Natural Resources of the Bahamas

The Bahamas’ natural wealth lies in its marine and mineral endowments rather than arable land (only ~1 % cultivatable).

Minerals

• Aragonite: Vast deposits on the Great Bahama Bank; used in cement, glass, soil amendment.
• Calcite, Dolomite, Gypsum, Halite (salt): Additional industrial minerals.
• Sand: High-purity silica sand for construction and glassmaking.

Marine & Biological

• Fisheries: Spiny lobster, conch, grouper, snapper—major export earners.
• Coral reefs: Biodiversity hotspots; drive high-value tourism.
• Mangroves & pine forests: Nursery habitats, carbon sinks, limited timber.

Wildlife

Flamingos, iguanas, bats, migratory birds, and marine mammals support ecotourism.

Sustainable management of these resources underpins the Bahamian economy.