Marine
Life

The waters off Langkawi are teeming with life. The islands act as an ecological corridor for aquatic mammals throughout the year. There are at least 4 confirmed marine mammals species in Langkawi, namely Indo-Pacific finless porpoises, Indo-Pacific humpback dolphins, Indo-Pacific bottlenose dolphins and Bryde’s whales. These playful species display interesting dolphin behaviours, from using their flukes to stun their prey, to chasing after big-fin reef squids. Bryde’s whales have also been observed breaching above the water surface. These whales glide majestically through the water, their blows visible even from a distance. Indo-Pacific finless porpoises and Indo-Pacific humpback dolphins are found nearshore around the archipelago, while Bryde’s whales and Indo-Pacific bottlenose dolphins are usually found further offshore. In 2019 the IUCN recognised the waters around Langkawi as an Important Marine Mammal Area.

A popular site to explore Langkawi’s ocean life is Pulau Payar, Malaysia’s oldest marine park. It comprises four uninhabited islands: Payar, Lembu, Kaca and Segantang. Whether it’s swimming, snorkelling, or scuba diving, this marine park offers activities for all. From swimming alongside exotic marine life, like blacktip sharks, giant groupers, moray eels and barracudas, to exploring spectacular rainbow-coloured coral reefs, the aquatic wonders of Pulau Payar are an underwater experience to be cherished.

Photo by MareCet

Photo by MareCet