UNESCO/Toson-Khulstai Biosphere Reserve
North-East Tobago
General information
The North-East Tobago reserve is located in the South-East Caribbean Sea in Trinidad and Tobago. The reserve encompasses 83,488 hectares including a large marine and terrestrial area. Included in this reserve is one of the oldest legally protected tropical forrest, the Tobago Main Ridge Forest Reserve, created in 1776. 1,774 species are protected in this reserve with 83 on the IUCN red list, 41 endemic species, 13 EDGE criteria species, 48 international migratory(CMS) criteria species, and 120 CITES criteria species.Â
Detailed information
Key data
Year of nomination
2020
Country
Trinidad and Tobago
Total population
10130
Area
Surface
82,359.00 ha
Total terresterial area
15,114.00 ha
Total Marine area
672.00 ha
Location
Latitiude: 11.3139 - Longitude: -60.5683
Contact
Ecological Characteristics
The biospheres 19 distinct habitat typesishome to globally unique and endangered species. The avifauna is uniquely distinct. Two species of avifauna stand out in this region: the charismatic Trinidad Motmot (Momotusbahamensis), and the and the less conspicuousTobagogreenlet(Hylophilusinsularis).Both of thesespecies are endemic.Howeverthe highest faunal endemism is found among the herpetofauna which include three snakes, one lizard and four frogs. This reserve is home to one of the last remnants of a dry tropical forest in theCarribean. This reserve is no stranger to protection, theTobagoMain Ridge Forest Reserve is the oldest legally protected tropical forest. It has been legally protected since 1776.
Socio-Economics Characteristics
About 10,130 people live in this area. The inhabitants share a culturally, deeply rooted socioeconomic and spiritual relationship with the natural resources. Through folk stories, traditional medicines, and ceremonies the importance of this land can be shown. The 15 villages in the area are economically dependent on artisanal fishing, tourism, forestry and governmental employment (around 60%) in the administrative, public service or unemployment relief sectors.
