Rocky seabeds of Cabo de Palos–Islas Hormigas

Environmental conditions

In coastal rocky seabeds, penetrating light, tides, nutrients and the substrate influence the variety of environments. These seabeds support diverse groups, including algae, sponges, cnidarians, molluscs, crustaceans and echinoderms. This is a general description of coastal rocky habitat.

Distribution and scope

The Cabo de Palos–Islas Hormigas marine reserve lies off the Murcia coast. It covers 1,931 hectares, and its fully protected zone surrounds the Las Hormigas islets, where depths exceed 50 metres.

Structure

Rock, sand and Posidonia oceanica meadows alternate within this reserve. The seabed is not uniform: varied relief and contributions from water masses arriving from elsewhere create different environments and contribute to biological richness. Seagrass meadows and rocky seabeds are distinct components of this mosaic.

Seasonal changes

Temperature and salinity are influenced by the seasons and Atlantic waters arriving through the Strait. The area is also a passage zone for pelagic fish: amberjacks visit in summer.

Conservation

The area is protected as a marine reserve of fisheries interest, with a fully protected zone around Las Hormigas. This zoning distinguishes the protected core from the rest of the reserve.