Flora and Fauna of Costa Rica: A Biodiversity Hotspot

Costa Rica's "rich coast" lives up to its name with extraordinary biodiversity across rainforests, cloud forests, and coastal ecosystems.

Flora

• Rainforest trees: Mahogany, balsa, cedar, rosewood, Guanacaste (national tree).
• Epiphytes & bromeliads: Orchids, bromeliads absorbing moisture from air.
• Ferns & mosses: Lush forest floor cover.
• Heliconias: "Lobster claws" with vibrant bracts.
• Coffee & bananas: Major export crops (Arabica coffee, banana plantations).

Fauna

• Mammals: Three-toed sloth, capuchin & howler monkeys, Baird's tapir, jaguar.
• Birds (950+ species): Resplendent quetzal, scarlet/great green macaws, toucans, hummingbirds, tanagers.
• Reptiles/amphibians: Snakes, lizards, poison dart frogs, salamanders.
• Marine life: Coral reefs, dolphins, humpback whales, sea turtles, manta rays, diverse fish.
• Invertebrates: Vast insect, spider diversity supporting ecological balance.

This richness makes Costa Rica a global conservation priority and ecotourism leader.