Socotra is a miraculous island in the Indian Ocean near the coast of Yemen.  It has the richest biodiversity and the most distinct flora and fauna in the world. Being there, you will feel as if you have traveled to another planet, or an ancient time, or another era in the future.

Socotra is one of the four islands of the Socotra Archipelago in the Indian Ocean.  Separated from the African continent about six or seven million years ago, it has been virtually isolated ever since. The long geographic isolation has led to a biological environment with many unique animals & plants of its own.

Socotra has exceptionally rich and distinct flora and fauna. It is home to more than 900 species of plants, 37% of which are endemic to the island.  Ninety percent of its reptile species and 95% of its land snail species cannot be found anywhere else in the world, some of which have existed for about 20 million years.

Globally Socotra is an important habitat for a large population of land and sea birds, including many endangered species.  About 145 species of birds have been spotted here, eight of which have never been seen anywhere else in the world.  The marine life of Socotra is also very diverse, with 253 species of reef-building corals, 730 species of coastal fish and 300 species of crab, lobster and shrimp.

Socotra belongs to Yemen, and was designated a World Natural Heritage Site by UNESCO in July 2008.

Dragon's Blood Tree

Desert Rose

Fig tree

Source：
http://www.hicafe.cn/notes/8727
http://baike.baidu.com/view/407260.htm?fr=ala0_1