Zona Marina Parque Nacional Machalilla. 07/09/90; Manabí; 14,430 ha; 01°00'S 080°45'W. National Park. A complex of shallow coastal waters, sandy beaches and off-shore islands fringed by coral reefs. The site includes the mouths of several seasonal rivers and streams and remnant dry tropical forest. Archaeologically interesting with evidence of civilizations dating from 3,000 B.C. to 1526 A.D. The area supports an important fishery, provides habitat for a breeding colony of seabirds, and nesting beaches for marine turtles. Human activities include subsistence agriculture, livestock raising, and tree harvesting for firewood and charcoal. Ramsar site no. 503. Most recent RIS information: 1997.