Recently went to Rose Atoll to do some field work. Rose Atoll is the tip of an old volcano that barely pokes above the surrounding ocean, and consists of a couple of small islands, a central lagoon and fringing coral reef. It took about 15 hours over rough seas to get there, but the trip was worth it. Rose Atoll is now a US marine national monument currently managed by the USFWS. The area provides an important refuge for nesting seabirds and marine life. Photos...
Rose Atoll and surrounding bathymetry
The mother ship - the M.V. Sili
Leaving Tutuila
Rough seas... even some of the sea hardy fishery and marine
biologists were chucking. I didn't chuck this time thanks to
Dramamine and crackers - thanks Terry.
Land Ho
Getting the alia (local fishing boat) ready for
transport to the island
First crew sets out for the island
Hermit crab gathering
moray
black tip shark
The surrounding reef pavement is encrusted with a pink coralline
algae that gives the reef a pinkish color
lots of clams
Seabirds galore noodies, terns, frigate birds, boobies
working in the forest
Some members of expedition crew...
Smooth ride home