| Conservation |
The islands of Trinidad and Tobago support a rich diversity of flora, fauna, and sea life, including extensive coral reefs. Despite some recent high levels of deforestation, 60 per cent of the land area remains forests or swamp, and the 1,538-hectare Arena Reserve, which has been successfully managed since 1927, is one of the few examples of sustainable forestry projects in the world. Growth in tourism has led to some localized damage, including the release of sewage from hotels. Pollution from agricultural run-off and passing oil tankers is causing problems as well.
The following information is to be sought:
- Status of knowledge of the freshwater fauna;
- Existence of conservation plans;
- Information on major aquatic habitats or sites within the country;
- Current major threats to species;
- Future potential threats to species;
- Contact(s) for further information. |
| Geography and Climate |
The republic of Trinidad and Tobago comprises the southernmost of the Caribbean Islands, namely Trinidad, Tobago, and adjacent islets. Trinidad lies north of and opposite the mouth of the Orinoco and is separated from the South American coast by the Gulf of Paria. Trinidad and Tobago lie north of Venezuela and south of Grenada.
Trinidad is traversed roughly from east to west by three ranges of hills. The highest point, El Cerro del Aripo, is 940 m above sea level. The north coast is rocky, the south coast is steep, and the east coast is exposed to heavy surf. The island of Tobago is of volcanic origin and is, in fact, a single mountain mass that reaches an elevation of about 550 m above sea level at its summit.
The climate is tropical, with a rainy season from June to December.
Ref. Microsoft, 1996 |