Economy

Many species of commercial or recreational value are known to use GTM Research Reserve's estuary for all or part or their life cycle.

Habitat and Species

The diversity of communities present in GTM Research Reserve provides habitat for a wide variety of fish and wildlife. A species list recently compiled for Guana River Marsh Aquatic Preserve indicated the presence of at least 44 mammal, 358 bird, 41 reptile, 21 amphibian, 303 fish and 580 plant species. It contains habitats essential to 48 protected animals and 8 protected plants.

Outstanding Florida Waters (OFWs)

OFWs are designated due to their high quality, recreational or ecological significance, or their location within state or federally owned lands. This designation is intended to preserve the ambient water quality and does not allow any degradation. Several of the management units within GTM Research Reserve are OFWs.

• Faver-Dykes State Park
• Guana River Marsh Aquatic Preserve
• Guana River Wildlife Management Area
• Pellicer Creek Aquatic Preserve
• Washington Oaks Gardens State Park