The Cheia Complex Reserve, located on the left bank of the Casimcea Valley in Central Dobrogea, covers an area of 285 ha. This includes geological, paleontological and floristic elements. The Cheia limestone massif, with a distinct reef formation, is composed of various types of limestone, including stromatolitic and coralligenic.
Uncut limestone layers contain unique forms of ringed sponge bioherms, which appear as vertical towers or giant rings. The reserve is also home to a diverse flora with approximately 565 species, many of which are Pontic or Pontic-Sub-Mediterranean elements. The Cheia massif is a valuable reserve that protects important geological, geomorphological and floristic elements.
Source: Parks and nature reserves of Romania, Gheorghe Mohan, Aurel Ardelean, Victor Bortaș ed. Victor B. Victor, 2006
