Buyers Information Pack - English - banyan tree

FAUNA & FLORA
You will find some of the richest and rarest fauna and flora on the planet in Seychelles. Committed
to conservation and avid protectors of the environment, the Seychellois are justifiably proud that
their country houses two UNESCO World Heritage Sites: Aldabra, the world’s largest raised coral
atoll, and Praslin Island’s Vallée de Mai – once believed to be the original site of the Garden of
Eden itself. The islands also boast six national marine parks.
FLORA
The tropical climate and rich soils of the Seychelles’ islands provide a verdant environment for all
manner of plant life, including the famous Coco-de-Mer, a very rare type of coconut found only
on the islands of Praslin and Curieuse. Known as the ‘love nut’ due to its rather suggestive shape,
this is also the world’s largest seed.
• Seychelles boasts over 700 species of plants, 81 of which are endemic
• Important species include: Casuarinas, Albizzies, Mangroves, Takamakas, Baobabs, Citrus Plants,
Pitcher Plant, and the very rare Bois Meduse.
• Certain species were introduced in the 1700s, including: Vanilla, Black Pepper, Cardamon,
Bouganvillea and Nutmeg.
• Fruits that proliferate here include Mangoes, Paypayas, Pineapple, Jamalac, Guava, Bananas
and Bread Fruit.
FAUNA
The world’s smallest frog and heaviest land tortoise are both found in the Seychelles, as well
as some of the largest seabird colonies on the planet. The marine life around the islands is
quite astounding, particularly on the more remote coral islands. Over 900 species of fish have
been recorded in these parts, and thanks to bans on spear guns and dynamite for fishing in the
1960s, these sea creatures are confident around snorklers and divers, which makes for magical
underwater experiences.
• The Giant Tortoises from Aldabra now populate many of the islands of the Seychelles.
• Some of the largest seabird colonies in the world
• Islands such as Bird, Aride, Cousine, Aldabra and Cosmoledo host many species of seabirds
including the Sooty Tern, Fairy Tern, White-tailed tropic bird, Noddies and Frigatebirds.
• Marine turtle colonies can be found on Cousine and Aldabra islands