Explore the Lush Flora & Exotic Wildlife of Andaman!

Imagine having a house where nearly 90% of the land is covered with dense tropical forests housing more than 2,200 species of flora and other unique animals. The flora and fauna of Andaman and Nicobar Islands make this region a true natural haven with diversity unlike anywhere else. Nature enthusiasts have the chance to embark on an unforgettable journey into this ecological paradise.

Andaman and Nicobar Island Flora Diversity

Andaman and Nicobar Islands are rich in flora and fauna, ranging from the evergreen forests to mangroves and deciduous trees. Total forest cover of the islands comprises approximately 86.2% of the geographical area, thereby forming multiple habitats which give support to different ecosystems. Now, let’s take a look at some of the important plant species and where they can be found.

1. Important Trees and Plants in Andaman Rainforest

North and Middle Andaman tropical rainforests have a number of species of flora, many of which are ecologically significant.

1. Andaman Padauk – The state tree of Andaman and Nicobar Islands, valued for its strength, long considered the most usable timber found in Middle Andaman. Andaman Red Cedar – Known for its strong timber, mainly found in North Andaman. Dhoop Tree – It provides aromatic resin, making it available throughout the islands, especially South Andaman.
2. Neem – Fairly ubiquitous in the Andamans, primarily in association with anthropogenic habitats because of its medicinal applications.
3. Indian Rosewood – Sporadic distribution in North and Middle Andaman districts
4. Andaman Ironwood – Tropical rainforest, due to the high-density wood
5. Andamanese Pyinma- Known as the Lagerstroemia hypoleuca, it’s the State Flower of Andaman, mainly found in the evergreen forests of North and Middle Andaman.

2. Mangroves 

An Ecosystem for Natural Buffer Scattered over approximately 674 square kilometers, Andaman’s mangroves are one of the most productive ecosystems in the world, creating a natural buffer that safeguards coastlines and supports marine life.

1. Red Mangrove – Fills the coastal areas of Baratang Island, making the coastal areas stable through their prop roots.
2. White Mangrove – found in patchy areas all over the islands, having the function to filter excess salt.
3. Sundari Tree – abundant in Baratang’s Sundarbans type of forest.
4. Cannonball Mangrove – distributed throughout the coastal as well as riverside fringes of Andaman.

As far as unique ecosystems are concerned, Mangroves of Baratang Island can be surely said to be among the most scenic and beautiful ones. With the 5 Nights 6 Days Andaman Package with Baratang, enjoy total peacefulness amidst the diversified landscapes.

Unique Wildlife of Andaman and Nicobar Islands: An Endemic Treasure

Andaman and Nicobar Islands possess exquisite flora and fauna, with over 1,032 endemic species that have developed owing to isolation. Some of these unique species can frequently be found in specified areas.

3. Endemic Mammals of Andaman

There are 46 species of mammals on the islands; most of them live in forests and in protected reserves.

1. Andaman Wild Pig – Found commonly in dense forests across South Andaman.
2. Nicobar Flying Fox – Found in fruit-bearing forests of Nicobar.
3. Dugong – Commonly known as sea cow, feeding on seagrass meadows of Little Andaman and Dugong Creek.

4. Bird Species: Birdwatcher’s Paradise

The flora and fauna of Andaman and Nicobar Islands attract more than 270 bird species. Important places are Mount Harriet National Park, Chidiya Tapu, and forests of Havelock Island.

1. Andaman Wood Pigeon – Thick forests in South Andaman and Mount Harriet.
2. Nicobar Parakeet – Nicobar, with bright green feathers.
3. Andaman Drongo – All over North and South Andaman, mainly in forest regions.

5. Reptiles and Amphibians: Diverse and Unique

The Andaman and Nicobar Islands host diverse and unique reptiles and amphibians that thrive in the tropical climate, mostly in rainforests and water bodies.

1. Andaman Cobra – Habitat to be found throughout the islands, including Little Andaman.
2. Nicobar Monitor Lizard-Primarily in Nicobar, well adapted to coastal and wooded areas
3. Andaman Crayfish Frog-Widespread in South and Middle Andaman rain forests.

6. Coral Reefs and Marine Life

Among the best places to visit for views of the Andaman coral reefs is around Havelock Island, Neil Island, and Mahatma Gandhi Marine National Park. Here, there are more than 1,000 species of fish and over 500 species of corals. Snorkeling and diving with Havelock island tour package can be taken to see the best places underwater.

1. Clownfish – These fish can often be seen swimming around Havelock and Neil Islands near coral sites.
2. Dugong (Sea Cow) – Official state animal of Andaman and Nicobar Islands, grazing in seagrass beds in Little Andaman.
3. Reef Sharks – Divers have often spotted them around the coral reefs on Havelock Island.

Conservation Efforts toward endemic species

Andaman and Nicobar Islands are home to many protected areas due to the sensitive nature of the flora and fauna; there is Mount Harriet National Park and Mahatma Gandhi Marine National Park. These conservation areas are a boon to the preservation of wild species and their habitats, particularly in the face of invasive species and habitat destruction threatening the island’s unique ecosystems. Exploration of these parks reveals not just the geographical beauty of Andaman’s landscapes but underscores the very importance of conservation efforts, as discussed in A Guide to the National Parks in Andaman and Nicobar.

Why Andaman Love is your partner for an unforgettable experience

For a responsible and memorable trip to these islands, Andaman Love is the best. Our well-designed Andaman Tour Packages cater to family vacations, weekend getaways, and many other scuba diving adventures. It does cover a wide range of experiences for thorough island explorations. The 5 Nights 6 Days Andaman Package features the top choices for showing off the captivating landscapes and biodiversity in Andaman.

We even have special honeymoon packages for a more spontaneous and romantic escape. Each package, like the 5 nights 6 days andaman honeymoon package or the extended 6 Nights 7 Days Andaman Package for Honeymoon, is an intimate retreat into Andaman’s lush surroundings.

Over ten years of hospitality experience, Andaman Love has allied itself with the local partners to be able to offer eco-friendly travel options. In this way you will be able to experience the beauty of flora and fauna of andaman and nicobar islands while contributing to preserving these delicate ecosystems.Want to know more about Andman? Read our blog on “Trip To Kalapathar Beach Sunrise in Andaman & Nicobar”