Abstract
The peat deposits of Costa Rica are better developed in the alluvial plains of the atlantic coast (tras-arc basin) and along the mountain systems. The peat swamps along the atlantic coastal plain display a morphology analogous lo the back barrier or in irregular shapes which are associated with flooded areas of meandric rivers. Locally, peat thickness, are relatively continuous from 0.5 m to 15 m with calorific values varying from 2975 to 4695 kcal/kg (dry basis) and low in sulfur.
The Yolilla (Raphia) palm fragments are the main plant component of the atlantic coast peat deposits. The inorganic components originated in the magmatic arc to the south, which acted as the source for the volcanic sediments.
Peats along the small intra-arc basin (Talamaca range) are found in the higher valley elevations. These types of the peat deposits have not been well developed and have irregular cross-sections. Cold climate, the high precipitation, poor drainage and lack of inorganic sedimentation, inhibit the decomposition of organic matter and produce a low sulfur and ash peat, with a relatively high calorifle value.
In this enviroment, the vegetation is that of tropical cloud forest with extensive open areas containing herbaceous vegetation such as sedges, ferns, peat moss (Sphagnum) and heaths.