Monday, March 3, 2008

Mauritius Underwater Photos-Indian Ocean Paradise








Mauritius is a land of extraordinary colour, character and fantastic natural beauty. This volcanic, tropical paradise in the Indian Ocean is a delight to explore, from its inland subtropical forests, rivers, streams and mountain ranges to the clear ocean lagoons and palm-fringed beaches surrounded by coral reefs.

This natural haven is home to some of the world's rarest plants and animals. But human habitation and the introduction of non-native species have threatened its indigenous flora and fauna, such as the dodo, which became extinct in the 17th century. The Mauritians are rightly proud of their island home, and the harmonious mix of cultures and traditions (and culinary skills!) amongst its Asian, Creole African and European peoples.

Mauritius is an island nation off the coast of the African continent in the southwest Indian Ocean, about 560 miles east of Madagascar.