Laguna de Bacalar. 03/02/03. Gracias a Dios. 7,394 ha. 15°08'N, 85°10'W. A marine-coastal wetland on the Caribbean coast characterized by broad-leaf forest, swamps, and mangrove forest. The areas adjacent to the lagoons are dominated by mangroves, characterized by red mangrove (Rhizophora mangle), white mangrove (Languncularia racemosa), and buttonwood (Conocarpus erectus). The site's rich fauna includes endangered species like the Caribbean manatee (Trichechus manatus), uncommon birds such as the jabirú (Jabiru mycteria) and fish characteristic to this type of ecosystem, including schoolmaster snapper (Lutjanus apodus) and horse-eye jack (Caranx latus). The site is invaluable in providing flood control, sedimentation capture, and stabilization of the reflux between the sea and the lagoon, which is fed by the Sico Tinto o Negro river. Economic activity by small populations in the area, including agriculture, deforestation and illegal fishing remain as threats. However, government and non-governmental organizations remain active in promoting sustainable fishing practices and appropriate micro-basin management. Ramsar site no. 1254.Most recent RIS information: 2001.