Thermal Zones, Climate and Eco-systems

Introduction:

By traveling around the state of Oaxaca, you will introduce yourself to the beautiful diversity of our planet. You will experience over five distinct climate regions. The climate in each region influences what can grow in that region and determines how the people support their communities using different resources. In Oaxaca you will find different eco-systems including: mangrove swamps, pine and grove forests, arid beaches, thick sub-tropical jungles, volcanoes and high desert.

What makes this environment special or different?:

Part of what causes this amazing diversity are the thermal zones in the area. There is one active volcano called Volcan Humo Grande and many inactive volcanoes that create beautiful peaks and often separate one climate region from another.

What parts of this environment help people to live here?:

The diversity of the climate and landscapes are supported by an intricate system of rivers coming down from the peaks where they receive the most rainfall. Access to water is essential for people to live here and to produce crops for their community. Many of these crops have become famous around the world but Oaxaca has an impressive variety of others that remain unfamiliar to people outside of the villages that grow them.

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