Scorpion Reef facts for kids
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Native name:
Arrecife Alacranes
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ISS image of Scorpion Reef
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 Scorpion Reef
Location in Mexico
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| Geography | |
| Location | Gulf of Mexico Progreso Municipality Yucatán, Mexico |
| Coordinates | 22°22′58″N 89°40′57.8″W / 22.38278°N 89.682722°W |
| Archipelago | Campeche Bank |
| Total islands | 5 |
| Major islands | Isla Pérez |
| Administration | |
| Official name: Parque Nacional Arrecife Alacranes | |
| Designated: | 2 February 2008 |
| Reference #: | 1820 |
Scorpion Reef (called Arrecife Alacranes in Spanish) is a large reef system. It surrounds a small group of islands in the Gulf of Mexico. This special place is located off the northern coast of Yucatán, Mexico.
It is known as a national park. Scorpion Reef is part of the Campeche Bank archipelago. It is the biggest reef in the southern Gulf of Mexico. The reef has five main islands with plants. These are Isla Pérez, Isla Desertora, Isla Pájaros, Isla Chica, and Isla Desterrada. Isla Pérez is the only island where people live. It also has a lighthouse.
The reef and its waters are an Important Bird Area (IBA). This means it's a key spot for birds. It is home to many magnificent frigatebirds.
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Exploring Scorpion Reef: A Natural Wonder
Scorpion Reef is a vibrant underwater world. It is full of different sea creatures. The reef helps protect the coastline. It also provides a home for many animals.
What is a Coral Reef?
A coral reef is like an underwater city. It is built by tiny animals called corals. Corals are living creatures. They create hard, stony skeletons. Over time, these skeletons build up. They form the large structures we call reefs. Reefs are important for the ocean. They provide food and shelter for fish. They also protect coastlines from waves.
The Islands of Scorpion Reef
Scorpion Reef has five main islands. Each island is unique.
- Isla Pérez: This is the largest island. It is the only one with people living on it. There is also a lighthouse here. The lighthouse helps ships navigate safely.
- Isla Desertora: This island is named for being "deserted." It is a quiet place.
- Isla Pájaros: This name means "Bird Island." It is a favorite spot for many birds.
- Isla Chica: This means "Small Island." It is one of the smaller land areas.
- Isla Desterrada: This island's name means "Exiled Island." It is also a quiet, remote spot.
Why is Scorpion Reef Important?
Scorpion Reef is very important for several reasons.
- National Park: It is a protected area. This helps keep its plants and animals safe.
- Largest Reef: Being the biggest reef in the southern Gulf of Mexico makes it special. It is a key part of the ocean's health.
- Bird Habitat: It is an Important Bird Area. Many birds, like the magnificent frigatebird, live here. They use the islands for nesting and resting.
- Marine Life: The reef is home to many fish, sharks, turtles, and other sea creatures. It is a rich ecosystem.
History of Scorpion Reef
Scorpion Reef has a long history. It has been a landmark for sailors. Sometimes, it was also a danger.
Shipwrecks and the Past
In 1847, a British ship called the Tweed had an accident. It was a postal steamer. The ship was traveling from Havana to Veracruz. It ran into trouble near Scorpion Reef. The ship was carrying a cargo of mercury. The accident resulted in the loss of the ship.
Images for kids
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Map of Scorpion Reef
