Coastal and Marine Ecosystems of the Bijagós Archipelago – Omati Minho This is a UNESCO World Heritage Site (since 2025) in Guinea-Bissau, West Africa. It encompasses the best-preserved coastal and marine ecosystems of the Bijagós Archipelago (approximately 88 islands and islets), particularly the shallow sea, intertidal, and delta areas.
It is the only active deltaic archipelago on the Atlantic coast of Africa.
Characteristic features include mangroves, mudflats, sandbanks, and intertidal zones.
These are formed by sediments from the Geba and Corubal rivers, tides, upwelling, and coastal currents, ensuring high productivity and nutrient richness.
The area harbors rich biodiversity: Important nesting sites for sea turtles (especially green turtles on Poilão; also leatherback turtles and others), one of the most important in Africa and worldwide.
Manatees, dolphins (including Atlantic humpback dolphins), sharks, rays, and other elasmobranchs.
More than 870,000 migratory birds (especially waders) – one of the most important foraging areas along the East Atlantic Flyway in Africa.
Also “marine” hippos (unique in seawater) and various fish.
It is part of a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve (since 1996) and includes protected areas such as Orango Islands National Park and João Vieira-Poilão.
The local Bijagó communities play a role in sustainable management.
