Palmyra Atoll

Palmyra Atoll

Palmyra Atoll (pronunciation: /pælˈmaɪrə/), is an unorganized, incorporated territory of the United States, located in the Pacific Ocean. It is one of the Northern Line Islands and is situated almost halfway between Hawaii and American Samoa.

Etymology

The atoll was named after the American ship Palmyra, which shipwrecked there in 1802. The ship itself was named after the ancient city of Palmyra, located in present-day Syria.

Geography

Palmyra Atoll is one of the most remote places on Earth. It consists of an extensive reef, two shallow lagoons, and some 50 sand and reef-rock islets and bars covered with vegetation—Coconut palm, Scaevola taccada, and Pisonia grandis trees.

Flora and Fauna

The atoll is a haven for a wide variety of wildlife, including many species of fish, seabirds, and marine mammals. It is also home to several endangered species, such as the Hawksbill turtle and the Green sea turtle.

History

Palmyra Atoll's history is marked by its strategic importance during World War II, when it was used as a military outpost by the United States. Today, it is managed as a national wildlife refuge by the United States Fish and Wildlife Service.

Related Terms

• Atoll
• Pacific Ocean
• United States
• Northern Line Islands
• Hawaii
• American Samoa
• Syria
• Coconut palm
• Scaevola taccada
• Pisonia grandis
• Wildlife
• Fish
• Seabirds
• Marine mammals
• Hawksbill turtle
• Green sea turtle
• World War II
• United States Fish and Wildlife Service

External links

• Medical encyclopedia article on Palmyra Atoll
• Wikipedia's article - Palmyra Atoll

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