The protected area will ban mining, trawling and industrial fishing while allowing artisanal fishing to continue. Conservation groups described the move as one of the largest contributions to ocean protection, safeguarding habitats for numerous endangered marine species.

Author: Reiseuhu;

The Austral and Marquesas archipelagos are among the most biologically rich island groups in the world and are home to species found nowhere else on Earth. The reserve will protect critical habitats for sharks, whales, dolphins and sea turtles. Conservation advocates said the announcement strengthens French Polynesia’s position as a global leader in marine conservation.