Marine Species Isla Mujeres and Cancun
The east coast of the Yucatan peninsula Mexico, boasts some of the Caribbeans healthiest reefs. The reefs around Cancun and Island Mujeres are a popular diving destination and, if you’re heading to this region make sure to download a free copy of the UNAM species guide.
The guide, published by the Ecological Institute of UNAM has Fish, Sharks, Rays, Coral, Invertebrates, Marine Mammals, and Sea Grasses, with a section at the end covering Reptiles and Birds found in the region. In the area between Isla Mujeres and Cancun there are 32 documented species of soft corals, 33 species of hard corals, 170 species of fish and 16 species of marine mammals.
The species guide also features rules and regulation for the park and is intended not only as a species identification guide but also a guide for local fishermen and tour operators to better understand park regulations, and how they can actively protect and conserve the natural environment.
Some of the rules include using reef friendly sunscreen and using a floatation device about coral to avoid damaging the reef. The guide reminds people they should not feed fish, avoid kicking sand and be mindful to tie up boat instead of dropping an anchor.
You can download the free guide HERE.
