Pantanos de Centla is one of the most extensive and ecologically significant wetland systems in Mexico, located primarily in the state of Tabasco. This region encompasses a vast network of swamps, lagoons, rivers, and mangrove forests, making it a critical habitat for numerous species of flora and fauna.
The Pantanos de Centla Biosphere Reserve is situated at the confluence of the Usumacinta River and the Grijalva River, close to where they meet the Gulf of Mexico. Spanning over 302,706 hectares, it includes parts of the municipalities of Centla, Jonuta, and Macuspana. Its geographical coordinates are approximately 18.1333° N, 92.2500° W.
The reserve is known for its rich biodiversity:
Recognized for its ecological importance, Pantanos de Centla was declared a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve in 1992, highlighting its role in preserving biodiversity and providing ecosystem services such as water purification and flood control.
The area faces several challenges:
The region has been historically significant due to its location at the crossroads of ancient trade routes. The Mayan Civilization and other pre-Columbian cultures used the rivers for transport and trade. Today, local communities like the Chontal Mayans continue to live in and around the reserve, maintaining traditional lifestyles that are closely tied to the natural environment.
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