In Mauritius there are some 600 various plant species, out of which more than 300 are endemic.

The Flora and Fauna of the Island

Mauritius a small island located in the Indian ocean, very popular in the world with the most threatened island flora and fauna. When Mauritius was discovered by the Dutch in 1598, a thick ebony forest covered the island. The subsequent French and British colonisation led to serious deforestation and today very less good quality native forest is left. The native forest is under constant threat of invasive plants like Chinese guava, Ravenala as well as animal predators that contribute to the degradation process.

How are we protecting the natural heritage?

The organizations and the government are working together to safeguard the country’s natural heritage. Visitors to Mauritius can often explore its unique biodiversity through ecotourism activities. Several offshore islands and islets surrounding Mauritius are designated nature reserves and provide sanctuary for various bird’s species and reptiles.

A brief overview of the Flora of Mauritius

The Endemic Trochetia found at Le Morne Mountain and declared National flower.
The Ebony tree, endemic to Mauritius, the most valuable wood during the Dutch colonisation.
The ‘Bois d’olive’, endemic to Mauritius which can be found throughout the native forest of the country.
The exotic hibiscus which is rare and found at ‘Le corps de garde’ and ‘Le morne Brabant’ mountain.
The ‘Fleur de lys’ was presumed extinct in the wild until it was rediscovered.
The Coffea Macrocarpa, coffee plant indigenous to Mauritius.

The key region where flora is found in Mauritius, the black river gorge, the central plateau- cure pipe, Plaine Willems, the Sir Seewoosagur Ramgoolam Botanical Garden serve as a showcase for a wide range of flora, including indigenous and exotic plants.

A brief overview of the Fauna of Mauritius

The Pink Pigeon, a critically endangered species and has also benefited from conversation programs.
The Giant Tortoises which were introduced to Mauritius by sailors are still found in Mauritius.
The Kestrel, one of the world’s rarest birds.
The Bats also known as flying fox and fruit bats are an important part of the island’s ecosystem.
The cuckoo, an endemic to Mauritius is known for its distinctive black and white plumage.
The Colourful Gecko, a native to Mauritius and can be found in various habitats.
The unique reptiles found anywhere else than Mauritius.

The key region where fauna is found in Mauritius, the black river gorge, the central plateau – Curepipe, Plaine Willems, the Sir Seewoosagur Ramgoolam Botanical Garden, for example hosts a collection of birds, deer’s and other animals