The Antilles is a chain of islands consisting of two major areas: the Greater and Lesser Antilies. The Greater Antilles includes the islands of Cuba, Hispaniola, Jamaica, and Puerto Rico. The Lesser Antilles consists of smaller islands to the southeast including the Leeward and Windward Islands.
Located near the equator, the Antilles is a tropical region where rainfall and humidity are prominent conditions. May and June are the only months that are considered dry. Because of the mountainous areas, rain falls primarily on the north and east sides. This difference in topography and climate accounts for the varying environment ranging from rainforest to semi-arid land.
The temperature does not fluctuate significantly between seasons. From December to March the average temperature is 77 degrees Fahrenheit. The summer months between August and November average 90 degrees Fahrenheit. Cyclones and monsoon-like weather conditions affect the Antilles area.
The
plant life within the Antilles consists of a vast display of exotic, tropical
flora. Due to overwhelming amounts of sunshine and rain and the fact that this
area is fertilized by volcanic ash, the Antilles land mass has developed into a
haven for plants. Native trees such as the Mangrove and the poisonous Manchion
Eel have inhabited the region for millions of years and thrived in this
seemingly euphoric climate. In addition to these trees there are plants such as the
Bougainvillea, the Torch Ginger and the Anthurim.
The
animal population has thrived because of the extensive plant life in the
region. The Lamentin and Rhinoceros Iguana are quite prevalent on land, while
Sea Horses and Drums (small marine fish) occupy the waters just off the coast
of the Antilles. Finally, a wide array of birds such as Yellow Bellies and
Sugar Birds are found in the tropical trees that dominate the land.
http://welcome.topuertorico.org/geogra.shtml
Former Link, http://www.re.nps.gov/seac/natset.htm
(February 2006)