Papua New Guinea is considered one of the last wilderness frontiers. It is blanketed in thick rainforest that rolls over steep mountains into deep valleys. Because of its rugged terrain scientists are still discovering the riches of its bio-diversity. Nestled away in these untouched forests lie some of the world's most unique flora and fauna, like the famous bird of paradise. Of the 43 known species, 38 of them are to be found in Papua New Guinea. These brilliantly coloured birds perform bizarre ritualistic mating dances and are much sought after for their decorative feathers. Most of PNG's animals are marsupials and are relatives of those found in Australia. One such creature is the tree kangaroo. While not unlike its Australian counterpart, the tree kangaroo has adapted to life in the forest canopy. But the riches of the rain forest do not stop there. There are about 200 different species of reptiles and 100 types of snakes. PNG is host to a multitude of insects including the Queen Alexandra's bird wing butterfly, the largest in the world. There are 700 different species of butterfly and over 700 bird species including the bowerbird, cassowaries, crowned pigeons, cockatoos and the truly remarkable hornbill known as the kokomo. Take a walk along one of the many tracts that follow the waterways and marvel at the orchids of which PNG has the largest variety. PNG is home to so many spectacular animals and birds that to anchor in one of hundreds of waterways and listen to the comings and goings of the forest creatures is an amazing experience in itself.
Papua New Guinea has some of the most unique marine life in the world. From migrating whales and sea turtles to the smallest filefish, the diversity is endless. Invertebrate marine life encompasses everything from the large brain corals to the elegant stylastes. Diving and snorkeling through these waters gives a privileged insight into a truly pristine environment. PNG's incredible fossil reefs can be found where fringing reefs have repeatedly formed along the rising shoreline and been lifted above the surface of the sea. The best example of such a reef system can be explored along the Huon Peninsula of eastern Papua New Guinea. These fossil reefs sit like giant stairways on a sloping mountainside and several hundred thousand years of reef growth and evolution are fossilized. Those interested in geology particularly are in their element studying these reefs. Niugini Diving adheres to the PNG Divers Association's environmental Code of Ethics to ensure that our country's seabeds, reefs and marine life are conserved and protected. Have a look at Niugini Diving's fabulous expeditions! Find out about fishing the waters of PNG or diving and snorkeling its amazing wrecks and reefs. |
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