Native Animals of Tahiti:
Tahiti, like many Polynesian islands, has a limited diversity of native terrestrial animals due to its isolation. However, it boasts a rich marine ecosystem. Here are some notable examples:
Birds:
* Tahitian Monarch (Pomarea nigra): This critically endangered bird is unique to Tahiti.
* Tahitian Fruit Dove (Ptilinopus coralensis): Another endemic species, known for its bright orange and green plumage.
* Tahitian Parrot (Cyanoramphus ulietanus): This species is sadly extinct in the wild, but there are captive breeding programs.
* Polynesian Triller (Lalage maculosa): A common sight in Tahiti, with distinctive black and white plumage.
Reptiles:
* Tahitian Gecko (Hoplodactylus pacificus): A small, nocturnal gecko found throughout the island.
* Pacific Boa (Candoia bibroni): A non-venomous constrictor that is the largest terrestrial reptile in Tahiti.
Insects:
* Tahitian Stick Insect (Acanthoxyla prasina): A large, green insect with a distinctive appearance.
* Tahitian Land Snail (Partula otaheitensis): This species is sadly extinct in the wild due to introduced predators.
Marine Life:
* Various species of fish: Tahiti is home to a wide variety of reef fish, including colorful parrotfish, angelfish, and butterflyfish.
* Sharks: Blacktip reef sharks, grey reef sharks, and tiger sharks are common in Tahitian waters.
* Whales and dolphins: Humpback whales visit Tahitian waters during their breeding season, and various dolphin species are resident.
* Coral reefs: The island has extensive coral reefs, which provide a habitat for a huge array of marine life.
Native Plants of Tahiti:
Tahiti has a unique flora, with many endemic species. Here are some examples:
Trees:
* Tahitian Chestnut (Inocarpus fagifer): A large tree that produces edible nuts.
* Tahitian Mango (Mangifera indica): While not native to Polynesia, the Tahitian Mango cultivar is renowned for its sweet flavor.
* Breadfruit (Artocarpus altilis): A staple food source in Polynesia, with large, starchy fruit.
* Banyan (Ficus benghalensis): A large, fig tree with a distinctive, spreading canopy.
Flowers:
* Tiare Tahiti (Gardenia taitensis): The national flower of Tahiti, known for its fragrant white blossoms.
* Hibiscus (Hibiscus rosa-sinensis): A vibrant flower found in various colors, commonly used in leis.
* Frangipani (Plumeria rubra): A tropical tree with highly fragrant, delicate flowers.
Other plants:
* Kava (Piper methysticum): A plant with psychoactive roots used in traditional ceremonies.
* Coconut Palm (Cocos nucifera): A versatile tree, providing food, drink, and building materials.
* Pandanus (Pandanus tectorius): A large, spiny tree with edible fruit and leaves used for weaving.
Note: Many introduced species have become naturalized in Tahiti, making it difficult to distinguish truly native species from those that have been introduced. However, the plants and animals listed above are considered to be native to Tahiti.