The marine life living in the coral reefs surrounding Apo island, Philippines is one of the most diverse per unit area in the planet. It is estimated that over 200 species of coral and over 400 species of fish inhabit the area, and their survival became largely dependent on the conscientious effort by local scientists and the community living in Apo to establish and carefully manage a marine preserve around the 72 hectare island. For nearly 20 years, destructive fishing practices such as dynamite bombing and cyanide poisoning have been banned and special fishing areas and limits have been enforced. The success of the conservation efforts can be seen both underwater and above, where many can benefit from ecotourism and fishermen can still catch large sized fish in a sustainable fashion.