Deltas del Estero Real y Llanos de Apacunca. 08/11/01; Chinandega; 81,700 ha; 12°53'N 087°13'W. Natural Reserve. An estuarine ecosystem that is part of the large mangrove systems of the Golfo de Fonseca shared with El Salvador and Honduras, marked by semi-intensive and extensive shrimp cultivation, fishing, and agriculture. Within the site some 35 species of fauna have been identified, and part of the site was declared a Reserve for Genetic Resources in 1996 in order to preserve a species of wild maize (Zea luxurians or nicaraguensis) that is endemic to Nicaragua and found only in this area. The original diversity of the site has suffered from human impacts such as agrochemical and organic waste, sedimentation, deforestation, and excessive hunting. Ramsar site no. 1136. Most recent RIS information: 2001.