Primarily due to its unique location at the boundary between the temperate and subtropical zones, east central Florida__s Indian River Lagoon (IRL) system is one of the most biologically diverse estuarine system in the continental United States, supporting more than 3,000 species of animals and plants. In 1990, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency designated the IRL as an "estuary of national significance" which initiated both local and national efforts to better protect the biodiversity of this rich ecosystem. We invite you to begin your exploration of the Indian River Lagoon and its abundance of species. http://www.sms.si.edu/irlspec/