This Ria has a triangular shape, and although is it called a Ria , in fact it is not because it is not a fluvial valley but a set of islands surrounded by water. Due to the influence of the water we can see diverse landscapes along the Ria and a dense hydrographical network.

As a wetlands area, a number of aquatic birds can be seen there, and it is for that reason registered under the Ramsar Convention. Therefore it is an area protected by the Government to preserve the ecological environment. This protected area is also included in the directive nr 79/409/$U.

Here are some reasons for its importance:

• A place where birds from the north of the country and central Europe come to during winter
• A significant migratory pathway for birds travelling between northern Europe and Africa
• very rare specimens live here
• Provides nesting sites for species whose habitats are under threat
• 2500 different species can be found here

• 693 different types of plants
• 288 molluscs
• 79 fish
• 15 reptiles
• 11 amphibious
• 214 birds
• 18 mamiferous
• 8 aracnidious
• 5 crustaceous
• 6 anilines

These are good reasons for you to visit the “Centro de Educação Ambiental ” of Marim at the Ria Formosa National Park . – Quinta de Marim located 2km from Aldeia de Marim