In 1995, an intangible zone extending from Punta Arco to Punta Pardelas in Golfo Nuevo, was created by Provincial Law 4098. In 1985, the southern right whale was declared as Natural Monument by the National Congress. Inscribed as a World Heritage site in 1999. From 100m to - 35m at Salinas Grandes, which is the lowest point in mainland South America. This island is very important for several species of coastal and marine birds, which form breeding colonies on it.
Soils are generally very shallow.
During winter there are from 12 to 20 days of frost. The number of communities represented in the area demonstrate its importance from the phyto-geographic point of view, considering that in the whole Patagonian region 28 communities have been described. Some 130 plant species from 41 families have been reported, with 38 species endemic to Argentina. Principle communities include tussock grasslands of Stipa spp. and xerophytic cushion grasses of Poa spp. Should this rate had been maintained, then the current population may count around 2,700 individuals.