it may come as no surprise that the tropical coral reefs are the ecosystems of the coastal zone with the highest level of biological diversity. pulsating with color and life, the coral reefs provide refuge and sustenance for a great variety of different species, making them some of the most diverse environments on the planet, and a hugely popular attraction for tourists to the region.

examples of low-diversity systems, within the coastal zone, are the sandy and muddy beaches, which are found all along the shore. the lack of great diversity at these locations can be put down to a number of factors, however, a scarce supply of food is a major reason for their relative lack of species.

within these various ecosystems there are great numbers of animal different species, which include many different fish, mammals, and birds, amongst many others, together contributing to an area of great natural value. one of the most numerous groups are the cetaceans, of which there are 43 recorded species within the coastal region, with particularly rare examples the humpback (megaptera navaeangliae), and the franciscan or porpoise (pontoporia blainvillei).