Endemic Plants belonging to a Paradise Island - Mauritius

Abstract

Mauritius is an island located in the Indian Ocean near Reunion and Rodrigues islands. Its large lagoons lined with fine white sand are the embodiment of paradise. However apart from quintessential landscape lies some endemic plants that noone will imagine. Forests and trees have always been of great importance to mankind since prehistoric days. They perform vital functions that have been broadly classified into environmental, economic and sociocultural values. They are important, valuable and necessary to our very existence. It’s not too hard to believe that, without them we human would not exist on this beautiful planet. Although the forests of Mauritius are small in area, they perform vital functions such as the conservation of soil, water and biodiversity. They are essential to life and are the ground troops on an environmental frontline. Our existing forests and the trees we plant work in tandem to make a better world. People enjoy and appreciate fresh air, clear water, beautiful scenery and wildlife. This review will focus on some of the endemic plants belonging to Mauritius such as Trochetia boutoniana, Bois Colophane Batard, Hyophorbe amaricaulis, Mandrinette, Bois de Chevre and Tetrataxis salicifolia.