Fishes

Clownfish in its anemone.

Photo: Subphoto@adobe.

 

Discover the Marine Life of the Park's Waters

The National Park encompasses vast marine environments, from the shorelines of four islands to the deep ocean beyond the outer reefs. With such diverse habitats, it is assumed that most of the 991 fish species recorded in Samoan waters—representing 113 families—can be found within or near the park. This remarkable diversity is nearly twice the number of fish species in Hawaii, though about half of those in the broader Indo-Pacific region. See more Marine Invertebrates.

Dominant Fish Families

The park is home to a variety of vibrant fish species, with the most common families being:

• Damselfish (Pomacentridae)
• Surgeonfish (Acanthuridae)
• Wrasse (Labridae)
• Parrotfish (Scaridae)

These species, along with many others, thrive in the park’s clear, warm waters, making it an ideal location for marine exploration.

Explore the Park's Fish Species

Click the link to use the Checklist of the park's fishes. This current list, housed at the Pacific Islands Cooperative Ecosystems Study Unit (PI CESU) at the University of Hawaii, includes many illustrations of the fish species found within the park. The National Park Service is an active member of the PI CESU.

Safety Notice

Please exercise caution around the ava (channels) that drain tidal or surge buildups from the park's lagoons. These areas often experience strong rip currents, posing a significant risk to swimmers. Always stay aware and avoid these potentially hazardous areas.

Come explore the rich marine life of the park’s waters, but always prioritize safety in these dynamic environments.