Islas Marías Biosphere Reserve, Protected marine area near San Blas, Mexico.
Islas Marías Biosphere Reserve is a protected marine area off Mexico's western coast encompassing approximately 641,000 hectares of diverse ecosystems. The reserve includes dry forests, mangrove wetlands, coral reefs, and multiple ocean habitats that support complex marine life.
The archipelago housed the Islas Marías Federal Prison from 1905 until 2012, serving as an isolated penal facility for decades. Following the prison's closure, conservation initiatives began and the area was formally established as a biosphere reserve.
The Mexican government designated this archipelago as a preservation site, integrating environmental protection with scientific research and educational programs.
Entry to the reserve requires special permits and visitors must follow strict environmental protection guidelines at all times. Activities like snorkeling, kayaking, and wildlife observation are permitted when conducted responsibly within designated areas.
The reserve is home to 54 protected land and marine species, of which 19 are endemic and found nowhere else on Earth. This collection of rare species makes the area exceptionally valuable for global biodiversity conservation.
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