Biodiversity

Among the coral reefs of Bayahibe and Parque Nacional del Este.

Divers who visit the coral reefs of the Bayahibe area may observe the greatest example of marine biodiversity to be found in the Caribbean region. Over 120 species of tropical fish, among which are the parrot fish, damselfish, squirrel fish, sea bass, moray eels, angel fish etc. We frequently find nurse sharks, turtles, hawksbill turtles, beautiful rays, schools of barracuda as well as limitless and colorful varieties of marine creatures typical of the coral reefs.

Coral formations are the basis of these reef communities. There are mainly the stony corals (petreos), as well as the brain and elkhorn corals. We are able to identify 75 species of corals of 17 different families. Divers in these waters can find 61 species of macroalgaes and numerous and impressive multicolored sponges, belonging to 63 different species.

One hundred forty six species of mollusks can be found in these waters, highlighting the enormous conch (lambi) that slowly move through these sands, flanked by coral formations.

In addition, there are abundant quantities of shellfish common to the reefs, represented by seven different species among which are thorny lobsters and giant crabs. Impressive starfish and a great variety of urchins rest calmly and are visible to passing divers, who delight in their spectacular shapes and colors. Sea mammals abound in this zone and sometimes accompany divers during their boat trips, particularly the dolphins and the spotted dolphins.

On occasions, manatee are seen and in the winter season it is possible to view humpback whales accompanied by their young as they swim in the shallow depths of Bayahibe and Parque Nacional del Este on their way to the Bay of Samaná.

The boats are often followed to the dive sites by flocks of frigate birds and seagulls. We often observe groups of pelicans diving spectacularly into the sea waters in search of nourishment. Exploring the marine depths of Bayahibe and Parque Nacional del Este, between coral formations, penetrating caves inhabited by innumerable marine organisms and integrating the world of the coral reefs in perfect harmony, is an unforgettable experience for even the most experienced diver.