5. Conclusions

The conclusions of this research are as follows:

• The two lagoons have different dynamics.

Lagoons Reefs of Alacranes Reef and Chinchorro Bank: Ocean Reef of Mexican Atlantic DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.5772/intechopen.88662


By virtue of its insular nature and the scarcity of freshwater, both reefs have remained safe from major alterations. Alacranes reef and Chinchorro Bank are a distant paradise that still have abundant fishing resources and diverse underwater life to marvel, as well as the possibility of discovering hidden secrets kept by the sea and time. However, we must consider and not forget that the overexploitation of resources can deplete the productivity of this place, which until now is one of the last places where coral reefs and memories of other times remain intact. The knowledge obtained from these systems must serve to conserve their natural resources, with special emphasis on endemic species, threatened, endangered, special protection, and those of current and potential economic importance, as well as preserving the reef landscape and its natural elements, for the enjoyment, recreation, exploitation, and elevation of the quality of life of social groups and visitors and for future generations. It should also encourage the conduct of research and studies that broaden and deepen this knowledge and contribute to the development of methods and alternatives for the sustainable use of resources.

The benchmarks of reefs in Mexico are changing, and they need to be redefined frequently to update them, in order for the management tools to be more effective and accurate; we hope that this contribution will go in that direction of conservation and maintenance of these magnificent ecosystems.
