Discover the Diverse Flora of Mauritius and Indian Ocean Islands through this Comprehensive Guide!

The mesmerizing beauty of Mauritius and the surrounding Indian Ocean Islands extends beyond their pristine beaches and crystal-clear waters. These tropical paradises are also home to an impressive variety of plant life that has captivated botanists and nature enthusiasts for centuries.

1. Flora of Mauritius

Mauritius, a lush volcanic island situated in the Indian Ocean, boasts a rich and diverse flora. The island's unique climate, abundant rainfall, and volcanic soil have given rise to an impressive array of plants and trees found nowhere else on earth.

Illustrated Guide to the Flora of Mauritius and Indian Ocean Islands

by Ari Ide-Ektessabi ([Print Replica] Kindle Edition)

4.4 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	98870 KB
Print length	:	241 pages
Screen Reader	:	Supported

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1.1. Rare Orchids

One of the highlights of the Mauritian flora is its rare orchids. These delicate and beautiful flowers are known for their vibrant colors and intricate designs. The Angraecum sesquipedale, also known as Darwin's orchid, is particularly fascinating due to its long nectar tubes that can only be pollinated by a specific species of moth with an extraordinary proboscis length.

1.2. Flame Trees

The Flamboyant, or Flame Tree, is another iconic plant species found in Mauritius. With its striking red or orange flowers and umbrella-shaped canopy, the Flamboyant tree adds a burst of color to the island's landscapes. It is often referred to as the "Christmas Tree" due to its blooming season coinciding with the holiday season.

2. Indian Ocean Islands Flora

The captivating plant life of the Indian Ocean Islands stretches beyond Mauritius to other picturesque destinations such as Seychelles, Comoros, and the Maldives. Each island group has its own unique flora, influenced by factors such as location, climate, and geological history.

2.1. Coco de Mer Palm

The Coco de Mer Palm, found in the Seychelles, holds the distinction of producing the largest seeds of any plant in the world. The seeds, shaped like a female pelvis, have gained a reputation for their suggestive appearance and are considered a symbol of fertility. The Coco de Mer Palm is an iconic and protected species in the Seychelles.

2.2. Ylang-Ylang Trees

The perfume industry owes much to the Ylang-Ylang trees of the Comoros. The highly fragrant yellow flowers of these trees produce essential oil used in perfumes and aromatherapy. The sweet and exotic scent of Ylang-Ylang is often associated with relaxation and tranquility.

3. Conservation efforts

Given the unique and fragile nature of the flora in these islands, conservation efforts are of paramount importance. Several organizations and institutions are actively involved in initiatives aiming to protect and preserve the native plant species.

Exploring the flora of Mauritius and the Indian Ocean Islands is a captivating journey through some of the world's most biodiverse regions. From rare orchids to majestic palm trees, these islands offer a botanical treasure trove waiting to be discovered and protected for generations to come.

Illustrated Guide to the Flora of Mauritius and Indian Ocean Islands

by Ari Ide-Ektessabi ([Print Replica] Kindle Edition)

4.4 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	98870 KB
Print length	:	241 pages
Screen Reader	:	Supported

FREE

The Republic of Mauritius and the Indian Ocean Islands are home to plants with ornamental, medicinal and other properties. Among them are endemic as well as exotic plants and yet these plants growing in our midst are generally unknown.

This guide, with appropriate illustrations, will help plant enthusiasts to better identify and learn about this magnificent and unique flora. Several species have been listed. The different headings give the botanical names, common names, a description, the origins and distribution, the etymology of the names and additional information.

The book includes 550 colour photos showcasing 400 plants from 96 different families.

Ameenah Gurib-Fakim, PhD, DSc, scientist, entrepreneur and former President of the Republic of Mauritius, has always been interested in plants from Indian Ocean countries. She documented traditional information on the use of local plants and has undertaken research to validate their ethnobotanical information.

She is the author of several books on the plant biodiversity of Mauritius and the Indian Ocean and her work has been published nationally and internationally. Member of several scientific academies, she has been the recipient of several awards including: L'Oréal-UNESCO Prize for Women and Science (2007); and the African Union Special Prize for Women and Science (2009), the American Botanical Council Norman Farnsworth Excellence in Botanical Research Award (2015) among others.