The Biosphere and

National Parks of the

Yucatan Peninsula and
the Mexican Caribbean
The Yucatan Peninsula and the Mexican Caribbean are home to a wealth of
biodiversity, with unique ecosystems and stunning natural beauty. In this
presentation, we will explore the biosphere and national parks that make this
region so special.
by Gutiérrez Ramírez Jesús Alberto
The Location and Geographic Features
of the Biosphere
The Yucatan
Peninsula
Located in southeastern
Mexico, the Yucatan
Peninsula is a vast limestone
platform that is home to
dense tropical forests,
underground rivers, and
cenotes.
The Mexican
Caribbean
The Mexican Caribbean is a
stretch of coastline that
faces the Caribbean Sea and
boasts some of the most
beautiful beaches and coral
reefs in the world.
The Biosphere
The biosphere that covers
this region is characterized
by dense tropical forests,
freshwater wetlands, and the
second-largest coral reef
system in the world.
The History of the Creation of the
National Parks
1 2 3
The 1970s The 1980s The 1990s
During this decade, a In the 1980s, the Yum Balam The 1990s saw the creation
growing awareness of the Flora and Fauna Protection of the Xcaret Ecological Park,
importance of environmental Area was established, along the Isla Contoy National
conservation led to the with the Rio Lagartos Park, and the Calakmul
creation of the Sian Ka'an Biosphere Reserve and the Biosphere Reserve, among
Biosphere Reserve and the Cozumel Reefs National Park. others.
Arrecifes de Cozumel
National Park.
Parques Nacionales in the Yucatan
Peninsula

Cenotes at Ik Kil The Yum Balam Biosphere Reserve

Ik Kil is a cenote located near Chichen Itza that The Yum Balam Biosphere Reserve is home to a
is known for its crystal-clear waters and scenic variety of ecosystems, including mangroves,
beauty. coral reefs, and lagoons.

Río Lagartos Biosphere Reserve Calakmul Biosphere Reserve

The Río Lagartos Biosphere Reserve is a haven The Calakmul Biosphere Reserve is home to one
for wildlife, including pink flamingoes, crocodiles, of the largest Maya archaeological sites and a
and endemic bird species. vast expanse of tropical forest.
Parques Nacionales in the Mexican
Caribbean
Tulum National Park
Home to a Mayan archaeological site
Stunning Caribbean beaches
Diverse marine life
Isla Mujeres National Park
A top destination for snorkeling and diving
Home to sea turtles, rays, and colorful fish
Beautiful beaches and crystal-clear waters
The Flora and Fauna of the
Region
1 Coral Reefs
The coral reefs of the region
are home to a stunning array
of marine life, including sea
turtles, sharks, rays, and
colorful fish.
2 Tropical Forests
The tropical forests of the
region are rich in biodiversity,
with a variety of endemic bird
and mammal species and
fascinating plants and trees.

3 Freshwater Wetlands
The freshwater wetlands of the region are home to crocodiles,
manatees, and a variety of bird species.
The Challenges of Conservation
Habitat Loss
The rapid development of tourism and
urbanization in the region has led to the loss of
natural habitats and the degradation of
ecosystems.
Illegal Fishing and Hunting
Illegal fishing and hunting practices have had a
serious impact on the wildlife of the region,
particularly sea turtles, which are often killed
for their meat and eggs.
Climate Change
The warming of the oceans and the increase in
extreme weather events pose a serious threat
to the coral reefs and other marine habitats of
the region.
Pollution
The discharge of sewage, chemical fertilizers,
and other pollutants into the rivers and oceans
of the region is a major threat to the health of
the ecosystems and the safety of the local
communities.