Laguna de Tacarigua National Park

Laguna de Tacarigua National Park Parque nacional Laguna de Tacarigua
IUCN category II (national park)
Location
Location	Venezuela
Coordinates	10°16′N 65°51′W / 10.267°N 65.850°W / 10.267; -65.850
Area	391 km2 (151 sq mi)
Established	1974 (1974)

The Laguna de Tacarigua National Park

To the south of the lagoon extends an area dominated by dry forests and to the north, a marine area of 20,700 ha. In total the park covers 39,100 ha. Approximately 4,000 ha of the park are covered by mangrove forests that grow on the banks of the lagoon and even form dense islands towards the center. The lagoon is fed by fresh water mainly from the Guapo River but also from other tributaries such as the Pirital, San Nicolás, San Ignacio and Chaguaramal streams. In its northwestern sector the lagoon communicates with the sea through a mouth. In times of severe drought in the Guapo River basin, the decrease in freshwater intake and the accumulation of sediments cause mouth filling, and consequently an increase in the salinity of the lagoon waters.

The park comprises three main ecosystems: a shallow brackish lagoon, a dry forest area and a sandy beach barrier or reef.

Gallery

See also

• List of national parks of Venezuela
• Canaima National Park

References