Astola Island facts for kids
Astola Island, also known as Jezira Haft Talar, which means 'Island of the Seven Hills' in Urdu, is an island in the Arabian Sea. It is a special place because no one lives there permanently. This island is part of Pakistan. It is located about 25 kilometers (about 15.5 miles) south of Pakistan's nearest coastline. It is also about 39 kilometers (about 24 miles) southeast of the fishing town called Pasni.
Astola is Pakistan's largest island that is not connected to the mainland. It is also the only big island in the northern part of the Arabian Sea. The island covers an area of about 6.7 square kilometers (about 2.6 square miles). For administrative purposes, Astola Island belongs to the Pasni area, which is part of Gwadar District in the Balochistan province of Pakistan.
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Discovering Astola Island
Astola Island is a unique natural wonder. It stands out because it is the biggest offshore island in Pakistan. Being "offshore" means it is located away from the main coast, out in the sea. Its size makes it very important for the local environment and for understanding the geography of the region.
Location and Size
Astola Island is situated in the Arabian Sea, which is a part of the larger Indian Ocean. Its exact position, south of Pakistan's coast, makes it a distant and isolated place. The island's size, about 6.7 square kilometers, means it is big enough to have different types of land and habitats, even though it is not huge.
Why is it called 'Island of the Seven Hills'?
The name Jezira Haft Talar means 'Island of the Seven Hills'. This name comes from the way the island looks. It has several small hills or raised areas that can be seen from the sea. These hills give the island its unique shape and appearance. This name helps people remember its distinct features.
Life on Astola Island
Even though no humans live on Astola Island, it is full of life. It is an important home for many different plants and animals. The island's isolated location helps protect these species. It is like a natural sanctuary where wildlife can thrive without much disturbance from people.
Plants and Animals
Astola Island has a special environment that supports various types of plants. These plants are often adapted to grow in dry, rocky conditions. The island is also a nesting site for many kinds of birds. Some birds use the island to lay their eggs and raise their young.
Marine Life Around the Island
The waters around Astola Island are also very rich in marine life. There are many different fish, crabs, and other sea creatures living in the surrounding ocean. The island's reefs and rocky shores provide shelter and food for these animals. This makes the area important for marine biodiversity.
Protecting Astola Island
Because Astola Island is so important for nature, efforts are made to protect it. It is recognized as a special area that needs to be conserved. Protecting the island helps keep its unique plants and animals safe for the future.
A Ramsar Site
Astola Island is listed as a Ramsar site. A Ramsar site is a wetland of international importance. This means it is recognized globally for its ecological value, especially for water birds. Being a Ramsar site helps bring attention and resources to protect the island's natural habitats.
Importance for the Environment
The island's untouched nature makes it a valuable place for scientists to study. They can learn about how ecosystems work without human interference. It also plays a role in the health of the Arabian Sea's environment. Protecting Astola Island helps protect the wider marine ecosystem.
Images for kids
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Astola Island, Balochistan
See also
In Spanish: Isla Astola para niños
