Rasdhoo
About Rasdhoo
Island Information
Administrative
- Island Name
- Rasdhoo
- Island Code
- AA
- Atoll
- North Ari Atoll
- Island Type
- Residential Island
- Regulating Authority
- Council
- Primary Agency
- Council
Environmental Sites
Documented ecosystems and environmental sites on Rasdhoo.
Karibeyru Region
DocumentedMarine Protected Area (MPA)
Part of the larger Rasdhoo marine protected area network, the Karibeyru Region covers approximately 3.55 km². It includes fringing reefs, coral slopes, and sandy bottoms that support vibrant reef life. Known for frequent manta ray visits, especially during plankton blooms, it plays a critical role in sustaining coral reef ecosystems and pelagic feeding routes. The area's geography includes shallow lagoons and drop-offs, providing ideal conditions for both reef regeneration and snorkeling or research-based eco-tourism.
Kudarah Thila
DocumentedMarine Protected Area (MPA)
A compact but ecologically rich MPA, Kudarah Thila covers around 0.34 km². Its pinnacle-like structure features coral overhangs, caves, and densely populated reef walls. A prime site for soft corals and sea fans, it attracts schools of sweetlips, groupers, and reef sharks. The thila's strategic location within ocean currents makes it a biodiversity magnet and a key refuge for marine species. Though small, its environmental and dive value is internationally recognized, often cited among the Maldives’ best thilas.
Orimas Thila Region
DocumentedMarine Protected Area (MPA)
Orimas Thila, spanning about 0.39 km², is known for its dynamic reef life and large schooling fish. The reef top hosts dense coral gardens, while deeper ledges and slopes support species like eagle rays and reef sharks. The site also has historical reef fishing significance for local communities. Protected for its biological productivity, it is vital for reef health monitoring and sustainable marine tourism, particularly for responsible diving operations seeking encounters with large reef predators.
Maaya Thila
DocumentedMarine Protected Area (MPA)
A classic Maldivian pinnacle, Maaya Thila encompasses roughly 0.38 km². Rising from 30 meters to just under 10 meters, its circular thila supports soft coral, overhangs, and resident marine life including turtles, moray eels, and white-tip reef sharks. Strong currents bring in nutrients, making it a nocturnal diving favorite. Its geographic isolation enhances ecological value, functioning as a micro-reef habitat ideal for conservation education and structured dive experiences.
Rasdhoo Madivaru Area
DocumentedCovering approximately 3.79 km², Rasdhoo Madivaru includes coral slopes, sandbanks, and channels. It’s famous for pelagic sightings such as hammerhead sharks at dawn, manta rays, and schooling barracuda. The mix of reef and sandbank habitats supports both benthic and pelagic biodiversity. The site’s structure and current exposure make it ecologically critical, supporting fish migration and coral regeneration. It serves both ecological and educational tourism purposes, acting as a model site for atoll-edge marine biodiversity.
Quick Stats
- Sites
- 5
- Zones
- 0
- Plots
- 0