In the Maldives, every year around November and December, something amazing happens – millions of dragonflies arrive here. It’s like a magical show that not only looks great in my pictures but also feels special to me. Let me share the story of these dragonflies and why they matter. Dragonflies, with their iridescent wings and […]
Tramea basilaris, commonly known as the Keyhole Glider, is a species of dragonfly in the family Libellulidae. It is widely distributed across tropical and subtropical regions, including the islands of the Maldives. On Noonu Lhohi and various other islands, this species is frequently spotted near water bodies such as ponds, wetlands, and coastal lagoons. The […]
Geograpsus grayi, commonly known as the “Little Nipper,” is a species of land crab belonging to the family Grapsidae. This species is native to the coastal and island environments of the Indo-Pacific, including the Maldives. On the island of Noonu Lhohi, as well as other islands across the Maldives, this crab is often observed at […]
Striated Heron (Butorides striata) – Dhivehi Raaboadhi The Striated Heron, known in Dhivehi as Raaboadhi, is a small, stocky wading bird commonly found across tropical and subtropical regions. With its greyish-green plumage, sharp beak, and relatively short legs compared to other herons, the Striated Heron is well-adapted to its environment, making it a successful predator […]
The breadfruit tree is one of the largest and most significant trees in the Maldives, often found in home gardens and community spaces. These trees can grow up to 26 meters (85 feet) tall, with a broad, spreading canopy that provides shade and shelter. The large, lobed leaves and rough, knobbly fruits are distinctive features […]
Lodoicea maldivica, commonly known as the Maldive coconut, coco de mer, sea coconut, or double coconut, is an extraordinary palm species renowned for its immense seeds and unique cultural history. Despite its name suggesting a connection to the Maldives, this palm is endemic to the Seychelles islands, specifically Praslin and Curieuse. The intriguing tale of […]
Willughby’s Leafcutter Bee (Megachile willughbiella) stands as a vital guardian of biodiversity within the Maldives. Found along the sandy shores, particularly amidst the Magoo Gas (Sea Lettuce), these bees are essential pollinators, contributing significantly to the ecological balance of the islands. Description and Identification: Measuring between 12 to 18 mm in length, Willughby’s Leafcutter Bee […]
The Mud Crab, scientifically known as Scylla serrata, holds a special place in the diverse ecosystem of the Maldives. Often found in mangrove spans and estuaries, these crabs contribute significantly to the coastal habitats of Asia, Australia, and Africa. With their distinctively hard shells and powerful claws, Mud Crabs are known for their prized meat […]
Cardisoma carnifex, affectionately known as the mangrove crab, is a common sight across numerous Maldivian islands. From Kaafu Huraa to Noonu Kendhikolhudhoo, Noonu Lhohi, Noonu Medhuvaru, Noonu Maalhendhoo, Noonu Landhoo, Kaafu Kuda Vilingili, and even as far as Laamu Hithadhoo, these charismatic crustaceans grace the shores with their presence. Understanding Its Classification In the grand […]
In the mangrove areas of the Maldives, one can often spot the captivating Paraleptuca crassipes, also known as the thick-legged fiddler crab. These crabs, once belonging to the Uca genus, were reclassified in 2016 into the Paraleptuca genus. They are commonly sighted in locations like Laamu Hithadhoo and Kaafu Huraa, with reports suggesting their presence […]