(2,165 ft) above sea level. Because of the volcanic rock, the soil is relatively
rich in some areas. A coral reef encircling much of the island ensures
protection for ships and a habitat for fish.Dzaoudzi was the capital of Mayotte until 1977.
It is situated on Petite-Terre (or Pamanzi),
which at 10 square kilometres (4 sq mi) is the largest of several
islets adjacent to Maore.