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Mexico possesses enormous natural diversity of its biota. 

 Because of this diversity, the country is especially 

 vulnerable to damage from non- indigenous species of a wide 

 variety. The great north/south distances, combined with 

 diverse topography, produces a landscape of enormous 

 complexity. East /west transects are equally diverse , 

 characteristics that places Mexico among the five most 

 diverse areas of the world. Whereas countries of higher 

 latitudes are less vulnerable to tropical and subtropical 

 organisms, Mexico should be more susceptible given its 

 diversity. Pests have demonstrated their ability to move 

 from the northern to the southern hemisphere or the reverse 

 so the equator offers only slight protection from such 

 movements . 



It would seen prudent for Mexico to examine the potential 

 risks and benefits before logs are brought into the country. 

 Risk assessments based upon careful biogeographical analysis 

 of the exporting country and the likely threats that might 

 result to the native Mexican flora and fauna. Risk 

 assessments are not only needed but should be mandatory 

 before any log imports are brought into the country. Careful 

 analysis given by experts will play an important role in 

 evaluating the potential risks of importing raw logs from 

 any part of the world. Further, it would seem especially 

 prudent to refrain from bringing in raw wood, especially raw 

 logs, until the export countries have the technology in 



