Morinda citrifolia, commonly known as the noni fruit or locally in the Maldives as “Ahivah,” stands as a testament to the rich botanical diversity of the region. Belonging to the coffee family, Rubiaceae, this fruit-bearing tree boasts a significant presence in Southeast Asia and Australasia, with its seeds spread across the Pacific by Polynesian sailors. […]
Discovering a Dragonfly: In my island, Noonu Atoll Lhohi, we encounter a special creature known as the Valhu Munnyama or Slender Skimmer dragonfly. This small wonder adds to the beauty of our surroundings and is an essential part of our island’s diverse wildlife. Simple Facts: Life in Noonu Atoll Lhohi: How It Behaves: Family Matters: […]
In the days of our childhood, the Asian Koel, locally known as “Koveli” in Dhivehi, was a common sight in the Maldives. Often found in the company of crows, this bird, a member of the cuckoo order, Cuculiformes, holds a unique place in our island memories. Key Details: Taxonomy: Described by the English naturalist George […]
Castor Oil Plant (Ricinus communis) in Maldives: A Biodiversity Insight In the beautiful Maldives, you’ll come across the Castor Oil Plant, locally called Aamanaka. It’s a sturdy shrub from the Euphorbiaceae family, making its mark in the local environment and history. Key Details: Description: The Castor Oil Plant is a hardy, branched shrub with glaucous […]
Introduction: In the lively city of Hulhumale, a part of the Maldives capital, there’s a tree known as Javvahiru, or the Butterfly Tree. You can spot it in parks and along some roads, making the urban landscape a bit more green and lively. Butterfly Tree is a deciduous tree of moderate size, reaching heights of […]
Introduction: In the beautiful islands of the Maldives, there’s a special plant known as Hihthala (Tacca leontopetaloides). It’s not just a pretty flower; it’s a plant that connects with the culture and nature of the Maldives. Origins and Migration: Hihthala comes from Southeast Asia and traveled to the Maldives a long time ago with seafaring […]
In Noonu Lhohi and throughout the Maldives, the Kandoo tree is a familiar sight. From my childhood, I remember large Kandoo trees being cut down for building fishing boats. The wood is tough and sturdy, perfect for boat construction. Local Name: KandooCommon Name: Small-leaved Orange MangroveScientific Name: Bruguiera cylindrica Did you know? Key Details: Traditional […]
In the Maldives, we have a common weed known as Fenkumburuvaani and Kambulic in Dhivehi. Its scientific name is Vernonia cinerea, belonging to the Asteraceae/Compositae family. Introduction: Let’s talk about the Ash-Coloured Fleabane, a tiny plant that you’ve probably seen around. Locally, we call it Fenkumburuvaani or Kambulic, and scientifically it’s known as Vernonia cinerea. […]
In the serene coastal landscapes of the Maldives, where land, beach, and mangrove areas converge, a hidden gem reveals itself—the Tetragonal Fiddler Crab (Gelasimus tetragonon). As a witness to the diverse crustacean life in these regions, I’ve been captivated by the beauty and unique behaviors of this small but remarkable fiddler crab species. Join me […]
Findhana – Common Sandpiper of the Maldives In the tranquil landscapes of the Maldives, a feathered resident graces the shores and shallow waters with its elegant presence—the Findhana, commonly known as the Common Sandpiper. With the scientific name Actitis hypoleucos, this small Palearctic wader contributes to the ecological richness of the region, engaging in fascinating […]