Belize has a very high level of terrestrial and aquatic biodiversity. Belize hosts more than 150 spp. of mammals, 540 spp. of birds, 151 spp. of amphibians and reptiles, nearly 600 spp. of freshwater and marine fishes, untold numbers of invertbrates and 3,408 spp. of vascular plants . The country is unique, not only in the total number of species present, but also in the vast array of ecotypes and their species richness. The Mesoamerican Barrier Reef System (MBRS), stretching the full length of Belize's coastline, is the second largest in the world. The diversity of corals and related reef dwellers as well as the its sheer size, has qualified this reef to be declared a World Heritage Site, in recognition of its rich biodiversity and consequent global importance. Belize also plays an integral part in the maintenance of the Mesoamerican Biological Corridor (MBC), comprised of a network of protected areas linked by biological habitat corridors, stretching from México to Panamá. This wealth of biological diversity, coupled with a rich cultural heritage has made Belize a very popular tourist destination, providing significant economic benefits for the nation.
Currently, BERDS has
7,055 species accounts (profiles) entered into the system, covering a wide variety of taxonomic, distributional and status/threats information. Use the links below to view individual 'species profiles' as well as species checklists for Belize. |
Login
