A paradise of Atlantic reefs
The most representative Atlantic reefs are found, without a doubt, in the Caribbean Sea, along its coasts and islands. This sea is home to some of the most extensive and diverse reef systems in the Atlantic Ocean.
The large number of fish species found exclusively in the Caribbean reveals its biogeographic isolation, which has favored the evolution of a unique marine fauna.
The Antilles and the world of reefs
An archipelago key to biodiversity
The Caribbean islands, also known as the Antilles, extend over approximately:
- 2,960 km from east to west
- 1,440 km from north to south
This vast island arc creates ideal conditions for the development of large coral reefs, which act as true refuges of biodiversity.
Underwater coral mountains
Reefs that grow toward the open sea
The reefs of the Caribbean rise up like true underwater mountains above the seabed. Although they don’t usually reach the surface, they preferentially grow toward the open sea, where they find better conditions of light, currents and nutrient supply.
These coral structures create complex underwater landscapes that are home to a great diversity of tropical fish, brightly colored invertebrates and highly productive ecosystems.
An ecosystem of great value and fragility
The reefs of the Caribbean Sea are among the richest ecosystems on the planet, but also among the most fragile and threatened by climate change, pollution and human pressure.
Preserving these reefs is essential to protecting marine biodiversity and ensuring the future of tropical seas.
