Southeast Misool is the largest and southern most
marine protected area (MPA) in the Raja Ampat MPA
network and rests within the Coral Triangle – the global
center of marine biodiversity. The MPA encompasses
366,000 hectares, spanning a long chain of ancient karst
limestone islands with a mosaic of channels and intact
marine lakes. Hawksbill turtles feed on sponges in the
MPA and nest on sandy beaches, and manta ray
aggregations can be found on submerged patch reefs.
On land there are sacred caves and ancient rock art that
serve as a touchstone for local culture. The MPA is also
adjacent to a large forest reserve that covers the
southern part of the island of Misool, or as it is locally
known, Batanme.

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McLeod07_FinalThesis_Raja Ampat