Kihaadhoo
Residential Island
Code: B
About Kihaadhoo
Over 80% of Kihaadhoo’s landmass is covered in dense tropical vegetation, offering vital habitat for birds and pollinators. The island spans 30.77 hectares and is home to around 445people. The island has a registered population of 541 people. Just 3.1 km from Hanifaru Bay, it’s an ideal location for marine research and eco-tourism. Its fringing reef is teeming with marine life, including parrotfish, green turtles, and eagle rays. Kihaadhoo supports thatch weaving and reef fishing as traditional livelihoods, but now also hosts 6 guesthouses focused on conservation-centered travel. While it has no mangroves, it does possess expansive seagrass beds and a shaded coastal fringe. A mosque, school, and health post serve residents. Community coral propagation, plastic recycling, and reef monitoring programs are ongoing. With a vibrant reef system and lush greenery, Kihaadhoo is an emerging model of sustainable, community-driven conservation within the UNESCO Biosphere Reserve.
Island Information
Administrative
- Island Name
- Kihaadhoo
- Island Code
- B
- Atoll
- South Maalhosmadulu
- Island Type
- Residential Island
- Regulating Authority
- Council
- Primary Agency
- Council
Environmental Sites
Documented ecosystems and environmental sites on Kihaadhoo.
Dhigali Haa and Dhigili Giri
DocumentedMarine Protected Area (MPA)
Near Kihaadhoo Island, Dhigali Haa is known for deep coral slopes and pelagic encounters. Dhigili Giri features sheltered reef environments. These paired sites offer contrasting conditions valuable for comparative reef health assessments.
5.3000, 73.0000
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Quick Stats
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- Zones
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- Plots
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