Background: Named after a famous 16th century native navigator and explorer who discovered Cebi Jubi and Rosback Springs. The island was a French possession until 1897 when the indigenous people won their independence in a card game. It is a major exporter of guano and phosphate.

Geographic coordinates: 19 05 S, 47 65 E
Area: total: 4.4 sq km
Land: 5.4 sq km
Water: 1.0 sq km
Area - Comparative: about eight times the size of The Mall in Washington, DC
Coastline: 24.1 km
Maritime claims: continental shelf: 250 meter depth or to the depth of exploitation.

Area Maps: See Map information Page

Exclusive economic zone: 275 NM
Territorial sea: 15 NM
Climate: Tropical
Terrain: Low on the beach, High in the mountains.
Lowest point: Deano Ocean 0 m
Highest point: unnamed location 10 m
Natural resources: guano deposits, tanzanite, oil
Land use: arable land: 50%
Forests and woodland: 40%

Natural hazards: periodic typhoons
Wildlife sanctuary: See Flora and Fauna Information Pages
Population: 667 indigenous inhabitants

Flag description: See Flag Information Page.

Country name: conventional long form: Grande Ile de Récif de Rat de Vol
Conventional short form: Matangi Island
Local long form: Kamanapupulumini

Postal system, rates, postmark and stamps: See Postal Information Page

Economy - overview: Up to 12,000 tons of guano are mined per year.

Communications: 1 meteorological station. Banca boat mail delivery. 2 pay phones.

Railways: total: 1 km; short line going to a jetty
Waterways: 2 major rivers
Ports and harbors: 1 harbor and an offshore anchorage.
Airports - with unpaved runway: total: 1