Sapais de Castro Marim. 08/05/96; Regiao Algarve; 2,235 ha; 37°12'N 007°26'W. Nature Reserve, Special Protection Area EC Directive. A complex estuarine system of creeks, alluvial plains, saltmarshes and artificial salinas, subject to wide fluctuations in tidal range and salinity levels. The wetland is noteworthy for its halophytic saltmarsh communities and distinctive shrubby vegetation adapted to the extremes of a hot, dry and saline environment. The site supports several species of breeding waterbirds and a small heronry, and is crucial for large numbers of non-breeding flamingos Phoenicopterus ruber and spoonbills Platalea leucorodia. The wetland plays a crucial role in maintaining water tables, flood attenuation, and serves as a freshwater reservoir in one of the dryest areas of Portugal. Human activities include salt production, intensive agriculture, fish-farming, tourism, and recreation. The area holds historic settlements of Roman and Arabic occupation. Ramsar site no. 829. Most recent RIS information: 1993.