Education Resources on the Science and Culture of Belize
Zoology
If you are interested in marine biology, you have probably spent time on the coral reefs of coastal Belize. But did you know that these ecosystems, considered by scientists to be the rain forests of the oceans, are under threat from an invasive species known as the lionfish? The article below explores the science of the lionfish invasion of Belize.
Most of us will never get a chance to see a big cat in the wild. In North America, most of the big cats have gone extinct, or been driven into remote areas. While there are still jaguars in Belize, they are facing some of the same challenges as their North American cousins. The article below explores some of the facts regarding jaguars and the efforts that are being made to understand and protect these wonderful creatures.
Almost any trip to the rainforests of Belize may will result in you discovering something new. Sometimes, however, there is a chance to discover something previously unknown in the scientific community. On one of our recent trips we had a chance to observe a birdwing grasshopper, a species that hot previously been known to inhabit the country. The article below provides some background on this discovery and some of the biology behind these large insects.
If you are traveling to any of the rivers along the coast of Belize, you may get a chance to see a manatee. These gentle giants, threatened in many parts of the world, have found sanctuary in the coastal areas. Read more about manatees in our article below.
Anderson Lagoon is not only a great vacation destination, it is also an opportunity to see one of nature’s light shows, called bioluminescence. In this article, we explore some of the science behind bioluminescence and the organisms involved in producing their own light.
While the Tapir may be an odd-looking animal, it plays an important role in the ecology and culture of Belize. Learn more about the largest mammal in central America.
If you spend any time at all in the rainforests of Central America, you quickly become familiar with the sounds of the howler monkey. In this article, we explore some of the facts about howler monkeys, and some of the reasons why these animals are endangered.
Another common sighting in the forests of Belize are the spider monkeys. While not as loud as the howler monkey, these playful primates are often seen in the Cayo district. Learn more about spider monkeys in the article below:
The whale shark is the largest fish in the ocean. Despite its enormous size, this creature is a docile filter feeder that may be frequently seen off the coast of Belize. Learn more about this wonderful creature in the article below:
Botany
Where does the vanilla in your kitchen come from? Would you believe a small orchid native to the rainforests of Belize? Learn more about this interesting plant in the article below:
Belize is home to over 300 different species of orchids and the Belize Botanical Gardens, on the Cave’s Branch resort property, is the center of scientific research and conservation in Belize for these beautiful plants. Below is an article on orchid evolution, and the black orchid – the national flower of Belize.
Water Quality Monitoring
Our resources on water quality monitoring on the Sibun River in Belize
Culture of Belize
The cacao plant is more than just the source of chocolate. To the Mayans, it provided a special spiritual connection to their gods. Read more about the cultural importance of the cacao plant below.
The sound of the Garifuna’s drums are a popular part of any trip to southern Belize. Read more below about the unique culture and origins of these people.
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last updated: February 2018