Reserva de la Biosfera Archipiélago de Revillagigedo

Country:
Mexico
Site number:
1357
Area:
636,685.0 ha
Designation date:
02-02-2004
Coordinates:
18°49'59"N 112°46'59"W

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Overview

Reserva de la Biosfera Archipiélago de Revillagigedo. 02/02/04; Mexican Island Territory; 636,685 ha; 18°50'N 112°47'W. Reserva de la Biosfera. Nearly 400km offshore in the Pacific Ocean, this volcanic archipelago is home to a unique set of endemic flora and fauna as well as well-preserved terrestrial and marine ecosystems. Isla Socorro is the largest island, with the Evermann volcano peaking 1050 meters, followed by Clarión, San Benedicto and Roca Partida islands. Socorro presents an interesting array of vegetation following the altitudinal gradient, featuring coastal halophytes, shrubs of Dodonaea viscosa, Guettarda insularis, Croton masonii; forests of Figs Ficus cotinifolia, Bumelia socorroensis and Psidium galapageium. Ten endemic species and subspecies of birds have been recorded in Socorro; however, three of them, including the Soccorro Dove Zenaida graysoni are considered extinct in the wild (there are plans of reintroduction with several captive individuals in Germany). The site is well preserved and uninhabited, apart from some navy officers. Diving and fishing groups visit the islands regularly. Volcanic eruptions, hurricanes and fires pose risks to the islands' wildlife, but invasive species remain the main threat. The federal government funds a group of technicians to eradicate introduced sheep, pigs and rabbits. A management plan is in place. Ramsar site no. 1357. Most recent RIS information: 2004.

Administrative region

Colima

National legal designation

  • Reserva de la Biosfera

Last publication date:

02-02-2004

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Ramsar Information Sheet (RIS)