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Kenya's Ecosystems

Kenya's diverse ecosystems span from the Indian Ocean's coral reefs to the high-altitude forests of Mount Kenya. Each ecosystem supports unique wildlife communities and provides essential services for both biodiversity conservation and human wellbeing.

Kenya's Ecosystem Diversity

6
Major Ecosystems
580,000
km² Total Area
95%
Habitat Coverage
7,000+
Wildlife Species

Explore Kenya's Ecosystems

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Dominant

Savannah Ecosystem

480,000
km²
80%
Coverage
4,500+
Species

Kenya's dominant ecosystem featuring Acacia-Commiphora bushlands and grasslands. Home to the Big Five and supporting the largest wildlife populations.

Explore Savannah
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Coastal

Marine Ecosystem

230,000
km²
40%
EEZ
1,200+
Species

Pristine coral reefs, seagrass beds, and mangrove forests along Kenya's 536km coastline. Critical habitat for marine turtles, dolphins, and over 1,200 fish species.

Explore Marine
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Endemic

Forest Ecosystem

42,000
km²
7.2%
Coverage
900+
Species

Montane forests, coastal forests, and riverine woodlands supporting high levels of endemism. Critical watersheds providing water for 75% of Kenya's population.

Explore Forest
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Migratory

Wetlands Ecosystem

6,400
km²
1.1%
Coverage
600+
Species

Rift Valley lakes, coastal wetlands, and seasonal swamps. Essential stopover sites for millions of migratory birds and endemic cichlid fish species.

Explore Wetlands
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Arid

Desert & Semi-Arid

90,000
km²
15%
Coverage
800+
Species

Northern Kenya's arid and semi-arid lands supporting specialized wildlife adapted to harsh conditions. Home to Grevy's zebra, reticulated giraffe, and desert communities.

Coming Soon
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Alpine

Mountain Ecosystem

12,000
km²
2%
Coverage
400+
Species

High-altitude ecosystems on Mount Kenya, Aberdares, and other mountain ranges. Unique afro-alpine vegetation and endemic species adapted to extreme conditions.

Coming Soon

Ecosystem Biodiversity

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95
Mammal Species
🦅
1,100+
Bird Species
🐸
220+
Reptile & Amphibian Species
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6,500+
Plant Species

Conservation Priorities

Our ecosystem-based conservation approach focuses on protecting habitat connectivity, maintaining ecological processes, and ensuring sustainable resource use across all ecosystems.

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Habitat Connectivity

Maintaining wildlife corridors between protected areas

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Community Engagement

Involving local communities in ecosystem management

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Scientific Monitoring

Regular assessment of ecosystem health and biodiversity