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Bofedales (singular bofedal), known in some parts of Peru as oconales, are a type of
wetland found in the Andes. They are a feature in the land use and ecology of high
Andean ecosystems. They form in flat areas around ponds or streams and may be
permanent or seasonal, and they can be man made or natural. Bofedales are associated
with organic material in the soil and their green colour often contrasts with that of the
drier surrounding landscape.

They are found at elevations exceeding 3,800 metres (12,500 ft) above sea level.
Bofedales absorb the limited amount of water derived from snow, glacier meltwater
and rain showers, storing it in ground and slowly releasing it. Their vegetation is
dominated by cushion plants. Numerous animals including birds, mammals and
invertebrates occur in bofedales. They are used by humans, who have created new
such wetlands through irrigation, but human activities can also be a threat to these
ecosystems.