What is the great Mayan reef?

The Great Mayan Reef, also known as the Mesoamerican Barrier Reef, is the largest coral reef system in the Western Hemisphere, stretching over 1,000 kilometers along the coasts of Mexico, Belize, Guatemala, and Honduras. It is a UNESCO World Heritage site and is renowned for its biodiversity, supporting a variety of marine life including fish, corals, and sea turtles. The reef plays a crucial role in local economies through fishing and tourism, while also serving as a vital ecosystem for coastal protection. However, it faces significant threats from climate change, pollution, and overfishing.