Andean Forest
These mountain ecosystems, located between 1,000 and 3,200 meters above sea level, are characterized by high rainfall and frequent fog. They were initially thought to occupy 3,400,000 hectares in Colombia, but recent estimates indicate a much larger extension of 9,726,600 hectares. Their altitudinal limits vary considerably, making precise delimitation difficult. They represent approximately 18% of Colombian territory.
Andean forests exhibit a rich biodiversity compared to other tropical forests, with 1,657 plant species, 479 bird species and 77 mammal species recorded. Their importance lies in their contribution to water supply, especially the 16 national natural parks that are home to cloud forests, which are fundamental for water regulation.
Currently, 63% of the Andean forests have been transformed, with approximately 27.4% of the forests in the National System of Protected Areas (Sinap) affected by transformation.
