Tropical forest conservation and estuarine ecology

Basic ecological characteristics of a tropical estuary (Tortuguero, Costa Rica) are reviewed with special emphasis on the seasonal (wet season-dry season) variability of abiotic and related biotic parameters. The relationship of estuarine dynamics to the general character of the watershed are discussed, and a proposal to protect the remaining coastal forest cover of the Tortuguero watershed is offered. It is argued that the well-being of tropical estuaries is determined by the conservation of tropical forests.