Vaavu (V)
Not listed.
Vaavu Ruhhuri Hura is a non-inhabited island situated in a separate lagoon inside the atoll, covering an area of 0.5 hectares. The island features a small wetland in the middle with various species of mangroves and Pemphis plants. The surrounding reef area hosts a wide variety of coral species, and different species of sea cucumbers are spotted in the reef. However, only a few families of fish species have been found in this region, with Planktivore fishes being the most common. The lack of fish species may be attributed to poor reef health caused by coral bleaching.
This environment is crucial for the preservation of protected birds, migratory birds, and fish species in the Maldives. The wetland area on the island refreshes the water table and plays a vital role in reducing the risk of erosion. Additionally, these wetlands act as 'carbon sinks,' storing carbon dioxide to mitigate global warming.