Palmyra Atoll

Palmyra Atoll is an unorganized, unincorporated territory of the United States located in the central Pacific Ocean. It is part of the Line Islands and is situated about halfway between Hawaii and American Samoa. The atoll is known for its rich biodiversity and is a designated National Wildlife Refuge.

Geography

Palmyra Atoll consists of an extensive coral reef, submerged sand flats, and around 50 islets. The total land area is approximately 4.6 square miles (12 square kilometers). The atoll's highest point is only about 6 feet (2 meters) above sea level, making it vulnerable to sea level rise.

History

Palmyra Atoll was first sighted in 1798 by American sea captain Edmund Fanning. It was later claimed by the Kingdom of Hawaii in 1862 and subsequently annexed by the United States in 1898 as part of the Newlands Resolution. During World War II, the atoll was used as a naval air station by the United States.

Ecology

The atoll is home to a diverse range of flora and fauna. It supports a variety of seabirds, marine life, and terrestrial species. The surrounding waters are rich in coral reefs and are a habitat for numerous fish species, sharks, and sea turtles. The atoll is also an important breeding ground for several bird species, including the red-footed booby and the black noddy.

Conservation

Palmyra Atoll is managed as a National Wildlife Refuge by the United States Fish and Wildlife Service. It is also part of the larger Pacific Remote Islands Marine National Monument, which was established to protect the unique marine ecosystems of the central Pacific. Conservation efforts focus on preserving the atoll's natural habitats and preventing the introduction of invasive species.

Research

The atoll serves as a site for scientific research, particularly in the fields of marine biology, ecology, and climate change. Researchers from various institutions conduct studies on the atoll's ecosystems, contributing valuable data to the understanding of tropical marine environments.

Access

Access to Palmyra Atoll is restricted and requires a special permit from the United States Fish and Wildlife Service. The atoll is not open to the general public, and visits are typically limited to researchers and conservationists.

See also

• List of atolls
• Pacific Remote Islands Marine National Monument
• National Wildlife Refuge
• Line Islands