Davis Reef Sanctuary Preservation Area
Scientists and resource managers were interested in protecting delicate gorgonians when they designated a sanctuary preservation area at Davis Reef. Davis Reef Sanctuary Preservation Area, located 4.5 miles southeast of Plantation Key, is home to a range of well-developed gorgonians, or soft corals. Gorgonians include the animal colonies known as sea rods, sea whips, sea feathers, and sea fans.
Very high water temperatures in the summer of 2023 have caused widespread coral bleaching and mortality in the Florida Keys. Descriptions of coral cover or coral health on this page may not be accurate based on current conditions.
Special regulations apply here. Learn more about what activities are allowed in this type of zone.
A summary of all sanctuary regulations is available online. For the full text of sanctuary regulations, see 15 CFR 922 Subpart P.