The marine waters around Middle Button Island are rich in biodiversity, hosting numerous coral species, fish, and marine mammals. The park is particularly known for its population of dugongs, dolphins, and various species of sea turtles including the Hawksbill and Green Sea Turtles. The waters are home to diverse fish species, including parrotfish, angelfish, and groupers. The island itself supports various bird species, including sea eagles, kingfishers, and endemic Andaman birds. Saltwater crocodiles are occasionally spotted in the surrounding waters.
The vegetation of Middle Button Island is predominantly tropical evergreen forest, with coastal and littoral forests along the shoreline. The island hosts several species of mangroves and beach vegetation adapted to the marine environment. Notable plant species include Andaman Padauk, Gurjan, and various species of orchids. The coastal areas feature typical beach vegetation including Pandanus, Indian Almond trees, and various palm species. The underwater flora includes diverse seaweed species and sea grass beds that support marine life.
The island is part of the volcanic arc system that extends from Indonesia through the Andaman Islands. It features typical coral island formations with limestone deposits and coral reefs surrounding its shores. The island's terrain is characterized by gentle slopes rising from the coastline, with the highest point reaching approximately 50 meters above sea level. The shoreline consists of coral sand beaches interspersed with rocky outcrops, while the underwater topography includes extensive coral reef systems and shallow marine shelves.
Middle Button Island National Park was established in 1979 to protect its unique marine ecosystem and wildlife. The park, along with North and South Button Islands, forms part of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands' protected area network. The island remained largely uninhabited throughout history, serving primarily as a natural sanctuary for marine life and nesting sea turtles. During World War II, the surrounding waters witnessed naval activities, though the island itself remained relatively untouched due to its small size and protected status.
The park's most distinctive feature is its pristine coral reef ecosystem, which supports a rich variety of marine life and offers excellent opportunities for snorkeling and diving. The clear waters provide visibility up to 30 meters deep, making it ideal for underwater photography and marine life observation. The island's beaches serve as important nesting sites for sea turtles, particularly during the breeding season. The park's small size (approximately 0.64 km²) makes it possible to explore most of its features in a single day, though access is strictly regulated to protect the sensitive ecosystem.
Middle Button Island experiences a tropical monsoon climate typical of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands. The park sees average temperatures between 23°C and 30°C year-round, with high humidity levels of 70-90%. The region experiences two monsoon seasons: the southwest monsoon from May to September and the northeast monsoon from October to December. The best time to visit is between January and April when the weather is relatively dry and calm, making it ideal for marine activities and wildlife observation.
India
12.2830°, 93.0170°
1979
0.64
Middle Button Island National Park is part of the Button Islands in the Andaman archipelago. The park protects a pristine marine ecosystem with coral reefs and mangrove forests. It serves as a nesting site for sea turtles and provides habitat for numerous marine species.