The reserve was created in 2000 to help protect the traditional local fishing economy, which was suffering from predatory commercial fisheries.

Growth in tourism has caused a surge in real estate prices and introduced new social problems among the traditional residents.

[2] The Corumbau Marine Extractive Reserve was created through mobilisation of the traditional community of fishing people in response to declining stocks.

The reefs include endemic species such as Mussismilia braziliensis, Favia leptophylla, Olindagorgia gracilis, Plexaurella regia and Muricea flammea, and support marine organisms such as molluscs and crustaceans.

[3] Protected species in the reserve include the Néon Elacatinus figaro, Coral-de-fogo Millepora alcicornis and Gorgônia Phyllogorgia dilatata.

In 2002 the Ministry of the Environment (MMA) classified the region as an area of Extreme Biological Importance for the conservation of coastal and marine biodiversity of Brazil.

[3] The reserve holds areas where fish and shrimp are caught, of vital economic importance to the local communities.