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There is already huge concern about the Great Barrier Reef off the Queensland coast, where precious corals have been killed by pollution and coral-eating starfish.

"This is a game-changing proposal that will permanently protect the area's precious corals, marine life and vital habitats," said Brad Sewell, director of fisheries and U.S.

The Straits, an equally vital body of water that's home to some of the world's most precious coral reefs, separates Havana and Key West, Florida, by a mere 90 miles.

One of the big concerns is the potential loss of Los Roques' unique marine life, including its precious corals, which are already under assault from global warming.

It is the most widely traded and valuable of all precious corals but has no international protection, resulting in a brisk international trade in the species, the group claims.