Lagon de Moorea. 15/09/08; Polynésie française; 5,000 ha; 17°30'S 149°50W. A coral reef ecosystem developed in the tropical waters of Moorea island in the Archipel de la Société (Society Islands) west of Tahiti, also including beaches, permanent shallow marine waters, and saline lagoons. The coral reef system is one of the best known in the world it provides habitat for many marine endangered species such as corals, sponges, mollusks, crustaceous, and is also spawning ground for fishes. A number of waterbirds such as Pseudobulweria rostrata, Puffinus pacificu and Puffinus bailloni regularly reproduce here. Many of the human activities on the island are linked to the resources and services provided by this ecosystem for tourism, pleasure, and construction. One of the main threats is the increasing urbanization of the coastal zone. Ramsar site no. 1834. Most recent RIS information: 2008.