PORT LAUNAY COASTAL WETLANDS

Port Launay Coastal Wetland, the first mangrove area of the Seychelles, which has been designated since 22 November 2004 to protect the coast of Port Glaud, covering an area of 121 hectares. The Port Launay coastal wetland is one of the best mangrove wetland biotopes on the main island of Mahé, with all seven mangrove species in the region. The mangroves along the coast help stabilise the coastline and the upland areas of the site, granite areas with high drainage, play a major role in the local hydrology.

The coastal area provides ideal spawning grounds, nursery, food and hiding place for fish and is also home to some of the Seychelles' endemic species, such as the goujon (Seychelles killifish), and the freshwater fish Macanbale. The habitat provided by the site is also said to be important for the little known Seychelles Pocket Bat, of which only four active roosting caves are known, one of which is in the area, and for the Seychelles fruit bat. Both belong to the critically endangered species.

In the tributaries to the wetland, live some endemic species of lobster. Fishermen use this area to fish for octopus.

The site is often used for educational activities for school children, especially around the World Wetlands Day.