Atol das Rocas Biological Reserve

The reserve encompasses an atoll formed by coralline algae, featuring two small islands within its elliptical lagoon: Lighthouse Island and Cemetery Island.

The Brazilian government established this protected area in 1979 to preserve marine ecosystems and provide sanctuary for nesting sea turtles and seabirds.

Scientists conduct research programs in the reserve to study marine biodiversity, focusing on endemic species of mollusks, sponges, and coral formations.

The reserve maintains strict protection measures, permitting only authorized research activities while prohibiting tourism to safeguard its ecological systems.

This location contains the sole atoll in the South Atlantic Ocean, supporting 150,000 tropical seabirds and serving as a primary breeding site for endangered turtles.

Location: Rio Grande do Norte

Inception: 1979

Part of: Brazilian Atlantic Islands: Fernando de Noronha and Atol das Rocas Reserves

GPS coordinates: -3.86389,-33.81333

Latest update: March 3, 2025 16:43