The park hosts an incredibly diverse marine ecosystem with over 136 species of fish, including groupers, snappers, and parrotfish. Sea turtles, particularly green and hawksbill turtles, use the islands as nesting sites. The area is also an important breeding ground for several species of seabirds, including frigate birds, brown pelicans, and masked boobies. Marine mammals such as dolphins are frequently spotted in the waters around the reef. The reef itself is home to numerous invertebrates, including various species of coral, sea urchins, starfish, and mollusks.
The vegetation on the coral islands is primarily composed of hardy coastal species adapted to the harsh marine environment. Key plant species include beach morning glory (Ipomoea pes-caprae), sea purslane (Sesuvium portulacastrum), and various grasses tolerant to salt spray. Mangroves are notably absent due to the islands' elevation and composition. The underwater flora includes various species of seagrass in the lagoon areas and numerous species of algae that play crucial roles in the reef ecosystem. The reef itself features extensive colonies of different coral species.
Arrecife Alacranes is Mexico's largest coral reef structure, located approximately 100 kilometers (62 miles) north of Progreso, Yucatán. The reef complex consists of five small coral islands (cayos) arranged in an oval shape, covering an area of about 333.7 square kilometers. The reef structure sits atop a submarine plateau and represents the emergence of a coral platform that began forming approximately 15,000 years ago. The islands are composed of coral fragments, shells, and sand, with the highest point reaching only about 2 meters above sea level.
The Alacranes Reef was first documented by Spanish explorers in the 16th century and has long been known to sailors as a hazardous area for navigation, with numerous shipwrecks dating back centuries. The name 'Alacranes' (meaning scorpions in Spanish) was given due to the reef's curved shape resembling a scorpion's tail. The area was designated as a National Park in 1994 to protect its unique marine ecosystem. Throughout history, the reef has served as a critical navigation point for maritime trade routes and has been the subject of various scientific studies since the early 20th century.
The park's most distinctive features include its five coral islands: Pérez, Pájaros, Chica, Desterrada, and Desertora. Pérez Island houses a lighthouse and basic facilities for visitors and researchers. The crystal-clear waters offer exceptional visibility for snorkeling and diving, with numerous shipwrecks serving as artificial reefs. The park is renowned for its pristine coral formations, including extensive barrier reefs, patch reefs, and coral gardens. The area's isolation has helped preserve its natural beauty and ecological significance, making it one of the most important marine protected areas in the Gulf of Mexico.
Arrecife Alacranes experiences a tropical climate with two distinct seasons: a dry season from November to April and a rainy season from May to October. Average temperatures range from 24°C to 28°C (75-82°F) throughout the year. The water temperature remains pleasant at around 26°C (79°F). The area can be affected by tropical storms and hurricanes during the Atlantic hurricane season (June to November), with September and October being the most active months. Visitors should check weather conditions before planning their trip, as access to the reef may be restricted during adverse weather.
Mexico
22.3830°, -89.6830°
1994
333.7
Arrecife Alacranes is the largest coral reef in the southern Gulf of Mexico. The park includes five small coral islands and rich marine biodiversity. It is an important nesting site for sea turtles and seabirds.