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Flora and Fauna

Guinea-Bissau is home to an incredible variety of plants and animals, thriving in its diverse landscapes. The country’s landscapes range from coastal mangroves to inland savannas, supporting a rich variety of life. Along the coast, mangrove forests provide a vital habitat for marine life, including the West African manatee and saltwater crocodile. The Bijagós Archipelago serves as a breeding ground for green sea turtles and hosts large flocks of migratory birds, such as flamingos and pelicans.

Inland, dense forests and open savannas support many unique species. Western chimpanzees and king colobus monkeys swing through the trees, while leopards and hyenas prowl the grasslands. Antelope such as the bushbuck and red-flanked duiker roam the countryside. Birdlife is equally impressive, with colourful turacos and hornbills brightening the forests.

The country’s plant life is just as remarkable. Towering baobabs store water in their thick trunks, providing life during the dry season. Mangroves protect the coastline and serve as fish nurseries. Guinea-Bissau is also rich in fruit-bearing trees, such as cashew trees and oil palms, which are essential to both the environment and local economy.

Many of these plants are used for trade and industry. Cashew trees are the country’s main cash crop, with cashew nuts being a major export. Oil palms provide palm oil, which is used for cooking and manufacturing. Timber from Guinea-Bissau’s forests is also harvested, though deforestation remains a concern. Additionally, medicinal plants such as the African locust bean tree (Parkia biglobosa) are traditionally used for healing and are sometimes sold in local markets.

Despite its natural wealth, Guinea-Bissau faces challenges such as deforestation and illegal hunting. Conservation efforts, particularly in national parks and protected areas, are crucial for preserving the country’s unique biodiversity for future generations.

Portuguese Guinea, Issued 1953: Beetles series - 5 centavo, Long-horned Borer Beetle (Analeptes trifasciata).

Portuguese Guinea, Issued 1953: Beetles series - 10 centavo, Shield-backed Bug (Callidea panaethiopica).

Issued 1983: African Monkey series - 3.5 peso, Gelada (Theropithecus gelada).

Issued 1983: African Monkey series - 8 peso, Chimpanzee (Pan troglodytes).

Issued 1983: Flower series - 1 peso, (Canna coccinea).

Issued 1983: Fish series - 1.5 peso, Clown Loach (Botia macracantha).

Issued 1983: Fish series - 3.5 peso, Spotted Ctenopoma (Ctenopoma acutirostre).

Issued 1983: Fish series - 5 peso, Berthold's Killi (Roloffia bertholdi).