Texto: Jeane Brennan
The Terraba-Sierpe Mangroves, the Nurseries of the Sea
The erraba-Sierpe Mangroves forest, with its massive maze and the intertwining of trees and roots, is considered a critical component that helps subdue tidal surges, reduce erosion, provide opportunities for recreation, and serve as nurseries for fisheries. These incredible plants, with their gnarly roots, have evolved to survive in low-oxygen, salty water.
The unique ecosystem of the mangroves within the intricate mesh of mangrove roots provides a healthy respite for organisms such as algae, barnacles, shellfish, sponges, and mangrove crabs, all of which begin their lives in the mangrove forest.
The mangroves provide nourishment and protection to these fisheries and also a place to grow to a size that will enable them to compete with other sea creatures.
Not only is the mangrove forest conducive to the continuation and development of sea life, but the Terraba-Sierpe Mangrove Forest also attracts and is home to a multitude of birds, mammals, and reptiles.
Birdwatchers, photographers, fishermen, and those who catch and sell shellfish to restaurants embrace the opportunity to live, learn, and love the mangrove forest.

Due to factors such as development, unsustainable farming, and lack of concern, the destruction of mangrove forests worldwide is becoming an ecological problem with economic consequences.
However, in Sierpe, many business and eco-tour companies offer opportunities to explore the now-protected Terraba-Sierpe Mangroves Forest. Knowledgeable tour guides and captains take visitors from around the world into this mangrove forest every day. Sierpe is a simple, tranquil Costa Rican village. A benefit of participating in a mangrove forest tour is leaving the charming Sierpe Riverfront on an eco-tour boat and then enjoying a most beautiful ride down the Sierpe River.
Costa Rica is indeed a land of enchantment.


