Advertisement
6. Biodiversity Hotspot: Flora and Fauna
Apart from being a hotspot for biodiversity with an amazing range of plant and animal species, the East African Rift is important for human evolution. Many of the species found nowhere else on Earth find home in the many landscapes produced by the geology of the rift, from dense forests to open savannas and from high mountains to deep lakes.
Elephants, lions, gorillas, and many different bird species call the area home among some of Africa's most recognisable animals. One of the most amazing natural events on Earth, the Serengeti ecosystem—which spans the rift valley—is well-known for its yearly wildebeest migration. The Virunga range and other mountains produced by the volcanic activity of the rift offer sanctuary for threatened mountain gorillas.
Plant life-wise, the rift valley boasts a varied range of ecosystems ranging from rich alpine forests to acacia-dotted savannas. Many of the local plant species have developed special survival strategies to fit the various and occasionally hostile surroundings. Apart from its inherent worth, this great diversity supports local businesses by means of tourism and sustainable resource management and offers vital ecological services.
