Karso del Sur (19653)
Puerto Rico (to USA), Caribbean
Site overview
KBA status: confirmed
Global KBA criteria: A1a, B1
Year of last assessment: 2023
National site name: Karso del Sur
Central coordinates: Latitude: 17.9782, Longitude: -66.8451
System: terrestrial, freshwater
Area of KBA (km2): 81.62318
Protected area coverage (%): 55.09
KBA classification: Global
Legacy site: Yes
Site details
Site description: Karso del Sur is located in the south of Puerto Rico, between the municipalities of Guánica, Yauco and Guayanilla. This area is mostly a subtropical dry forest with xerophytic vegetation located on karst soil. The Guanica Dry Forest was recognized by the United Nations Organization as an International Biosphere Reserve. It is also a marine site that includes several keys where various species of seabirds nest. The main threats are: the loss and degradation of habitat, the development of infrastructure for industries and housing, invasive species, water pollution and human disturbances.
Rationale for qualifying as KBA: This site was formerly an AZE for Peltophryne lemur which now meets A1a and B1. An additional 20 birds and 11 plants meet legacy KBA criteria and are in need of reassessment.
Manageability of the site: This site was identified as a IBA/KBA in 2007 and as an AZE during the 2015-2018 AZE project. A manageability rationale is not available.
Delineation rationale: This site was identified as a IBA/KBA in 2007 and as an AZE during the 2015-2018 AZE project. A delineation rationale is not available.
Habitats
| IUCN Habitat | Coverage % | Habitat detail |
|---|---|---|
| Marine Neritic | 30 | |
| Marine Coastal/Supratidal | 5 | |
| Shrubland | 30 | |
| Forest | 30 | |
| Introduced Vegetation | 5 |