Remote Pacific atolls provide ecological reference for global conservation

Researchers from the University of Hawaii conducted an extensive ecological study of the Bikar and Bokak atolls in the Marshall Islands, a nation in the Pacific Ocean.

The team examined terrestrial, marine, and aerial ecosystems to document biodiversity in these remote locations. This research provides the first comprehensive ecological reference for the newly established marine reserves. The study identified the atolls as some of the most intact ecosystems remaining in the region.

The team monitored bird populations, vegetation, sea turtle nesting, coral reefs, and fish communities. Because these atolls are located 116 to 385 kilometers from the nearest inhabited atoll, they have remained largely undisturbed by human activity. The community at Utirik atoll has traditionally protected these fragile ecosystems for decades. The researchers found 15 colonies of seabirds and hundreds of different fish groups, including reef fish, deep-water fish, and open-water predators like sharks.

The team discovered 14 fish groups not previously recorded in the Marshall Islands and identified two species that may be new to science. While Bikar showed higher numbers of green sea turtle nesting sites, Bokak contained a larger total biomass of reef fish. The government of the Marshall Islands declared a national marine sanctuary covering 48,000 square kilometers around the atolls two years after the initial evaluation.

Alan Fiedlander, who led the study, stated that these sites serve as vital reference systems to help scientists understand what has been lost in other parts of the world and to guide conservation efforts.