+44 Chile

Along of the cost of Mexican Caribbean lies a magnificent and complex reef system, which extends from the northern tip of the Yucatan Peninsula to the Bay Islands in Honduras. This natural wonder is the second largest barrier reef in the world and is called the Mesoamerican Barrier Reef.

Though they cover less than 1% of th earth surface, coral reefs shelter an incredible variety of life. Reefs are home of higher density of species thayn any other marine environmental.

For many coastal communities, healthy reefs are key to sustaining traditional fishing activities. Coral reefs also good for business: diving tours, fishing trips, hotels, restaurants and other establishments based near reefs provide jobs and are important income to local economies.

As the Mexican Caribbean coastline develops into a popular destination, unsustainable human activities are inflicting a great strain in its fragile reefs. Activities such as the destruction of mangroves and seagrass beds can increase sedimentation in near shore waters and coral reefs. The over-harvesting of kay marine spacies and destrcutive fishing practices can upset the delicade balance of reef life in the region.Touching, finning into, and standing on reefs damages corals. The release of waste water into the ocean is harmful to corals. In addition, fertilzers from golf courses and agriculture favor algal growth which can smother coral.

These activities further damage reefs already weakened by factors such as hurricanes and climate change.

How to Help
1. Do not step on, touch or harvest coral.
2. Avoid picking up and disturbing pieces of coral.
3. Do not stir up the sandy ocean floor.
4. Do not drop ancors onto coral reef.
5. Do not buy or sell coral, turtle or conch jewerly.
6. Do not spear fish.
7. Use biodegradable sun-block.
8. Help keep the beach and ocean clean.
9. Do not eat prohibited or out of seson fish or seafood.

¿Are you doing something to protect coral reefs in around the world?

From www.mexiconservacion.org

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