Today we went hiking in the desert a few miles away from camp during which we saw white, black, red and sweet mangroves. We also learned where each one grows. We also learned that they are nurseries for birds and most fish species that we eat. Once we entered the desert, we learned about cacti including prickly pear, cardons, agave, and the salt wart.
After the hike, we ate lunch and then went snorkeling in El Coralito. We saw at least 2 dozen species of fish including parrotfish, Sergeant majors, king angels and Cortez round rays. We also saw some invertebrates such as sea urchins, sun stars and the crown of thorns star.
Next, we went to and old pearl farm from the early 1900’s. On the way we saw green sea turtles, two bottle nosed dolphins and a few hundred frigate birds. Once we reached the pearl farm, we found artifacts such as nets, nets, cans and bolts. We also saw fossilized oyster shells in piles next to where the native Indians had a look post in the mountains. On the way back to the camp, we saw mobula rays jumping out of the water.
Next we had a spaghetti dinner during we a research team did a presentation on mobula rays. After dinner we went into our bay in search of mobula rays, but only saw one. At the boat we saw needle fish, balloon puffer fish, Cortez round rays, crabs and billions of plankton and krill. It was a great way to capture an amazing day in Baja.
Mike and Alec
