Martinique’s nature is rich and abundant: flowers, fruits, spices… Vegetables, aromatics and spices can be found in the fragrant and colorful Creole cuisine.
Hike Trace des Jésuites Morne-Rouge MartiniqueHike Trace des Jésuites Morne-Rouge Martinique|
A remarkable biodiversity
The fauna of Martinique
The Flower Island
Martinican nature is rich but not without danger. With a minimum of caution, learn how to avoid any problems… As for plants, the mancenilla tree, a widespread seaside tree, the solution is simple: avoid settling or taking shelter under its toxic foliage. Sap, leaves and fruits (which look like small green apples): we especially do not touch under penalty of painful burn!!!
Fauna side, the most widespread enemy remains … the mosquito! Potential vector of tropical diseases such as dengue, chikungunya or zika, the best is to protect yourself especially at the end of the day: clothing, mosquito net, air conditioning, lotions and sprays. Also get rid of all stagnant water near your residence, this prevents the development of aedes larvae.
Stinging or biting of tarantulas (rarely encountered!) and scalpel pests are not fatal but can be very painful: open your eyes and watch where you step…
The only fatal bite is that of the trigonocephalan snake, which is still present in some wetlands and woodlands, but it is extremely rare because the species – endemic to the island – is endangered. Serums and antidotes are available in all pharmacies.
As for the shark, of course there are some in Martinique but as in all the seas of the globe!! To date no fatal attack has been recorded in Martinique. Its flesh is still consumed, even if it is found less and less on Caribbean tables…
