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BIODIVERSITY Turks and Caicos is an archipelago of 40 islands and cays (small, low-lying islands formed from sand and coral), with only eight inhabited. Located southeast of the Bahamas and north of the island of Hispaniola, which is shared by Haiti and the Dominican Republic, it sits at the crossroads of the Atlantic Ocean and the Caribbean Sea resulting in unique clear waters and vibrant marine life. I was surprised to learn that the Turks and Caicos Islands are home to the third-largest coral reef system in the world, making it a top spot for snorkeling and diving. The reef is rich with coral species like brain, elkhorn, and staghorn coral, which are vital to the ecosystem. One side of the reef features a dramatic drop-off, where shallow waters give way to deep, darker depths, creating a unique environment for marine life. The area is also teeming with diverse species such as queen angelfish, parrotfish, and southern stingrays, making it a prime destination for underwater exploration. RICH LEGACY The Turks and Caicos Islands have a rich history, particularly tied to its salt industry. In the 17th century, the islands became a key exporter of salt, and during the U.S. Civil War, they supplied salt to the Confederacy, crucial for preserving food. The salt trade continued to drive the economy until the early 20th century, with remnants of the old salt ponds still visible today. In the 1960s, the islands played a role in space exploration. Their isolated environment was used by NASA for astronaut training and recovery operations during the Mercury and Gemini missions, providing an ideal location for testing landing and recovery techniques. Today, the islands remain a British Overseas Territory, offering self-governance while maintaining British sovereignty. This connection has shaped their development and international relations, preserving their unique identity under British rule.