Bora Bora is a small South Pacific island northwest of Tahiti in French Polynesia. Surrounded by sand-fringed islets and a turquoise lagoon protected by a coral reef, Bora Bora is known for it’s breathtakingly beautiful marine environment. A diverse array of marine species plays a critical role in maintaining the structure, function, and stability of marine ecosystems. These species often have significant ecological importance and can have wide-ranging effects on other organisms within their ecosystem. Read on to learn more about our Top 7 key marine species of Bora Bora.
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1. Reef-building Corals
Coral reefs are the foundation of many marine ecosystems in French Polynesia, providing habitat for numerous marine species and protecting coastlines from erosion
2. Giant Clams
These large molluscs are not only important for the biodiversity of coral reef ecosystems but also contribute to nutrient cycling and sediment stability
3. Sharks
French Polynesia is known for its shark populations, including species like reef sharks, lemon sharks, and tiger sharks. Sharks play a vital role in maintaining the health of coral reef ecosystems by regulating prey populations and maintaining balance within the food web
4. Manta Rays
These majestic creatures are commonly found in the waters of French Polynesia and contribute to the health of marine ecosystems through filter feeding, which helps control plankton populations
5. Humpback Whales
During the winter months, humpback whales migrate to French Polynesia to breed and calve in its warm waters. Their presence is not only a significant tourist attraction but also important for nutrient cycling and ecosystem health
6. Sea Turtles
Several species of sea turtles, including green turtles and hawksbill turtles, inhabit the waters of French Polynesia. These turtles help maintain the health of seagrass beds and coral reefs through grazing and contribute to nutrient cycling through their movements
7. Napoleon wrasse
This large, colourful fish is an iconic species of the Indo-Pacific and plays a role in maintaining the health of coral reef ecosystems by controlling the populations of reef invertebrates
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