Bofedales in Lauca National Park
by James Brunker
Title
Bofedales in Lauca National Park
Artist
James Brunker
Medium
Photograph - Photograph
Description
Parinacota volcano (6330m / 20,765ft) is the highest peak in Lauca National Park in the far north of Chile close to the Bolivia border. The Park is also part of the Lauca Biosphere Reserve, recognised by UNESCO in 1981. The lake, Lake Chungara, was formed by a lava dam during a major eruption around 8,000 years ago.
Bofedales is the name given to a rare habitat only found in the bleak high altiplano regions of the Andes. They consist of large hard cushions of Oxychloe andina plants (often known as the Andean rush) and other species of grasses and mosses interspersed with shallow pools and rivulets. They support many bird species (especially wildfowl) and often attract larger animals as they are usually the only water source in otherwise dry valleys.
Photograph © James Brunker. Reproduction, transmission or publication in any form without written permission strictly prohibited.
Uploaded
October 16th, 2011
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