World Heritage Identification Number: 653
World Heritage since: 1993
Category: Natural Heritage
Transboundary Heritage: No
Endangered Heritage: No
Country: 🇵🇭 Philippines
Continent: Asia
UNESCO World Region: Asia and the Pacific
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Tubbataha Reefs Natural Park: A Biodiversity Haven in the Sulu Sea
The Tubbataha Reefs Natural Park, officially recognized by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site since 1993, is a remarkable testament to the rich biodiversity found in the heart of the Sulu Sea. Located approximately 150 kilometers southeast of Puerto Princesa, the capital of Palawan, this marine and bird sanctuary spans over 97,030 hectares, encompassing two substantial atolls – North and South Atolls – and the smaller Jessie Beazley Reef.
More to come…UNESCO Description of the World Heritage Site
The Tubbataha Reef Marine Park covers 96,828 ha, including the North and South Atolls and the Jessie Beazley Reef. It is a unique example of an atoll reef with a very high density of marine species; the North Islet serving as a nesting site for birds and marine turtles. The site is an excellent example of a pristine coral reef with a spectacular 100-m perpendicular wall, extensive lagoons and two coral islands.
Encyclopedia Record: Tubbataha Reef
The Tubbataha Natural Park, also known as the Tubbataha Reefs Natural Park, is a protected area of the Philippines located in the middle of the Sulu Sea. The marine and bird sanctuary consists of two huge atolls and the smaller Jessie Beazley Reef covering a total area of 97,030 hectares. It is located 150 kilometres (93 mi) southeast of Puerto Princesa, the capital of Palawan. The uninhabited islands and reefs are part of the island municipality of Cagayancillo, located roughly 130 kilometers (81 mi) to the northeast of the reef.Additional Site Details
Area: 96,828 hectares
(ix) — Outstanding example representing ecological and biological processes
(x) — Contains most important habitats for biodiversity
Coordinates: 8.9533333333 , 119.8675
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© Simon Hefti, Schweiz (de:User:Nikswieweg), CC BY-SA 3.0 Resized from original. (This derivative is under the same CC BY-SA license.)
