Coral Reefs

Each of the islands of American Samoa supports a coral reef ecosystem along its coastline.  Two islands, Rose Atoll and Swains Island, are coral atolls with well developed reef systems.  The remaining five islands are old volcanoes surrounded by narrow fringing reefs.  Offshore from Tutuila, Aunu'u, Ofu, Olosega, and Ta'u are drowned barrier reefs.

Who's Who among Samoan Fish - plus photos!

Coral reefs support a wide variety of marine life representative of the tropical Indo-Pacific waters.  To date, nearly 900 species of fish and over 200 species of coral have been documented.  The fringing reef on the south side of Ofu island within the park is one of the most beautiful and accessible.  It is an excellent place for snorkeling.

Learn all about Samoa's coral reefs, fish, and marine mammals.

REMEMBER that coral is made up of living organisms and can be easily damaged.  It is unlawful to collect coral - or any other marine life.