Marismas Nacionales. 22/06/95; Sinaloa, Nayarit; 200,000 ha; 22°08'N 105°32'W. Large network of brackish coastal lagoons, mangroves, swamps, and saltmarshes fed by several rivers. The site includes estuaries, the most extensive mangroves of the Mexican Pacific (20% of all the mangroves in the country), timber-grade forests, and pastures. At least 60 species of nationally or internationally endangered vertebrates occur here, including 51 endemic ones, 36 of which are endemic birds. The Orbygnia palm forests on sand bars constitute a threatened community. Numerous creeks have been transformed into large prawn farms, and pressure continues. This could become an economically important activity in the area. Other human activities include traditional fishing and cattle ranching; limited numbers of pigs, fowl and bees are also kept. Fruit and seeds are exploited by industry and leaves are gathered for handicrafts and roof thatch. Ramsar site no. 732. Most recent RIS information: 2001.