Mexico Rocks
Mexico Rocks is a shallow patch reef complex located off the northern tip of Ambergris Caye, in the Belizean Barrier Reef. The site consists of approximately 100 Holocene patch reefs, clustered on a ridge of Pleistocene limestone, and is composed predominantly of boulder corals (Montastraea annularis). The reef has accumulated in shallow (about 2.5 to 5 meters) water over the last 420 years. The Montastraea annularis patch corals that dominate here are unique to Ambergris Caye's northern lagoon and a rare occurrence in Belize. The site was recommended for designation as a marine preserve in 1978, and is still under consideration. It is seen as an important addition to the caye's ecotourism attractions, being a popular snorkeling destination. The area is known for conch, banded shrimp, arrow crab, flounders, stingray, yellow tail snappers, and an assortment of butterfly fish and angelfish.