Belizean reef mangroves
The Belizean reef mangroves ecoregion covers the mangrove habitats along the islands and cayes of the Belize Barrier Reef. This ecoregion is distinct from the mainland Belizean Coast mangroves ecoregion, and may be considered a sub-unit of the overall Mesoamerican Gulf-Caribbean mangroves ecoregion.
Location and description
The mangrove habitats of this ecoregion are associated with the islands along the 220 km Belize barrier reef, stretching from the Mexico border south; the ecoregion also extends across three coral atolls, sea grass beds and some coastal lagoons.Climate
The climate of the ecoregion is Tropical savanna climate - dry winter. This climate is characterized by relatively even temperatures throughout the year, and a pronounced dry season. The driest month has less than of precipitation, and is drier than the average month.Flora and fauna
The most common mangrove tree species in this ecoregion is the red mangrove, with some white mangrove, and coconut palms.Mammals of conservation interest include the vulnerable West Indian manatee, the endangered green sea turtle, the critically endangered hawksbill sea turtle, the vulnerable loggerhead sea turtle, and the vulnerable American crocodile. The ecoregion supports significant bird colonies, including the red-footed booby, brown booby, and the brown noddy.