Luiz Saldanha Marine Park - Complementary Protection Zone

Category: Nature > Reserva natural

District: Setúbal > Sesimbra > Sesimbra > Castelo

Location

The Luiz Saldanha Marine Park, Complementary Protection Zone is located off the coast of Sesimbra, in the district of Setúbal, encompassing a marine area of high natural value. Although its extent is underwater, its presence is a fundamental pillar of the beauty and richness of Sesimbra's coastline, extending through waters that bathe the locality and the area surrounding the Castle, where the coastal landscape meets the vast Atlantic Ocean.

This specific zone is part of the broader context of the Professor Luiz Saldanha Marine Park, delimiting an area of capital importance for the preservation of the marine ecosystems adjacent to the rugged coast of Arrábida, known for its cliffs and the dramatic transition from mountain to sea.

Underwater Natural Richness

This Complementary Protection Zone of the Luiz Saldanha Marine Park is a sanctuary of marine life, characterized by its remarkable biodiversity and the transparency of its waters. Its seabeds are a mosaic of habitats, from rocky reefs to sandy bottoms and seagrass meadows, which support a wide range of species.

It is possible to find a profusion of fish of diverse species, crustaceans, mollusks, and echinoderms, as well as a large variety of algae and anemones that colonize the submerged rocks. The diversity of colors and shapes beneath the water's surface is a testament to the vitality of this ecosystem, making it one of the richest sites in marine biodiversity in continental Portugal.

Submerged Geological Landscape

The underwater topography of this area is as fascinating as its marine life. It is characterized by abrupt slopes, underwater caves, rocky walls, and sandy bottoms that extend to various depths, sculpted by the geology of the Serra da Arrábida which continues beneath the sea. These formations create unique shelters and ecological niches, contributing to the extraordinary biological richness of the park.

The ocean currents and the water quality in this specific zone contribute significantly to maintaining an environment conducive to the proliferation of species, making it a site of great interest for observing marine life in conditions of relative clarity and diversity.

Importance for Conservation

The designation of "Complementary Protection Zone" reflects the conservation status of this area, underlining its strategic importance for safeguarding the marine natural heritage. This status implies that human activities are regulated and managed to minimize their impact on habitats and species, allowing for their recovery and prosperity.

It is a crucial area for the reproduction and feeding of many marine species, functioning as a natural nursery and a refuge for vulnerable populations. Its existence is fundamental for maintaining the ecological balance of the Sesimbra coast and represents a commitment to protecting the oceans and their biodiversity for future generations.

License: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0/deed.pt