Set across the glistening Indian Ocean, Maldives is made up of over a thousand tropical islands across twenty-six atolls. Less than 200 of these islands are inhabited by the local people and more than 180 are operational luxury resorts, leaving the remaining hundreds of islands untouched. The local time is GMT +5, and the local currency is the Maldivian Rufiyaa (MVR). The US Dollar is widely accepted with an official conversion rate of 15.42. 

Ads By Oaga Art Resort Maldives

The Maldives has long been dubbed as paradise for its beautiful blue waters and pristine beaches. While its magnificent underwater wonderlands are popular among divers and tourists, the island archipelago is also home to a rich selection of flora and fauna. With the islands dotted with an array of tropical plants, the coconut palm stands tall as a pillar of the local community. In addition to providing shade, the coconut palm has long been a staple in the local households. Coconuts are used in almost all local dishes while palm leaves and wood are used in building houses, mat weaving, and more. Breadfruit, papaya, banana, mango and banyan trees are also common in the Maldives. 

The streets of the islands are lined with plenty of flowering plants, including hibiscus, frangipani, and jasmine, filling the air with its scent. Many local houses on the islands are adorned with bougainvillea in shades of magenta, red, and white along with pots of polyantha rose plants and vinca plants lined along the outside walls. Common across all islands, the pink polyantha rose (finifenmaa) is the national flower of the Maldives. Adding a pop of colour to the white sandy beaches with a tapestry of pink and purple flowers, beach morning glory (thanburu) can be found along the upper parts of the beaches. Sea Lettuce (magoo), Coastal Ironwood (Kuredhi), and Bay Cedar (Halaveli) are some of the common flowering plants found by the beachside. 

Ads By The Standard, Huruvalhi Maldives

Mangrove forests (Kulhi) are also a vital part of the Maldives’ ecosystem. Commonly found on northern and southern islands, mangroves are home to a variety of unique plant and fish species. It offers protection from erosion and flooding in the islands while also providing a home for endangered marine life. 

Although wild animals do not live in the Maldives, tropical birds including Asian Koel (Koveli), Grey Heron (Maakana), white-breasted waterhen (Kan’bili), and little tern (kiru dhooni) live in harmony with the island’s lush foliage and can be often seen by the shores. Fruit bats or flying foxes, pigeons, and crows are also common in the islands. On ground, cats and reptiles such as geckos and oriental garden lizards can be found within the islands while ghost crabs (kakuni) and land hermit crabs (baraveli) can be seen by the shoreline.

Beneath the pristine waters of the Maldives lies a haven for ocean-enthusiasts, teeming with colourful fishes and vibrant coral reefs. It is home to different species of rays including manta rays, eagle rays and stingrays, an array of sharks such as hammerhead sharks, tiger sharks and the majestic whale sharks. Playful dolphins, turtles, and colourful fishes such as clownfish, butterflyfish, parrotfish and many more can be found in the Maldives.  

Ads By Summer Island Maldives

The rich selection of flora and fauna plays a significant role in the islands’ ecosystems, providing harmony in coexistence. From the vibrant marine life to the tropical plants and birds, the Maldives is a haven for nature lovers, bird enthusiasts, and travellers looking to explore the unique offerings of a tropical paradise.

Written by: Meera Moosa