Kingman Reef

Reef2322 - Flickr - NOAA Photo Library

Habitats at Kingman Reef - Peerj-81-fig-2E

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Habitats at Kingman Reef - Peerj-81-fig-2F

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Wreck 2

Kingman Reef - 2014-02-18 - Landsat 8 - 15m

Kingman Reef is a largely submerged, uninhabited triangular shaped reef located in the North Pacific Ocean, roughly halfway between Hawaii and American Samoa. Its isolation and minimal human impact have allowed for a high density of marine life, making it a notable area for biodiversity within the United States' Pacific Remote Islands Marine National Monument. Despite its small land area, Kingman Reef plays a significant role in the ecology and geography of the Pacific.

Geography

Kingman Reef is one of the most isolated parts of the United States. It is situated about 930 miles south of Honolulu, Hawaii, and is considered part of the Line Islands. The reef encloses a lagoon that is about 4.5 miles (7.2 km) across, with a depth of about 82 feet (25 m). The land area is made up of dried coral and is only about 3 feet (1 m) above sea level at its highest point, making it susceptible to being submerged during high tide. The total area, including the lagoon and surrounding waters, spans approximately 29 square miles (75 km²).

History

Kingman Reef was first discovered by the American Captain W. E. Kingman in 1853. It was later claimed by the United States in 1922 under the Guano Islands Act because of its guano deposits, although these were never exploited. During World War II, the reef served as a refueling stop for military planes. Since then, it has been largely untouched by human activity, aside from scientific research and occasional visits by passing ships.

Ecology

The ecological importance of Kingman Reef cannot be overstated. It is home to a wide variety of marine species, including corals, fish, seabirds, and marine mammals. The reef's pristine condition provides a critical habitat for many species that are threatened or endangered. The surrounding waters are known for their clarity, offering visibility up to 150 feet (46 m), which is among the highest in the world for oceanic waters.

Kingman Reef's coral ecosystems are some of the most intact and healthy in the Pacific Ocean. This has made it a focal point for scientific study, particularly in the areas of coral reef ecology and the impacts of climate change on marine environments. The reef is part of the Pacific Remote Islands Marine National Monument, which was expanded in 2009 to provide additional protection to the unique ecosystems found in these remote areas.

Conservation

The designation of Kingman Reef as part of the Pacific Remote Islands Marine National Monument has helped to protect its fragile ecosystems from the potential impacts of fishing, pollution, and other human activities. The monument is managed by the United States Fish and Wildlife Service in cooperation with the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) and the Department of the Interior. These agencies work together to monitor the reef's health, conduct scientific research, and enforce conservation measures.

Challenges

Despite its protected status, Kingman Reef faces several environmental threats. Climate change poses the most significant risk, with rising sea levels and increasing ocean temperatures potentially disrupting its delicate ecological balance. Coral bleaching, a stress response caused by warmer water temperatures, has been observed at the reef and threatens its coral populations. Additionally, marine debris, particularly plastic waste, can be carried by ocean currents to the reef, posing a threat to wildlife.

Conclusion

Kingman Reef is a unique and valuable natural resource that represents one of the last untouched marine environments in the world. Its protection and study are crucial for understanding the impacts of human activity and climate change on marine ecosystems. As a part of the Pacific Remote Islands Marine National Monument, Kingman Reef continues to be a symbol of conservation efforts in the Pacific and a critical area for scientific research.

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