Mexico Rocks is a shallow patch reef complex located off the far northern tip of Ambergris Caye, in the Belizean Barrier Reef. The site consists of approximately 100 Holocene patch reefs, clustered on a ridge of Pleistocene limestone, and is composed predominantly of boulder corals (Montastrea annularis). The reef has accumulated in shallow (about 2.5 to 5 metres) water over the last 420 years, under static sea level conditions.
The Montastrea annularis patch corals that dominate here are unique to Ambergris Caye's northern lagoon and a rare occurrence in Belize; the only other such patch reefs in the country are located at Glover's Reef.[1] In addition, Acropora cervicornis occurs on the ridge's windward and leeward flanks.
The site was recommended for designation as a marine preserve in 1978, and is still under consideration.[1] It is seen as an important addition to the caye's ecotourism attractions,[1] being a popular snorkelling destination. The area is known for conch, banded shrimp, arrow crab, flounders, stingray, yellow tail snappers, and an assortment of butterfly and angelfish.
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