UNIQUE ECOLOGY

The Kingdom of Tonga was the first South Pacific nation to establish national parks and reserves to protect its unique ecological resources. With special attention the numerous coral reefs north of Tongatapu. Vast areas of natural rain-forest occur on the Niua islands and 'Eua, as well as on other volcanic islands.

Over 100 species of colorful tropical fish dwell in the warm clear waters of the coral reefs. This includes parrot-fish and tiny ultramarine blue damsel fish. Each coral head protecting a cluster of fish. There is an abundance of black coral, and brain coral, looking like a human brain cast about on the sea floor. Visibility in the water unsurpassed, frequently extending beyond 30 meters.

Fragrant tropical flowers of all kinds abound, with many colors of hibiscus, hue delicately scented Datura blossoms, and pink and yellow frangipani.

Unique to Tonga are the giant "flying foxes", fruit bats (Peteropus tonganus). These huge bats sleep in the Casuarina (Ironwood) trees by day around the village of Kolovai. Their wingspan can approach 2 meters.

Conchologists rate Tongan shells as amongst the finest in the Pacific. There is a rich collection of almost all the shells to be found in the Indo-Pacific region. The clear lagoons, colorful reefs and beaches of the Ha'apai group provide the best area for the serious student of shells.