The Bahamas are located off the southeastern tip of Florida and host forests, wetlands, swamps, and the Andros Barrier Reef, the second largest barrier reef in the western hemisphere. The Bahamas island eco-region consists of over 3,000 low-lying islands and covers over 14,000 square kilometers. In addition to coral reefs, habitats in this area include mangrove swamps and rocky tidal pools and estuaries which all provide breeding and growing grounds for young marine life. The reef itself is composed of staghorn, elkhorn, and other shallow reef species. The Bahamian Reefs are designated by Mission Blue as a Hope Spot.
