Etang de Palo. 15/09/08; Corse; 212 ha. 41°57'N 009°24'E. SPA, ZNIEFF (Zone Naturelle d'Intérêt Ecologique, Faunistique et Floristique). A very well preserved natural freshwater lagoon on the east coast of Corsica, temporarily connected with the sea through a seminatural narrow channel that gets timely opened to regulate the concentration of nutrients, thus avoiding eutrophication events. The lagoon is the fourth largest on the island; with its sandy beaches and surrounding vegetation, it constitutes an important ecosystem for its ecological, faunistic and floristic values. It hosts rare plant species such as Kosteletkya pentacarpos and supports five protected bat species, including Barbastella barbastellus, Miniopterus schreibersii, Myotis capaccinii,and Myotis emarginatus. The site has high hydrological value in helping the recharge of the aquifer, slowing down the water flow into the sea, and thus also reducing erosion phenomena. Agriculture and aquaculture are the main activities practiced in the surrounding area. Ramsar site no. 1829. Most recent RIS information: 2008.