Tropical Eastern Pacific (TE)

The Tropical Eastern Pacific (TE) realm extends along the Pacific coast of the Americas from the tip of Baja California to northern Peru. It is a unique and dynamic region influenced by seasonal upwelling, which supports high levels of primary productivity. This realm is isolated from the Central Pacific by a vast stretch of deep, nutrient-poor water known as the Eastern Pacific Barrier. It includes oceanic island groups like the Galápagos, famous for their unique marine and terrestrial life. The coastal areas are characterized by mangroves, rocky reefs, and sandy beaches. The realm supports significant commercial fisheries for tuna and shrimp and is a critical habitat for sea turtles and cetaceans.