| Keyword | Description |
|---|---|
| Biodiversity | The variety of plant and animal life in a particular habitat. |
| Apiculture | The practice of beekeeping for honey production and pollination. |
| Xerophytic | Plants that are adapted to survive in dry environments. |
Mexico is celebrated as one of the world’s most biodiverse countries, ranking fourth globally. Despite covering only 1.5% of the Earth’s surface, it hosts over 10% of all known species. This diversity extends to its bees, with nearly 2,000 species found across the nation, making it a hotspot for bee diversity.
About 72.6% of Mexico’s land is covered with plant life, including 138 million hectares of forest ecosystems. These forests are diverse, ranging from a scrublands (dry areas with thorny plants) to temperate and tropical rainforests. The xerophytic scrub is particularly abundant in Coahuila, while Durango is known for its extensive temperate forests.
Rainforests, which cover 21.9% of these ecosystems, are rich in biodiversity. They include different types such as dry tropics and humid tropical forests, primarily located in Chiapas. Mangroves, found in coastal areas, account for 0.7% of forest ecosystems and play a crucial role in coastal ecology.
The variety in ecosystems makes Mexico an ideal habitat for bees, crucial for pollination. Pollinators like bees contribute significantly to agriculture, with their global economic impact estimated at up to $577 billion annually. In Mexico, honeybees are used extensively for pollination, especially in states like Sinaloa and Coahuila.
In 2025, Mexico saw record apicultural production of 60,297 tons. Yucatán leads in production, followed by Chiapas and Jalisco. Unique honey varieties like mesquite and orange blossom are produced in different regions, each with distinct flavors. Mesquite honey, produced in northern Mexico, is known for its light color and mild taste.
Mexico is the ninth-largest honey exporter globally, with Germany as a major buyer. Consuming local honey supports beekeepers and the environment, highlighting the importance of biodiversity and sustainable practices.
Bridging words
These words sound similar in English and Spanish: Why not practice them now?
| English | Spanish |
|---|---|
| Biodiversity | Biodiversidad |
| Ecosystem | Ecosistema |
| Pollination | Polinización |
Time to discuss
- Why is biodiversity important for a country like Mexico?
- What role do bees play in global agriculture and ecosystems?
- How does consuming local honey benefit the environment and local economies?
Let’s Write
Answer the following questions in one paragraph
- Describe the different types of forest ecosystems found in Mexico.
- Explain why Mexico is a leading producer of honey in the world.
