Sistema de Humedales de la Bahía de Bluefields. 08/11/01; Atlántico Sur; 86,501 ha; 11°55'N 083°45'W. Added to the Montreux Record, 15/01/07. Comprising a diversity of ecosystems from saline to freshwater, encompassing the "bay", which is in fact a coastal lagoon associated with the Río Escondido. The intertidal forested areas and mangroves form habitat and biological corridors for endangered larger animals, such as the jaguar (Pantera onca), Central American Tapir or "Danta" (Tapirus bairdii), the howling monkey Alouatta fusca, and ocelot Leopardus pardalis. The system is regenerating despite the devastation of Hurricane Joan in 1988. The site is extremely important for the artisanal fishing which forms the economic and cultural base of the ethnic groups in the area. Problems associated with population growth and pollution pose threats, though several communities have organized a group of communal park-wardens. Subject of a Ramsar Advisory Mission in December 2005 and added to the Montreux Record on 15/01/07. Ramsar site no. 1139. [Signs] Most recent RIS information: 2001.

Atlántico Sur