Conch Reef Research Only Area

Five nautical miles southeast of Tavernier, and adjacent to the Conch Reef Sanctuary Preservation Area, is the Conch Reef Research Only Area. This zone is home to the Aquarius Reef Base, the world's only underwater laboratory, which today is operated by Florida International University. The Conch Reef Research Only Area is closed to entry and is identified by yellow buoys clearly marked with "Research Only."

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.