Environmental Factors

Dried Tamaligi trees after stripping of their lower barks.

NPS

 

Preserving the Native Ecosystems

The park faces three main challenges in preserving its native ecosystems:

Invasive Plants and Animals

Non-native plants and animals pose a significant threat to the native rainforests on all the islands. Species like Koster's curse (Clidemia hirta) and mile-a-minute vine rapidly spread when the forest canopy is disturbed by human activity or frequent hurricanes (cyclones in Samoa). Miconia, a tree that has devastated native forests in Tahiti, is a potential danger as well. Although the park has a small staff, they are working to develop resource management techniques to slow the spread of these invasive species. Additionally, a park and village partnership has been successful in controlling Tamaligi palagi (Falcataria moluccana), an invasive tree that crowds out native forest.

Higher Ocean Temperatures

Rising ocean temperatures, likely caused by global climate change, threaten the park's coral reefs. The park is conducting baseline studies to monitor these changes, as the coral reefs in this area serve as early indicators of broader environmental changes in the South Pacific.

Increase in Human Population

The Tutuila island unit of the park is facing pressure from the growing human population in nearby areas. Increased subsistence harvesting from the land is becoming unsustainable, putting further stress on the park's natural resources.

Preserving these ecosystems requires ongoing efforts, from controlling invasive species to monitoring environmental changes and addressing human impacts.