Red-eyed Reef Crab (Eriphia smithii)

Red-eyed Reef Crab (Eriphia smithii)

The marine life around Socotra is rich and diverse, but I am focusing on the flora and fauna on land. However, I had a short window of opportunity during low…


Violet Zoanthids (Zoanthus sansibaricus)

Violet Zoanthids (Zoanthus sansibaricus)

Socotra's biodiversity on land is undisputed and world famous, but it is equally diverse on the coast and in the sea. I am focusing on the terrestrial realm…


Tragia balfourii

Tragia balfourii

Tragia balfourii is endemic to Socotra.


Angkalanthus oligophylla

Angkalanthus oligophylla

Angkalanthus oligophylla is an inconspicuous plant when not in bloom. This specimen has been hit severely by the insatiable and ever present goats, but has…


Garden Harlequin (Eulophia petersii)

Garden Harlequin (Eulophia petersii)

The vertical walls of Dirhur canyon is the only place I've found Garden Harlequin (Eulophia petersii). This is a very healthy colony with old inflorescences to…


Vernonia unicata

Vernonia unicata

A Vernonia unicata tree that is thriving in a crack in the wall of Dirhur canyon of Socotra. My first and only encounter of this rare species. endemic to…


Polycarpaea hayoides

Polycarpaea hayoides

My first encounter with Polycarpaea hayoides on Socotra, one that thrives in even the smallest of cracks in the canyon walls. Here it is in the shade most of…


Plocama puberula

Plocama puberula

My first encounter with Plocama puberula. It's growing in a crack of the wall of Dirhur canyon, where it is accessing water seepage that lasts long after the…


Perry's Aloe (Aloe perryi)

Perry’s Aloe (Aloe perryi)

Perry's Aloe (Aloe perryi) is a common species on Socotra, and you'll likely see them in all vegetative stages ranging from in severely lack of water to huge,…