Ilhéus das Formigas

The Ilhéus das Formigas Nature Reserve, which also includes the Dollabarat Reef, is a protected area of exceptional ecological importance, located atop an extensive seamount. It is located about 33 nautical miles from the southeastern tip of São Miguel and 20 nautical miles from the northeastern tip of Santa Maria.

Covering a total area of 52,393 hectares, this Nature Reserve includes both a terrestrial area, represented by the small islets that emerge above the surface, and a vast marine area full of submerged habitats of high biological value.

The Ilhéus das Formigas are essentially formed by basaltic flows, interrupted by limestone dykes that preserve fossils of marine invertebrates. These outcrops are part of a unique ecosystem characterised by highly transparent waters, rocky bottoms, lava scoria, and numerous natural caves that support dense, diverse marine communities.

This seamount is home to sponges, corals, and various coastal and pelagic species, such as the Barred Hogfish (Bodianus scrofa), the Dusky Grouper (Epinephelus marginatus), the Rainbow Wrasse (Coris julis), as well as schools of Atlantic Bonito (Sarda sarda), Amberjack (Seriola sp.) and Yellowmouth Barracuda (Sphyraena viridensis). The area is also frequented by large predators, including Oceanic Manta Ray (Manta birostris), Chilean Devil Ray (Mobula tarapacana), and Galapagos Shark (Carcharhinus galapagensis). Migratory species also use this habitat, such as Loggerhead Turtles (Caretta caretta), Hammerhead Sharks (Sphyrna zygaena), and Whale Sharks (Rhincodon typus). Various species of dolphins, pilot whales (Globicephala sp.), and other sea turtles are frequently sighted, reinforcing this area’s status as one of the most important places in the Azores for observing marine life.

The ecological importance of this area has led to its classification as a Ramsar Site, recognising its crucial role in the conservation of wetlands of international importance. The area is also classified as a Marine Protected Area – Banco das Formigas e Recife Dollabarat, under OSPAR Convention, and is part of the Special Conservation Area of Ilhéu das Formigas e Recife Dollabarat, within the Natura 2000 network.

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