Scientists explore a hidden rainforest on top of a mountain



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Forests around the world are changing, thanks to changes brought about by climate and human activities. But recently, researchers have explored a unique tropical forest in Africa that has been virtually unaffected by human events and continues to maintain its primitive state.

Discovered by a biologist Julian Bayliss in 2012, the forest is at the top of Mount Lico in northern Mozambique. and protected by the high walls of the volcanic mountain. The mountain rises 700 meters above the surrounding plain. Because of this, the rainforest has been hidden there for centuries.

Julian Bayliss made the discovery using Google Earth. However, it took him about six years to visit and explore the place. Bayliss and his colleagues struggled to climb the forest.

Why explore a hidden rainforest? https://t.co/0uASdFUIdi pic.twitter.com/2e9uGvENjk – Phil Platts (@PJPlatts) June 29, 2018

The Mount Lico Forest amazed researchers with its species unique. Many of these species are named after the discoverer Bayliss, including Nadzikambia baylissi, a chameleon with prehensile tail. The recent expedition was the first to explore the undisturbed forest of Mount Lico

"The undisturbed forest is incredibly rare," said Dr. Simon Willbad. "That's why we climbed a cliff 125 meters high with a pickaxe."

Mozambique is known for its unspoilt forests, sitting on the top of the mountains. However, none of the mountains of northern Mozambique enjoys protection from the government or any organization. This is a disturbing trend for researchers.

"Overall, a football field worth a forest is lost every second, resulting in the disappearance of countless species." The removal of trees from mountain slopes also leads to soil erosion , floods during the rainy season and water shortages during the dry season. "

The Lico Rainforest is the second forest discovered by Julian Bayliss. The first was found in 2005 and is on Mount Mabu, a 1,700-meter mountain range located in the middle of a savannah.

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