HOLBOX, Q. Roo — In order to curb illegal construction and mangrove logging on Isla Holbox, members of the Environmental Gendarmerie carried out the first patrols in support of the National Commission on Protected Natural Areas (Conanp).
After receiving training and drawing up a strategic plan with park rangers, Federal Police elements are collaborating to try to reduce and prevent environmental crime.
Holbox, which in the Mayan language means “black hole”, is part of the Protected Area of Flora and Fauna Yum Balam, where you can find protected species such as pink flamingos (Phoenicopterus ruber), white pelican (Pelecanus erythrorhynchos), and eagle fisherman (Pandion halaieuts), as well as three mangrove varieties and the Chit, Nakax and Ciricote palms.
Likewise, the so-called big island of Holbox has to the north a stretch of 24 kilometers of beach where four species of sea turtles nest, mainly the Carey (Eretmochelys imbricata).
It has a tropical climate, which allows it to develop diverse tourist activities, fishing and in smaller scale the artisan production. The Laguna de Yalahau or Conil, serves as habitat for many marine species such as dolphins, manatees and crocodiles.
Likewise, this ecosystem serves as a breeding, birth and development site for commercially important fishery species, which are fundamental to the local economy and development.
Source: excelsior.com.mx