Biodiversity
Due to its 88-million-year isolation from the rest of the world, Madagascar has tremendous biodiversity and high rates of endemic species: of more than 200,000 known species found on Madagascar, more than 80 percent exist nowhere else.
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Here is a list of some unique species you could never see elsewhere but Madagascar, except in the zoo, of course.
Lemur
Lemur
There are more than thirty species of Lemurs in Madagascar today that vary in size from 25 gms pygmy lemur to the largest Indri Lemur weighing more than 12 kgs.
Comet Moth
Comet Moth
Comet moth is one of the most beautiful moths in the world found only in Madagascar. They are among the largest in the world with a wing span that extends to 20 cm coming only second after the Atlas moth of Asia.
Madagascar Fody
Madagascar Fody
The male has a bright red plumage and some black markings around the eyes. The plumage varies widely from orange to yellowish and during mating the males undergo molting and plumage change to olive brown that look like the females.
Lowland Streaked Tenrec
Lowland Streaked Tenrec
It has a long pointed snout, vestigial tail, and limbs. Its pelage is black with yellow stripes and bright beneath and scattered quills on its body. It is active both during the day and night and feeds primarily on insects.
Fossa
Fossa
The animal has a slender body and appears more like a cat with little resemblance to their relative mongoose.Fossa uses it long tail like a tightrope walking pole to move swiftly through trees.
Satanic Leaf-Tailed Gecko
Satanic Leaf-Tailed Gecko
It is a stunning reptile that can disguise itself in its environment. The body can blend and mimics dead leaves in its habitat so that it cannot be identified by its predators.
Madagascar Hissing Cockroache
Madagascar Hissing Cockroache
During the conflict, the roaches hiss, and that is where they got their name. The cockroach that wins the battle hiss more than the loser and the same hissing is heard during the mating ritual.
Madagascar Long-Eared Owl
Madagascar Long-Eared Owl
Madagascar Long-Eared Owl is characterized by a brownish crown and nap on the upper part while the underneath has a black streaking. It also has a brown facial disc and dark brown ear tuff.
Panther Chameleon
Panther Chameleon
It is one of the most colorful with widest color variations of all the chameleons, they are also larger and the most sought after by reptile keepers and traders.
Tomato Frog
Tomato Frog
They are found only in Madagascar, mainly in the northwestern region of the island. They ooze off some white sticky mucus when threatened, though they are not toxic, they are irritating to the mucous membrane.
Aye-aye
Aye-aye
Aye-aye is a nocturnal primate living primarily on trees. Their big toes and long tails allow them to hang comfortably on the tree while they use their echolocation to find food such as insects.
Painted Mantella
Painted Mantella
Painted Mantella is an attractive frog with green, black, yellow or orange color. The species which is grouped under common frogs is found only in East and Central Madagascar.
Let's Explore Madagascar
Basic Info
Get to know better about this country. Location, historical background, people and more.
Geology
How did this island form? What were the key depositional and tectonic settings behind it.
Biodiversity
Hiding in dense rain forest of isolated island live exotic animals to be encountered.
Tourist Attractions
Where to visit.
What to eat.
When to go.