Category: Geography > Coral
Beneath the turquoise waters of the Caribbean Sea lies the world's second-largest barrier reef system, known as the Mesoamerican Barrier Reef. Stretching over 1,000 kilometers along the coasts of Mexico, Belize, Guatemala, and Honduras, this stunning underwater feature is not only a habitat for diverse marine life but also plays a vital role in coastal protection against storms and erosion. The reef supports an array of ecosystems, including mangroves and seagrasses, which are critical for the survival of many species. Interestingly, the Mesoamerican Barrier Reef is continually growing and evolving, with the corals adapting to changing ocean temperatures and conditions, making it a focal point for both conservation efforts and marine research in the face of climate change.