The recently named Reserva de la Biosfera Tiburón Ballena (Whale Shark Biosphere Reserve) is located in front of the north coast region of the Mexican state of Quintana Roo, with a surface area of 145,988 acres. The marine surface of this Protected Area guarantees the protection of the region which contains waters rich with organic material. This concentration of nutrients allow for the presence of species such as mussels, crustaceans, birds and marine mammals, and above all, schools of fish of commercial and sport importance, as well as large groups of whale sharks, making it the perfect environment for spotting these gentle sea giants in their own environment.
From May to September, whale sharks prefer the nutrient- filled waters of the northern areas of Holbox, Isla Contoy and Cabo Catoche, where they feed and mate. The whale shark is unique in that its mouth is located in front of its head, unlike other shark species. This positioning allows the whale shark to feed, normally just below the surface, by simply opening its mouth and scooping up plankton, literally vacuuming food from the water. Local guides have been provided with additional training in developing and executing tours that are safe for the whale sharks and tourists alike. In addition, strict rules have been implemented against scuba equipment being used to view the species. Cancun and Puerto Morelos is home to the second-largest barrier reef in the world, making a hands-on encounter with the marine world more attainable. Whale sharks, dolphins, manatees, manta rays, stingrays and sea turtles are just a few of the marine species you can spot underwater accompanied by marine staff and experts, such as Biologist Rafael de la Parra, Director of the Project Domino Research sponsored by the Mexican Government, or Dr. Roberto Sanchez from Dolphin Discovery in Cancun. For more information, visit www.cancun.travel.
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