Biome
The maximum depth of water in the coastal channel is 40 metres (130 ft), with water temperatures varying between 17–23 °C (63–73 °F). The islet is the centre of a region of great biodiversity, with 96 identified species, with a Margalef index of 11.0 biodiversity. The flora along its flanks are dominated by Dictyota dichotoma, an iridescent brown algae, while numerous faunal species of gastropods Patella ulyssiponensis (locally referred to as lapas or wild limpets) and Megabalanus (a species of barnacle), as well as Coris julis (Mediterranean rainbow wrasse). Shellfish species, including ulyssiponensis Patella aspera and Megabalanus sp. (Barnacles) are also found in the inner straits, in addition to plenty of kingfish.
Measures to conserve the islet and its waters, fall under the Plano do Ordenamento da Orla Costeira (POOC) Flores, which identifies the islet as part of an area of conservation and preservation both for ecological and tourist requirements. The islet itself is identified as "vulnerable" and designated areas have been marked for terrestrial and marine species protection, limiting the use and access to the islet and surrounding waters.
Read more about this topic: Monchique Islet