Description

The “Grand-Trou” pond or the pond of the big hole, is located at an altitude of 37 meters, not
far from the “Dans fond” district in Terre de bas aux Saintes. Before 1922, it was mainly fed
by rainwater, which made it the only drinking water supply point for Petites-Anses. This had
to be consumed in the first 48 hours for health reasons. In addition, said water was also used to
rinse clothes previously washed with seawater.

Later, the inhabitants dug the pond so that the Man’Charles and the town’s ravines flowed into
it. It was in 1973, with the supply of drinking water, when the use of the pond completely
changed. Today it has been artificialized and is maintained in order to preserve and promote
the development of biodiversity. Several interesting plant and animal species can be found
here.

Biodiversity

Among the plant species, you can find golden leather fern (Acrostichum aureum), a species
that appreciates areas saturated with slightly brackish or freshwater. The common water
hyacinth (Eichhornia crassipes), an invasive aquatic plant that threatens to cover the water
surface, therefore preventing photosynthesis, which is essential to maintain aquatic balance.
The dotleaf waterlily (Nymphrea ampla (Salish.)) is a species of water lily native to India that
only blooms for one day, its flower is recognizable by its white and yellow colors. It is also
possible to see a rare fruit tree in Guadalupe, the pond apple (Annona glabra); it is a small tree
with an orange pulp that is highly appreciated by crabs. This plant is found in the humid and
swampy forested areas of the Lesser and Greater Antilles.

Among the animal species are: the red-eared slider (Trachemys scripta elegans), which over
time have taken the place of native tortoises. Sold in pet stores, its importation has been
prohibited since 1997 as it is considered an invasive species. Surprisingly, they were released
in pools and ponds. There are also endemic Lesser Antillean iguanes (Iguana delicatissima)*,
crabs, “mulets lapias”, waterhen (Gallinula chloropus), green herons (a protected species,
Butorides virescens), and guppies (Poecilia reticulata).

Ecotourism potential

It is a quiet and appreciated rest area as it allows you to observe an unusual biodiversity;
strolling along this pond is a contrast to the turquoise blue landscapes of the Baie des Saintes.
Its picnic area in the shade of the tamarinds is perfect for having a ventilated and pleasant lunch.