CHRISTMAS ISLAND Meaning and
Definition
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Christmas Island is an Australian external territory located in the Indian Ocean, approximately 2,600 kilometers northwest of the city of Perth. The island covers an area of about 135 square kilometers and has a population of around 2,000 people. It is known for its unique biodiversity, featuring a wide range of endemic species and diverse ecosystems.
The island was named "Christmas Island" by British Captain William Mynors, who arrived there on Christmas Day in 1643. It was later claimed by the British in 1888 and has been administered by Australia since 1958. The local residents are predominantly of Chinese, Malaysian, and European descent, creating a multicultural community.
One of the most prominent features of Christmas Island is its extraordinary annual red crab migration, where millions of red crabs make their journey from the island's rainforest to the coast to breed. This spectacle attracts numerous visitors and researchers from around the world each year.
The island is also home to several species of birds, reptiles, and plant life found nowhere else on Earth. The lush rainforest, surrounded by stunning coral reefs, provides ample opportunities for nature enthusiasts to explore and appreciate the island's natural beauty.
In recent years, Christmas Island has been recognized as an important immigration detention center due to Australia's policy on asylum seekers. This has led to debates and controversy regarding human rights and treatment of refugees.
Overall, Christmas Island is a remarkable island with a distinctive ecosystem, famous for its endemic species and natural wonders.
Etymology of CHRISTMAS ISLAND
The word "Christmas Island" is thought to have derived from the date of its discovery, which was on Christmas Day in 1643. It was named by Captain William Mynors of the British East India Company's ship, the Royal Mary.
