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Belize Barrier Reef Reserve System

Belize
Date of Inscription: 1996
Criteria: (vii)(ix)(x)
Core zone: 96300 ha
Belize District (sites I, II, III), Stann Creek District ( IV,V,VI), Toledo District (VII)
N16 45 0 W87 3 30
Ref: 764

Brief Description

The coastal area of Belize is an outstanding natural system consisting of the largest barrier reef in the northern hemisphere, offshore atolls, several hundred sand cays, mangrove forests, coastal lagoons and estuaries. The system’s seven sites illustrate the evolutionary history of reef development and are a significant habitat for threatened species, including marine turtles, manatees and the American marine crocodile.

Justification for Inscription

The Committee inscribed the Belize Barrier Reef Reserve System under natural criteria (vii), (ix) and (x) as the largest barrier reef in the Northern hemisphere, as a serial nomination consisting of seven sites. The Reef illustrates a classic example of reefs through fringing, barrier and atoll reef types.

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