known to visit the lagoon regularly, but their safety could be endangered due to several artificial factors. A conservation group called Instituto Via Delphi which is specially designed for protection of local dolphins along Mexican gulf regions were founded to focus understanding of biology of these dolphins and to strengthen their protection. History On the surrounding barrier islands, beach ridges, and mangrove coastline there are several Late Postclassic Maya sites. Juan de Grijalva encountered the Boca de Términos during his 1518 expedition. Threats The biggest influence on the area and a possible threat are the operations of state-owned oil company, Pemex operating within the protected area. The drilling of oil wells and the construction of pipelines can destroy habitat. Additionally, oil spills are a continual threat. Other possible threats include habitat change through population growth in the surrounding area. Laguna de Términos Flora and Fauna Protection Area as a whole is considered to be critically threatened. Although Pemex is both the biggest influence and the biggest threat to the protected area and its biodiversity, it is also economically important to Mexico. Currently there is a petroleum boom which presents an opportunity for the management of the protected area to offer to cooperate with the industry and coordinate use of the resources. There are local residents and non-governmental organizations who are aware of the potential problems and who are a strong voice, with public protests against Pemex plans that emphasize the destruction to ecosystems and quality of life at other Pemex locations. Pemex has acknowledged that they must take into account the opinions of the protected area's management and other voices when planning projects so as to minimize negative environment impacts. Local populations of crocodiles and sea turtles in the areas are in serious danger due to their value for commercial industries. Notes External links Changing tides: twilight and dawn in the Spanish Sea, 1763-1803 By Robert S. Weddle Laguna de Términos (Spanish) Terminos Landforms of Campeche Gulf Coast of Mexico Pemex Protected areas of Campeche Ramsar sites in Mexico Flora and fauna protection areas of Mexico Important Bird Areas of Mexico