A special ecosystem in the Andes
The paramo (from the Spanish páramo, « plateau, moor ») is a neotropical highland biotipe found in the Andes Mountains between 3,000 and 4,000 meters above sea level. This ecosystem plays a key role in water production and distribution, capturing moisture from fog and rain to create streams, rivers and lakes. More than half of the world’s paramos are found in Colombia, and over 60% of the water consumed in the country comes directly from them.
Frailejon, a fragile plant fof the Paramo
The frailejon, also known as the « mountain sponge » because of its water-holding capacity, is a fragile plant that grows between 1 and 2.5 centimetres per year: it can take up to 100 years to reach its adult size! The expansion of agricultural land, mining and climate change represent a threat to these fragile ecosystems.
Because of its fragility and the demanding conditions required for its growth, it seemed impossible to reproduce this plant in a nursery in order to replant it in the paramo.
This was without counting on the hard work and passion of Moises Moreno, who succeeded in breeding what he affectionately calls « baby frailejones » and launched his project Adopta un frailejon ( « adopt a frailejon »). The aim of his association is to repopulate the paramo de la Oceta (near Mongui) in order to preserve this fabulous ecosystem.
Where can find the paramo in Colombia?
- Chingaza: accessible from Bogotá, Chingaza Park can be explored on a day trip.
- Mongui ( Boyaca): the La Oceta paramo can be explored on a day trek.
- Coffee region: the Los Nevados Park offers several hiking trails (one-day or multi-day).
- Cocuy: for the more adventurous looking for a multi-day trek.
- Southern Colombia: in the heart of Parc Puracé.
