Clipperton Island

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Clipperton_Rock_(1899)

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Uninhabited atoll in the eastern Pacific Ocean

Clipperton Island (French: Île de Clipperton ) is an uninhabited atoll located in the eastern Pacific Ocean, southwest of Mexico and west of Central America. It is an overseas territory of France and is administered by the French Polynesian government.

Geography

Clipperton Island is a ring-shaped atoll with a central lagoon. The island is approximately 6 square kilometers in area, with a coastline of about 11.1 kilometers. The highest point on the island is Clipperton Rock, which rises to 29 meters above sea level. The island is located at coordinates

   
       10°18 
       N°109
   

.

History

Clipperton Island was discovered by Spanish explorers in the early 16th century. It was named after the English pirate John Clipperton, who was said to have used the island as a hideout in the early 18th century. The island has been claimed by various countries over the years, including France, Mexico, and the United States. In 1931, the International Court of Arbitration awarded sovereignty over Clipperton Island to France.

Ecology

The island's ecosystem is characterized by its coral reefs and the central lagoon. The atoll is home to various species of seabirds, crabs, and other marine life. The island's vegetation is sparse, consisting mainly of grasses and low-lying shrubs.

Administration

Clipperton Island is an overseas territory of France and is administered by the government of French Polynesia. The island is uninhabited and is primarily visited by scientists and military personnel.

See also

• List of islands of France
• French overseas territories
• Pacific Ocean

Related pages

• Atoll
• French Polynesia
• Coral reef
• Seabird
• International Court of Arbitration

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