Vol. 71 No. Suppl. 1 (2023): Research in a RAMSAR site: The Cananéia-Iguape-Peruibe estuarine-lagoon complex, Brazil

Marine Protected Areas (MPAs) are critically important to preserve species and maintain ecosystem dynamics. However, such conservation units are constantly subject to the input of chemical compounds and other anthropogenic impacts, which can change natural processes and promote adverse effects on living organisms.

Although there are 27 Ramsar sites (priority areas for international conservation) in Brazil, few are in marine ecosystems. The Cananéia-Iguape estuarine-lagoon complex (CIELC) integrates the Cananéia-Iguape-Peruíbe environmental protection area as a biosphere reserve (UNESCO), and in 2017 was included on the Ramsar list of wetlands of international importance, and is considered a priority area for conservation. The southern region of the CIELC is relatively well preserved, but the northern sections receive anthropogenic inputs from Ribeira de Iguape river outflow via Valo Grande (an artificial channel).

This special article collection brings together contributions aiming to promote a more complete understanding of ecosystem processes in this important coastal wetland, providing a solid scientific background for conservation actions and policies.

This is the Volume 71, Suppl. 1 (2023) of the Ocean and Coastal Research.