Coastal and Marine Ecosystem
Kenya's coastline spans 536 km from Vanga in the south to Ishakani in the north, featuring diverse coastal and marine habitats including mangrove forests, seagrass beds, coral reefs, sandy beaches, and terrestrial coastal forests that provide essential ecological services.
Kenya's Coastal and Marine Ecosystem
A biodiversity hotspot spanning 536 km of Indian Ocean coastline with pristine coral reefs and marine protected areas
Kenya's coastal and marine ecosystem spans 536 km of coastline with critical habitats including mangrove forests, seagrass beds, coral reefs, and sandy beaches. These environments show strong seasonal variations driven by monsoon winds and river discharge, supporting diverse biodiversity and serving as livelihood sources for coastal and inland populations.
Indian Ocean Biodiversity Hotspot
Kenya's coastal waters support over 1,000 fish species, 300+ coral species, and 5 species of sea turtles, making it one of the most biodiverse marine regions in the Western Indian Ocean.
Marine Quick Facts
- Coastal and Marine Ecosystem Territory: 35,614 km²
- Coastline Length: 536.0 km
- Water Temperature: 26-29°C
- Protected Areas: 14.0 total (4.0 marine parks, 6.0 marine reserves, 4 terrestrial reserves)
- Coral Species: 300.0+ species
- Fish Species: 1,000+ species
- Sea Turtle Species: 5.0 species
Coastal and Marine Ecosystem
Interactive map showcasing Kenya's Coastal and Marine ecosystem