Koviljsko-Petrovaradinski rit (Kovilj - Petrovaradin Marshes) is a complex of marshes and forest ecosystems (4,840 ha) with numerous biocoenoses integrated into a functional whole. It is located in south-east Bačka region along the inundation area of the middle course of the Danube spreading over both left (1,231-1,250 km) and right bank (1,245-1,251 km) in the vicinity of Kovilj and Petrovaradin settlements. In the north it extends to the city of Novi Sad and in the south-east to Gardinovci village. Basic values of this area include preserved and diverse indigenous orographic and hydrographic forms of marshes (aits, backwaters, ponds, swamps); preserved, abundant indigenous plant communities in marshes (forests, meadows, reeds, rushes); diversity and wealth of fauna (172 species of birds and 46 species of fish) and especially the presence of rare and endangered species. Evaluations of its value indicate that it has an exceptional environmental significance for the preservation of habitats of various plant and animal species and their biocoenoses. Taking into account its characteristics, special values, category of rarity and international significance, the Government of the Republic of Serbia has adopted a Decree on the Protection of Koviljsko-Petrovaradinski rit (‘Official Gazette of the Republic of Serbia', no. 27/98) as a natural asset of special importance under protection category I -- SPECIAL NATURE RESERVE.