| Journey Through Aldabra |
|
At a time when natural habitats are disappearing rapidly and inexorably, the Aldabra atoll stands out as a paradise of conservation, a magical place where wildlife has survived the ravages of time and man over millions of years. Coral atolls are formed with the slow sinking of the land and the subsequent rise in sea corals. The coral have their roots in the rocks. Their sharp projections, which are capable of cutting through anything, forces visitors to keep off, while at the same time creating a safe haven for fish and other marine species that have found refuge in these uninhabited islands even as they continue to disappear in other parts of the world. The island is home to the largest concentration of giant tortoise in the world. Their population is around 150,000, many times more than that of the world famous Pacific Ocean island of Galapagos, where only a few thousand of these tortoises still exist. Here in Aldabra, they are entirely at peace. In this unique environment, the giant tortoise plays the same role as the elephant does elsewhere. Their constant and vigorous search for food helps other species find way around. A giant male tortoise can weigh up to 250 kilograms. This majestic atoll, which has already been declared a World Heritage Site by the UNESCO, is also home to other animal species, of which most of them are protected as they are in danger of extinction. Many species of birds found in Aldabra have their origins in Madagascar, the giant neighbor, off the East African coast. However, over time, these birds have evolved and developed their own unique colors and characteristics. The whole island is covered by a succulent carpet of vegetation. Under the water is yet another world, even richer than the island and barely explored by humans. Some reefs are so unknown that a recent report revealed the existence of more than 185 different species in an area just under 3 square kilometers. The conservation of this underwater environment is largely attributable to the fame and reputation of the green turtles, which are highly protected. The influence of the hand of man has not yet been felt in the Aldabra atoll. At a time when many natural habitats of the same class and wealth are continuing to gradually disappear around the world, the Aldabra paradise remains largely untouchable, stashed away from everything, away from everyone.  |
