Dharavandhoo
About Dharavandhoo
Island Information
Administrative
- Island Name
- Dharavandhoo
- Island Code
- B
- Atoll
- South Maalhosmadulu
- Island Type
- Residential Island
- Regulating Authority
- Council
- Primary Agency
- Council
Environmental Sites
Documented ecosystems and environmental sites on Dharavandhoo.
Mathifaru Hura
DocumentedMarine Protected Area / Protected Island / Sandbank
This multi-habitat zone contains a coral reef with moderate biodiversity, a vegetated islet, and a seasonal sandbank. It offers useful conditions for long-term monitoring of reef-island interactions and sandbank mobility under changing climatic conditions.
Hanifaru Area
DocumentedWetland
Hanifaru Bay is a funnel-shaped reef bay that concentrates plankton, attracting seasonal aggregations of manta rays and whale sharks. The site is protected under strict regulations and is important for studying megafauna behavior, reef plankton dynamics, and human-wildlife interaction thresholds.
Bathalaa Region
DocumentedMarine Protected Area / Protected Island / Sandbank
The Bathalaa region integrates a healthy coral reef system, a small island, and a sandbank. Coral cover is structurally complex, attracting a variety of reef fish and invertebrates. Terrestrial areas are used by nesting birds, while sand movement is of interest for geomorphological studies.
The Wreck Of "CORBIN"
DocumentedMarine Protected Area (MPA)
The Corbin wreck site, located near Goidhoo Atoll southwest of Dharavandhoo, is a designated marine protected area due to its rich historical and ecological value. The French galleon Corbin sank in 1602 after running aground on a reef, and its remnants now rest in shallow waters. The site preserves coral-encrusted anchors and cannon, offering insight into early European navigation in the Indian Ocean. Surrounded by vibrant reefs and seagrass beds, the area supports diverse marine life, including turtles and reef fish. Its shallow, sheltered geography makes it ideal for eco-conscious divers and snorkelers exploring both history and marine biodiversity.
Dharavandhoo Thila Area
DocumentedMarine Protected Area (MPA)
Dharavandhoo Thila, part of the reef system around Dharavandhoo, has long been a source of reef fish for the community. Nutrient flows sustain lush coral and pelagic life, and the site is integral to local fishing traditions and ecological balance.
Quick Stats
- Sites
- 5
- Zones
- 0
- Plots
- 0