Montes Azules Biosphere Reserve

Montes Azules Biosphere Reserve is a protected natural area in Chiapas state of southern Mexico. The reserve protects 3312 km² of the Lacandon Jungle, a lowland tropical rainforest.

Montes Azules Biosphere Reserve
IUCN category VI (protected area with sustainable use of natural resources)[1]
Laguna Miramar in Montes Azules Biosphere Reserve
Location of Montes Azules Biosphere Reserve in Mexico
Location	Chiapas, Mexico
Coordinates	16°40′N 91°00′W[2]
Area	3,312 km2 (1,279 sq mi)
Designation	UNESCO-MAB Biosphere Reserve (international) biosphere reserve (national)
Designated	1979 (international) 2000 (national)
Administrator	National Commission of Natural Protected Areas

Geography

Montes Azules Biosphere reserve adjoins Lacan-Tun Biosphere Reserve on the east, and is bounded by the Lacantun River, a tributary of the Usumacinta, on the south.

Flora and fauna

The reserve contains 500 species of trees.^[2]

More than 390 species of birds have been recorded in the reserve, almost half of all known species in Mexico. There are 116 species of mammals present, including the white-lipped peccary (Tayassu pecari) and northern tamandua (Tamandua mexicana). Native reptiles include Morelet's crocodile (Crocodylus moreletii).^[2]

Conservation

Historically the forest was exploited for chicle and mahogany. The reserve is currently threatened by timber cutting and people setting fire to the forest to clear areas for cattle raising and farming.^[2]