Roatan Information FAQ > Flora and Fauna

What plant life can be found on the Bay Islands?

The favorable climate of the Islands of warm temperature and heavy rainfall supports a variety of plant life and Eco systems. Guanaja was named by Christopher Columbus as the “Island of Pines” after the abundant pine forests on the Islands.


Areas of tropical forest are found on the Islands and are home to a wide range of tropical species. Fruit tress – Hog Plum and Nance, Strangler Fig Trees, Bromeliads, Ferns, Orchids, Bamboo, Palms and many more diverse species are all common sights.

Mangrove forests are found throughout the Islands and play an important role in protecting the coastal areas from storm and hurricane damage. Mangroves also are important breeding grounds for a variety of marine life. Red Mangroves, Black Mangroves, White Mangroves and Buttonwood are the 4 common species of Mangroves on the Islands.

A variety of plants fringe the Islands tropical beaches. Coconut Palms symbolize Caribbean beaches as they do the Islands. A variety of additional plants such as Coco Plums, Sea Grapes, Almond Trees and a variety of vines and bright flowering plants add to the color and attractiveness of the Islands Caribbean Beaches.