La Graciosa, with its impressive marine and terrestrial biodiversity, is a true paradise in the middle of the Atlantic Ocean. Its crystal-clear waters are home to a wide variety of marine species, while its unique flora and fauna on land add a touch of magic to this remote Canary Island. In this article, we will explore in detail the fascinating flora and fauna of La Graciosa, from its emblematic marine species to its most unique land creatures. Join us on this journey of discovery through the natural heart of La Graciosa!

The flora and fauna of La Graciosa are an integral part of its marine and terrestrial ecosystem, enriching this remote paradise with unique diversity. With optimal climatic conditions and controlled salinity between 36.6 and 36.96 g/100, the surrounding waters of the island host an astonishing variety of marine life.

Marine Fauna

La Graciosa, located in the Canary Islands, is home to a rich diversity of marine fauna due to its crystal-clear waters and location in the Atlantic Ocean. Among the most notable species found in its waters are:

Vertebrates

• Fish: The waters around La Graciosa harbor a variety of fascinating species, including the sargo, vieja, jurel, and barracuda. These fish are common in rocky reefs and kelp areas.
• Cetaceans: The waters around La Graciosa temporarily host several cetaceans, including bottlenose dolphins, common dolphins, and occasionally orcas and sperm whales. These majestic marine mammals are often spotted during boat excursions from the island.
• Sharks and Rays: Although less commonly observed, some species of sharks and rays, such as bull sharks, hammerhead sharks, and eagle rays, can also be found in the surrounding waters.
• Sea Turtles: La Graciosa is part of the migratory route for sea turtles, and during certain times of the year, loggerhead turtles and green turtles can be spotted along the island's shores.

Marine Invertebrates

• Octopuses: The seabeds around La Graciosa provide habitat for octopuses, which camouflage themselves among the rocks and corals.
• Sea Urchins: These invertebrates are common in rocky areas and feed on algae and organic debris.
• Starfish: Several species of starfish can be found in the waters around La Graciosa, adding color and diversity to the marine landscape.

Sea Birds

• Seagulls: Seagulls are common on the beaches and cliffs of La Graciosa, where they feed on fish and other small marine organisms.
• Shearwaters: La Graciosa is home to several species of shearwaters, such as the Balearic shearwater and the puffinus shearwater, which nest in the island's cliffs.
• Cormorants: These aquatic birds can be seen resting on rocks near the coast or diving for fish.

These are just a few of the many marine species found in the waters around La Graciosa. The island offers unique opportunities to explore and discover the beauty and diversity of marine life in the Atlantic.

Additionally, it is home to several endangered species, such as the loggerhead turtle, angel shark, and monk seal.

Terrestrial Fauna

As for the terrestrial fauna of La Graciosa, this island in the Canary Islands presents a more limited biodiversity compared to its rich marine life. Nevertheless, it harbors a number of species adapted to its insular and arid environment. Some of the most notable species include:

Birds

• La Graciosa is a vital refuge for nesting birds, such as the Hubara (Chlamydotis undulada fuerteventurae), the Balearic shearwater (Calonectris diomedea borealis), the Kentish plover (Charadrius alexandrinus), and the Eurasian stone-curlew (Burhinus oedicnemus).
• Birds of Prey: La Graciosa is home to several birds of prey, including the common kestrel, the Eleonora's falcon, and the booted eagle.
• Land Birds: Common land birds include the hubara bustard, the desert lark, the stone-curlew, and others.
• Seabirds: Various species of seabirds also find refuge along the island's coast and cliffs, including gulls, shearwaters, and cormorants.

La Graciosa has been designated as a Special Protection Area for Birds (ZEPA) due to the abundance of migratory birds such as the Balearic shearwater (Calonectris diomedea borealis)—the largest population—along with species like the hoopoe and endangered species such as the kestrel, barn owls, ospreys, and peregrine falcons, among others.

Reptiles

• Lizards: Notable species include the Haría lizard (Gallotia atlantica atlantica) and the Majorero gecko (Tarentola angustimentalis).

Invertebrates

• Insects: The insect fauna in La Graciosa includes beetles and various types of spiders and grasshoppers adapted to life in dry and arid environments.

Mammals

• Rabbits: Rabbits are common on the island and play an important role in the ecosystem as prey for birds of prey.

The terrestrial fauna of La Graciosa, while less visible than the marine life, is equally fascinating and represents an important aspect of the unique ecosystem of this volcanic island.

Flora

The vegetation in La Graciosa resembles that found in the low-lying and coastal areas of the eastern Canary Islands. Shrubs such as gorse and various species of plants that can survive in saline soils dominate, adapted to the arid conditions and subtropical climate of the region. Although this vegetation is more sparse and impoverished compared to other regions, its presence contributes to the biodiversity and unique ecosystem of La Graciosa.

Regarding its terrestrial flora, it is one of the areas with the highest abundance of Macaronesian endemic flora. Among nearly 120 species of lichens and almost 400 taxa of vascular flora, several endemic species stand out, adding a special touch to its biodiversity. Among them are:

• Orobanche gratiosa (Jopo de la Graciosa)
• Allium subhirsutum ssp. obtusipetalum (Tarabaste, cebollín)
• Caralluma buchardii (Colmillo perro, cuernúa)
• Asparagus nesiotes ssp. purpuriense (Esparraguera majorera)
• Limonium papillatum (Siempreviva)
• Limonium puberulum (Siempreviva)
• Kickxia sagittata ssp. subsuculenta
• Echium lancerottense