Cuba has more than 4,000 islets and keys in its archipelago. It is home to one of the largest coral reefs in the world

Most readers are familiar with the 90 miles that represent the distance between Cuba and Florida. But you might not know that Cuba has over 3,000 miles of coastline and more than 4,000 islets and keys in its archipelago. It is home to one of the largest coral reefs in the world. 

The Cuban archipelago boasts a magnificent marine biodiversity. It is home to various fish species as well as some endangered migratory species, such as marine sea turtles.  A combination of a lack of new coastal developments, low use of fertilizers, tight controls on commercial fishing, the establishment of protected areas and a smaller human footprint have meant that Cuba’s coasts are relatively much cleaner than others in the area and are a mecca for divers and snorkelers.

Over the past decades, many stakeholders such as the Cuban Center for Coastal Ecosystem Research, have been monitoring and protecting these areas using an integrative management approach that supports both the natural environment and local communities. 

…you might not know that Cuba has over 3,000 miles of coastline and more than 4,000 islets and keys in its archipelago.

The Ministry of Science, Technology and Environment has prioritized coral reef research but a lack of resources has been an ongoing challenge. Furthermore, a combination of climate change, pollution, overfishing, and sedimentation have contributed to the deterioration of parts of the coral reefs. 

Source: Startupcuba.tv