There are 78 municipalities (municipios, singular – municipio), which are the 2 nd order administrative divisions in Puerto Rico. Puerto Rico (officially, the Commonwealth of Puerto Rico) has no first- order administrative divisions as defined by the US Government. Furthermore, the Puerto Rico Trench, some 70 miles directly to the north, is the largest and the deepest trench in the Atlantic Ocean at 27,600ft (8,400m). Mona Island, located between Puerto Rico and the Dominican Republic, is a natural reserve known for its unique flora and fauna. The most significant are Vieques and Culebra, both to the east of the main island. Regarding the islands, beyond the main island of Puerto Rico, the archipelago includes several smaller islands and cays. The largest of these is Lago de Guajataca in the western region. There are no natural lakes in Puerto Rico however, artificial lakes have been created due to dam construction for hydroelectric power and water supply. In contrast, the rivers on the southern side are generally short, swift and less navigable. The rivers on the northern side are typically long, wide and slow-moving, providing vital water supplies to major metropolitan areas. More than 50 rivers originate from the mountainous interior, the most significant being the Rio de la Plata, the Rio Grande de Loíza, and the Rio Grande de Añasco. Water bodies in Puerto Rico include numerous rivers, lakes, and the surrounding oceanic bodies. The region is home to the Rio Camuy Cave Park, one of the largest cave networks in the world. It extends from the western to the northeastern part of the island, characterized by its limestone formations, sinkholes, caverns, and mogotes - rounded hills with steep sides. The northern karst region is a unique geographical feature of Puerto Rico. Conversely, the northern coastal plain experiences a more humid climate, suitable for various crops, including coffee, tobacco, and fruits. It supports many crops, such as sugarcane, and fruit cultivation. The southern coastal plain, also known as the Ponce-Patillas alluvial plain, is notable for its dry climate and flat terrain. The coastal plains surround the mountainous region, with the most extensive plains found in the north and south. This region is characterized by steep slopes, dense vegetation, and rich soil, making it a major center for coffee production. The most notable peak is Cerro de Punta, standing at 4,390 feet (1,340 meters). Its peaks, some reaching an elevation of more than 4,000 feet (1,200 meters), are the highest points in the territory. The mountainous interior of Puerto Rico, also known as "La Cordillera Central," bisects the main island from east to west. La Cordillera Central - The Mountain Interior Puerto Rico is divisible into three main geographical regions: the mountainous interior, the coastal plains, and the northern karst area. The island occupies a total area of about 3,435 square miles (9,000 square kilometers), which includes the main island and a group of smaller islands, collectively known as the Spanish Virgin Islands. Puerto Rico, a Caribbean island and unincorporated territory of the United States, borders the Atlantic Ocean to the north and the Caribbean Sea to the south.
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