Dhaka, 06 February 2008 (IUCN) – The Ministry of Agro-Industry and Fisheries of Mauritius has designated Blue Bay Marine Park (353 hectares, 20°27'S 057°43'E) in the Grand Port district as its second Wetland of International Importance, as of 31 January 2008. As Assistant Advisor for Africa Evelyn Parh Moloko explains, based on the RIS information, this Marine Protected Area is a unique coastal wetland recognized for its exceptional underwater seascape with diverse marine fauna and flora, especially its coral diversity (38 coral species representing 28 genera and 15 families). The presence of mangroves, seagrass meadows, and macro algae contribute to the overall stability of the marine environment and make it a habitat for about 72 fish species and the endangered green turtle, as well as a nursing ground for juvenile marine species. This site adjoins the popular Blue Bay Beach, 5 metres away, which is widely used by the local community for recreational purposes, and tourism is also significant. Threats posed to the coral ecosystem by diving activities are controlled by allowing only certified divers to operate in the area. Management of Marine Protected Areas is ensured by the Fisheries and Marine Regulations of 2001, which make special provisions for this site. In addition, there is a steering committee for the management of the park drawn from most of the environment-related ministries (Agro-Industry, Environment, Tourism, Housing and Lands, etc.), and daily patrols are conducted to enforce the regulations. There are presently 158 Contracting Parties to the Convention, which have designated 1,718 Ramsar sites covering an area of 159,517,260 hectares.

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Notes to editors 

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