Alacranes Reef National Park hosts diverse marine life in Mexico

Alacranes Reef National Park, located 140 kilometers from Puerto Progreso in the Yucatán Peninsula, is a protected natural area of global importance. Covering 333,768 hectares—more than twice the size of Mexico City—it contains the largest coral structure in the southern Gulf of Mexico.

The ecosystem is home to significant biological diversity, including 34 coral species, 136 varieties of fish, 24 shark species, and marine mammals such as dolphins and pilot whales. It serves as a habitat for four of the world’s seven sea turtle species: leatherback, hawksbill, loggerhead, and green sea turtles. Additionally, the park's five islands provide nesting grounds for at least 116 bird species, including the peregrine falcon and masked booby.

Beyond its ecological value, the reef is economically vital to hundreds of fishing families who rely on the harvesting and sale of lobster and grouper.