owing to its proximity to the sepetiba bay, the channel is
partially surrounded by the
reserva biológica and arqueológica
de guaratiba, which is a huge area of environmental protection,
spanning an impressive 3,600 hectors, and encompassing
marshlands, swamps, and mangroves, all amongst an exotic array
of plants and wildlife.
the reserve is separated from the main hub of the
city, by the
canal do bacalhau, and is one of
the best-preserved areas of the region.
the canal is where several islands are located -
each home to mangroves and local wildlife, with
ilha do bom
jardim being the largest and most famous.