As a matter of fact, the gulf contains all the elements needed for an optimal bioluminescence activity. As many rivers of Osa and Golfito pour out freshwater into this tropical fjord, it reduces considerably the ratio of saltwater making it favorable for living organisms including an incredible array of rare marine species. The proximity to the equator and the calm of the water surface for microscopic marine organisms to liberate their eggs are excellent conditions for the proliferation of these ocean creatures.

The light emission phenomenon occurs after dark, and the best conditions to appreciate a maximum of plankton and other marine life sparkling are five days after the full moon on a cloudy, but none-raining night, far away from any light sources during the dry season (January to April). When the water is agitated, the microorganisms emit a glow making the ocean seems fluorescent at night.

• Shrimps
• Mollusks
• Barnacles
• Oysters
• Mussels
• Worms
• Snails
• Shellfish
• Crabs
• Jellyfish
• Tarpon
• Sea bass
• Baby sharks
• Barracudas
• Jacks
• Sponges
• Snakes
• Crocodiles
• Birds
• Monkeys
• Honeybees
• Bats
• Juvenile snappers

• Red mangrove (Rhizophora mangle

• Red mangrove (Rhizophora racemosa), (Rhizophora harrison),
• tea mangrove (Pelliciera rhizophorea),
• black mangrove (Avicennia germinans)
• white mangrove (Langucularia racemose)
• buttonwood or Button mangrove (Conocarpus erectus)
• Out of these seven types of mangroves, the most dominants are the red, black and white mangroves.

Biodiversity. Provide a nutrient-rich breeding ground and nesting habitats for a large variety of marine species and other wildlife.

Livelihoods. Natural resources for communities who depend on these essential ecosystems.

Shoreline protection. Robust mangroves protect the coast from destructive storm and strong winds, surge, and floods. They help prevent erosion by stabilizing sediments with their dense tangled root systems acting as a natural barrier for coastal communities.

Water filter. Maintain water quality and clarity, filtering pollutants and trapping sediments originating from land, preventing contamination and protecting habitats such as coral reefs and seagrass beds.

Carbon storage. Carbon dioxide is absorbed and stored by mangrove forests easier than it is in a mature tropical forest.

Medicinal. Extracts and chemicals identified from mangroves are mainly used in bush medicine, insecticides and pesticides.

Economical. Exploited for firewood, charcoal, construction of dwellings, furniture, boats and fishing gear, tannins for dyeing and leather production are some traditional uses of the mangroves.

Sustainable development. Ecotourism in healthy mangrove without compromising coastal ecosystems benefits community dwellers.