BEIJING, Aug. 2 (Xinhuanet) -- Two forest fires that forced the evacuation of 14,000 people from hotels, homes and campgrounds have been brought under control at one of Europe's top tourist retreats, officials in Spain's Canary Islands said Wednesday.

    Tourist hotspots in Tenerife and Gran Canaria escaped the devastating fires, but environmentalists said the impact on the Spanish archipelago's unique wildlife was incalculable.

    Britain’s biggest tour operator, Thomas Cook, said the fires had not affected beaches or holidaymakers. Last year, the region welcomed 9.6 million foreign visitors.

    The isolated archipelago is 80 miles off the Moroccan coast, and is a treasure trove for biologists. Gran Canaria contains 50 percent of the species unique to Spain.

    "Anything that declines these species can be absolutely catastrophic," said Peter Jones, a biologist who advises Spain’s Environment Ministry.

    About a third of Gran Canaria's forests have been reduced to ashes, said Roberto Castro, an engineer with a foundation working to reforest the islands.

    "The main problem isn't the pine trees but the vegetation underneath ... almost none will have been able to survive," he said, adding that 10 to 15 species would probably disappear.

    A disgruntled park ranger has admitted starting the fire on Gran Canaria, angry over the shortness of his contract. He has been arrested.

    The second fire, on Tenerife, was also set deliberately, officials said Wednesday. No arrests have been made.

    (Agencies)