Posebni rezervat u moru Limski zaljev (The Lim Bay) is a submerged canyon valley stretching approximately 10 kilometers along the western coast of Istria, Croatia. Its greatest depth reaches 33 meters, and the width of the channel gradually decreases from 600 to 200 meters. Due to the karst geomorphology in this area, numerous freshwater springs, known as "vrulje," emerge beneath the sea surface. These springs have reduced the salinity of the Lim Bay seabed and increased oxygen concentration, resulting in the creation of an exceptionally rich marine ecosystem.
The water in the bay is susceptible to temperature fluctuations and is abundant in plankton. Many fish species utilize this area for spawning and overwintering. Lim Bay is renowned for its aquaculture of fish, oysters, and mussels. Recognizing its unique features, it was declared a special marine reserve in 1980 and is part of the Natura 2000 ecological network.
