Martinique

Martinique is a small island located in the eastern Caribbean Sea, part of the Lesser Antilles, and an overseas region of France. Positioned between the Atlantic Ocean and the Caribbean Sea, Martinique has a tropical climate, with lush mountains in the north and drier lowlands in the south. The island is volcanic in origin, with Mount Pelée as its highest point and a key influence on the island’s ecosystems.

Despite its small size, Martinique has rich biodiversity, shaped by its tropical location, mountainous terrain, and varied habitats—including rainforests, mangroves, savannas, coastal zones, and coral reefs. The island is part of the Caribbean Islands Biodiversity Hotspot, known for its high rate of endemism and species found nowhere else. Unique species include the Martinique oriole, Martinique anole, and several endemic frogs and plants.

Martinique’s marine biodiversity is also notable, with coral reefs, seagrass beds, and a wide variety of tropical fish and marine invertebrates. Several areas are protected through nature reserves, marine parks, and UNESCO biosphere reserves, which help safeguard both terrestrial and marine ecosystems.

Due to its tropical island location and complex ecosystems, Martinique holds important ecological value within the Caribbean region, despite ongoing challenges such as habitat degradation and invasive species.