Marine De La Réunion, Nature reserve on western coast of Reunion Island, France
The marine reserve protects sections of the western coastline of Reunion Island across several coastal towns, safeguarding shallow reefs and deeper waters. The lagoons and adjacent zones support numerous fish species and invertebrates adapted to tropical reef habitats.
The reserve was established in 2007 to protect coral ecosystems from overfishing and other human activities threatening the reefs. This legal protection followed years of scientific observation that revealed the ecological importance of the western coast.
Local fishing communities maintain traditional practices in harmony with protection efforts, shaping daily life in the coastal villages nearby. The lagoon remains central to how residents interact with the sea and understand their relationship to it.
Visitors can explore the coastal lagoons with snorkels and masks, following marked routes and observation points to see marine life up close. It is best to check local conditions and any access restrictions before going, as some zones limit human activity.
Two protected zones within the reserve are completely closed to human entry, allowing coral reefs to recover without disturbance. These no-take areas have demonstrated how effective natural regeneration can be when human activity is completely removed.
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