Barrera de Posidonia Reef

Between the coastal towns of Roquetas de Mar and Aguadulce is one of the few Posidonia reefs that remain on the Mediterranean coast - the Arrecife Barrea de Posidonia Natural Monument. It is a gem unique to this area of coast, a remnant of the reefs that once abounded in this area. This species requires specific environmental conditions to survive, with clean, oxygen-rich water without sudden changes of temperature and salinity and, of course, free from pollution.

This marine plant, called Posidonia sea grass, has very special qualities. It has long, green, leaves, shaped in strips that reach up to one metre in length. They hold onto the sea bed with a dense network of stems and small roots. The large coastal fields of this plant help to stabilise sediments and sand from the coast, forming a barrier that efficiently prevents sand loss from the beaches.

These formations are home to a large community of marine fauna, with fish, shrimps, crabs and sponges. Here they find an ideal place to shelter, feed and reproduce.

Close by you will find the Cabo de Gata-Níjar Nature Park, with outstanding natural and cultural heritage.