If you’ve ever visited Komodo National Park, or read about its natural beauty, you would understand why it’s a site that requires our attention and protection. For Indonesia, the Komodo National Park is a valuable asset for ecotourism which the government supports through the Ministry of Forestry.
UNESCO World Heritage
Komodo National Park refers to the collection of islands that includes Rinca Island, Padar Island, Komodo island and 26 other smaller islands. The national park was first founded in 1980 with the purpose of protecting the largest lizard on the planet, the Komodo Dragon.
However, it is now dedicated to protecting the flora and fauna of the entire national park. In 1991, the national park was declared as a UNESCO World Heritage Site due to the rare species of fauna that are found in the water, as well as another rich marine biodiversity in the waters surrounding the island.
Wildlife Conservation
As we prefaced above, the Komodo National Park is a site with a special terrestrial and marine ecosystem, it is also the only home to the giant monitor lizards, the Komodo Dragon. The Komodo has evolved and adapted to sustain itself with the given environmental factors. In fact, the Komodo Dragon is considered to be the apex predator in the national park due it being highest in the food chain – only surpassed by humans.
In addition to the Komodo Dragons, the Komodo National Park is also home to other unique terrestrial species such as the orange-footed scrub fowl, rats that are endemic to the island and the Timor Deer. All these factors contribute to the valid World Heritage site status that is bestowed upon the Komodo National Park.
We hope this article has given you some insight into the importance of conserving wildlife and fauna. In addition to being a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Komodo National Park is also listed as one of the seven wonders of nature – all the more reason to admire it!
Are you planning a trip to Komodo Islands? Reach out to us at Aqura Dive, and our team can point you in the right direction and get you on your way!
