Etang des Salines
Etang des Salines
- Country:
- France (outre-mer)
- Site number:
- 1830
- Area:
- 207.0 ha
- Designation date:
- 15-09-2008
- Coordinates:
- 14°24'20"N 60°52'31"W
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This coastal lagoon is in the south of Martinique in the Lesser Antilles archipelago, at the limit of the Saint Lucia Channel. The waters entering the lagoon from the Atlantic Ocean and Caribbean Sea create particular ecological characteristics which favour diversified and rich aquatic populations. The Site is the last stop for many birds coming from North America before crossing the Saint Lucia Channel. Mangroves provide feeding ground for many invertebrates and other marine species, including the endangered American eel (Anguilla rostrata) and the vulnerable Mozambique tilapia (Oreochromis mossambicus). The area used to be important for local livelihoods thanks to its salt production and exploitation between the 18th and 20th centuries, which gave the lagoon its name. Beyond several threats related to run-off of pesticide and other pollutants, tourism-related developments are becoming a problem as the Site includes one of the most popular beaches in Martinique. A restoration plan is being prepared as of 2023.
- Classement - Presqu'île de Sainte Anne
- Conservatoire du Littoral
- Other international designation
- FR1830RIS_2307_fr.pdf
- FR1830RISformer_150528.pdf
- FR1830_map230112.pdf