The Mesoamerican Barrier Reef is the second largest reef of the world. It is also known as Belize Barrier Reef. This reef protects the coastal inhabitants from violent storms occurring in the ocean. The protective barrier of the reef is supported by a large area of mangrove that lines the coral coast. It is home to a large diversity of plants and animals, and is one of the most diverse ecosystems of the world. It is comprised of 70 hard coral species, 36 soft coral species, 500 species of fish, and hundreds of invertebrate species. Some of the interesting species are: bottlenose dolphins, pretty queen angelfish, and even whale sharks.