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The summit, isolated for millions of years, is a fascinating
place to study the evolution of plants. Of the 2,000 species
that have been found, a staggering 50% are endemic to this
region, and many are only found on one peak. The clouds
that almost permanently engulf the summits have led to them
being called a 'rain desert', as the washing action of the
rain coupled with high levels of radiation from the sun
mean that plants have had to develop unusual mechanisms
to survive.
This is the only place, for example, where carnivorous
bromeliads have been found. It is also one of the few remaining
places on earth where 100% of the species are native, offering
unrivalled opportunities for study.
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