Visited
Plan to visitThe French Southern and Antarctic Lands (Terres australes et antarctiques françaises or TAAF) is a French overseas territory that consists of several islands and territories in the southern Indian Ocean and southern Atlantic Ocean. It covers an area of about 439,781 square kilometers.
The territory includes five main islands: Amsterdam Island, Saint-Paul Island, Crozet Islands, Kerguelen Islands, and Adélie Land, which is the only non-island territory in Antarctica claimed by France.
The population of the TAAF is small, estimated at around 150 to 200 people, mostly scientists and military personnel. The official language is French.
The economy of the TAAF is primarily based on fishing and research activities. The territory has rich fisheries and is an important breeding site for seabirds and marine mammals. The French government also maintains research stations on the islands for scientific studies on the environment, climate, and biology.
The TAAF is governed by a prefect who is appointed by the French government. The territory is represented in the French parliament by a single deputy and a single senator.
The TAAF is also known for its unique flora and fauna, which includes species such as the king penguin, southern elephant seal, and albatrosses. The islands are also a popular destination for eco-tourism and adventure travel.
Geography
Climate
Ile Amsterdam et Ile Saint-Paul: oceanic with persistent westerly winds and high humidity;
Iles Crozet: windy, cold, wet, and cloudy;
Iles Kerguelen: oceanic, cold, overcast, windy;
Iles Eparses: tropical
Natural resources
fish, crayfish, note, Glorioso Islands and Tromelin Island (Iles Eparses) have guano, phosphates, and coconuts
Economy
Economic overview
very small, fishing-based, domestic economic activity; military base servicing
