Distribution, threats, and management of submerged reefs in the north of the reef corridor of the Southwest Gulf of Mexico

Abstract It is important to know the presence and distribution of benthic habitats on the continental shelves, and the relationship they have with the different human activities that take place in the marine environment. Platform reefs are relevant in regions such as the Southwest Gulf of Mexico, where reefs, emerged and submerged, form an ecological corridor. The main challenge for the management of this corridor is the lack of knowledge about the presence and distribution of submerged reef habitats. Here, we update the information on previously discovered submerged reefs in the northern zone of the reef corridor of the Southwest GoM, and we report four new reef structures (three submerged and one fringing reef) unknown until now to science. In this region, there are 9 submerged reefs, whose surface is so far greater than the emerged ones. These reefs are used only for fishing activities. However, there is strong oil activity in the area and significant maritime traffic. Here we analyze each of the activities that take place in the area and contrast them with the management tools that the Mexican government has for the conservation of this ecosystems.