Ecology

The Fiji group comprises of more than 300 islands, with the largest being Viti Levu, followed by Vanua Levu. Fiji’s lands mass is volcanic in origin, with the main islands being generally mountainous towards their interiors. This topography creates a rain shadow effect; and consequently induces much drier climates on the western sides of both Viti Levu, and Vanua Levu. Fiji’s unexploited terrain accommodates a myriad of habitats and ecological niches for numerous endemic flora and fauna; and these include lowland and mountainous forest, mangroves and swamps, varied grasslands and inland waters. The ocean environment includes coral reefs, lagoons, and deep pelagic areas.

Flora of Fiji

The various rainfall patterns are largely responsible for the variety of vegetation in Fiji. The wetter sides of the high islands are covered in dense forests, with some thickets of bamboo and scrub. Coastal plains are covered with coconut groves. In the drier sides coarse grasslands are prevalent. Sugarcane is planted in the lowlands, whilst pine has been planted in the many dry, hilly areas. Mangroves are also found along some high island coastal lagoons.

Fauna of Fiji

Fiji has 22 species of endemic land birds and some of these are the Kaka (Parrot), Ga (gray duck), Kikau (giant honey eater), and the Red and Green kula Lorikeets. The only native mammals are the monkey-faced fruit bat, and the insect-eating bat. Three of the worlds seven species of sea turtles currently nest in Fiji; the green, hawksbill, and leatherback turtles.      

Environment

Fiji consists of more than 300 islands which are located in the South Pacific. The islands themselves lie south of the equator, just north of the tropic of Capricorn, and west of the international dateline. Viti Levu and Vanua Levu are the biggest islands; with Viti Levu having the countries highest peak- Mt. Tomanivi (Mt. Victoria). There are numerous smaller islands which are relatively untouched; and these harbor many beautiful reefs, lagoons, harbors, as well as natural vegetation. Deforestation has brought about the clearing of 15% of the countries forests, and has resulted in the erosion and detriment of the environment through poor management. Consequently, pollution and waste continue to taint the waterways around the urban areas, particularly around Suva.

Geography

Fiji is located in the tropical region of the southern hemisphere. The islands themselves lie on the 189ú  meridian, and bear witness to the dawning of each new day. The Fiji group is made up of over 300 islands, with only 100 or so islands being inhabited by humans; and the rest being left as nature reserves. The two major islands in the group are known as Viti Levu and Vanua Levu, with about 80 percent of the population living in these two islands. Only 40 percent of the population resides in urban areas.

Climate

Fiji experiences relatively stable and mild climate for the most part of the year and this is attributed to the large expanses of open water that surrounds its islands. The weather varies between island regions, and this is due to prevailing trade winds from the south east which trap clouds over the mountainous interiors of the islands, and produce rain on their windward sides. Fiji’s wet season extends from November through to April, but rain falls throughout the year. Daytime temperatures average around 25ú C (77ú F) and the humidity is generally high. Tropical cyclones can blow up between November and April; however, these are rarely dangerous.