The Taka Bonerate-Kepulauan Selayar biosphere reserve, Indonesia

The Taka Bonerate-Kepulauan Selayar biosphere reserve. [Photo/UNESCO]

The Taka Bonerate-Kepulauan Selayar biosphere reserve is located at the south of Sulawesi (Celebes) and belongs to South Sulawesi Province. It covers an area of about 4,410,736 hectares. Mangrove forests serve as a barrier against the fierce ocean waves and hence as a shelter and spawning ground for various types of fish, as well as a habitat for many species of fauna such as birds. The national authorities aim to make this site the leading area in coral reef conservation and a major tourist destination in Sulawesi. The area is intended to serve as a learning laboratory for researchers, students, local government representatives, NGOs and private sector organisations.