L Gaadhoo, a previously inhabited island, was declared as an uninhabited in 2016. The protected areas of this island are as stated below: The southern and western shores and the surrounding reef and seagrass. This is an area in the Maldives where turtles have laid eggs and hatched for generations. Green turtles (‘Vela’/Chelonia mydas) and Hawksbill turtles (‘Kahan’bu’/Eretmochelys imbricate) are the most commonly recorded turtle species to lay eggs here. They are both endangered species and protected under the environmental protection act in the Maldives, and are also considered endangered globally. The seagrass surrounding the island is an important source of food for turtles. Moreover, it is a crucial environment for reef fish to breed. It is also a ‘carbon sink’ which can help reduce global warming. In the seagrass area surrounding this island, 6 types of seagrass and 91 species of reef fish have been recorded. The mangorve in this island is a freshwater lake located in the wetland area on the east side. Areas such as this play a vital role in keeping the water lens of the island fresh and lowers the chance of flooding. Black mangroves (Burevi) can be found growing in large numbers in this area. Moreover. This island is essential for the seasonal birds and to maintain the environment of protected birds.