Grupo Xcaret Earns ALPZA Certification for Its Coral Conservation Program

MEXICO CITY — Grupo Xcaret has earned official certification from the Latin American Association of Zoological Parks and Aquariums (ALPZA) for its Coral Conservation Program, placing the initiative among the most advanced marine restoration efforts in the region. ALPZA certification is granted only to institutions that meet rigorous standards in conservation, animal welfare, sustainability, research, and environmental education—criteria that only a small number of organizations across Latin America are able to achieve.

This recognition comes at a critical time for Mexico’s reefs, which have suffered steep declines due to disease, coastal development, rising sea temperatures, and hurricane damage. According to CONANP and regional monitoring networks, populations of foundational coral species—particularly Acropora palmata—have been reduced by more than 80% in parts of the Caribbean. Xcaret’s program directly targets this decline.

A State-of-the-Art Coral Lab in the Riviera Maya

Xcaret’s coral laboratory, located inside Parque Xcaret, stands out for its use of assisted sexual reproduction, one of the most promising techniques for restoring coral genetic diversity. The facility maintains specialized tanks for spawning, larval settlement, and juvenile grow-out, as well as:

• A quarantine zone for diseased or stressed corals
• A recovery module for long-term monitoring
• Temperature-controlled and flow-regulated systems that simulate natural reef conditions

The team focuses heavily on Acropora palmata, listed as a threatened species in Mexico and critical for reef building and shoreline protection.

From Lab to Ocean: 350 Coral Fragments Under Care

Once fragments reach a healthy stage, they are transferred to marine nurseries—underwater structures anchored offshore. Here, more than 350 coral fragments are currently growing in open-sea conditions, part of a long-term strategy to strengthen degraded reef sites in the Mexican Caribbean.

“Coral conservation requires science, education, and direct action. This certification validates years of ongoing work and collaboration with partner institutions to advance restoration,” said Rodolfo Raigoza, Director of Conservation for Grupo Xcaret. The program collaborates with regional scientists, NGOs, and government agencies to monitor genetic variation, survival rates, and site selection for future outplanting.

Why ALPZA Certification Matters

ALPZA represents more than 70 accredited zoological and aquarium institutions across Latin America. Certification signals that a program meets a high bar for:

• Scientific rigor
• Ethical standards
• Transparent management
• Environmental responsibility
• Public education

Only a fraction of applicants receive ALPZA distinction, making this a significant milestone for reef conservation efforts in Mexico.

A Broader Commitment to Caribbean Restoration

With this certification, Grupo Xcaret strengthens its role in safeguarding the ecological future of the region. Coral reefs support more than 25% of marine species and serve as natural barriers protecting coastlines like Cancún, Playa del Carmen, and Cozumel from increasingly strong storms.

Xcaret’s work invites visitors and residents to understand—and participate in—the stewardship of these fragile ecosystems.

About Grupo Xcaret
Grupo Xcaret is a 100% Mexican company with more than 30 years dedicated to sustainable tourism rooted in nature and culture. Its operations include the award-winning Xcaret, Xel-Há, Xplor, Xenses, Xplor Fuego, and Xoximilco parks; the Xcaret hotel collection; archaeological and nature tours; and its maritime division, Xcaret Xailing, which operates ferries and catamaran excursions throughout the Mexican Caribbean.