Wildlife in South and Southeast Asia
Photo: Basile Morin, CC BY-SA 4.0 via Wikimedia Commons
The Indomalayan Biogeographic Region consists of South Asia, Southeast Asia, Taiwan and southern China. The region is tropical and subtropical, with exception of the highlands, where the climate is colder.
6 out of the world's 20 most biodiverse countries are found in this region, making it a wildlife enthusiast's paradise.
UnderstandThe Hindu Kush, the Himalayas, and the Patkai range form the border to the Palearctic region.
MammalsThe Asian elephant (Elephas maximus) is the only elephant species which is regularly tamed, a cruel process which tourists are increasingly choosing not to support (see Chiang Mai#Wildlife for details).
BirdsPheasants (Phasianinae) are characteristic of the region.
ReptilesMonitor lizards (Varanus) can be found in Indonesia, Malaysia and Singapore. They are generally very big lizards, growing up to two meters or even more. Most live on land, but some can swim or climb trees.
PlantsBanyan trees (Ficus benghalensis), also known as "strangler figs", are not unique to this part of Asia, but they're widespread here.
Destinations
See also
Sources and licences
- Guide text adapted from the Wikivoyage article "Wildlife in South and Southeast Asia" by its contributors, available under CC BY-SA 4.0. Read on Wikivoyage · Contributors · CC BY-SA 4.0
- Photo: Basile Morin, CC BY-SA 4.0 via Wikimedia Commons