Science & Research

Exploring Biodiversity: Research in Terrestrial and Marine Ecosystems

The National Park of American Samoa serves as a living laboratory, offering unique opportunities for scientific exploration and research. From the lush rainforests to the vibrant coral reefs, the park is home to diverse ecosystems that support a wide range of flora and fauna. The park’s protected status provides a pristine environment for researchers to study these ecosystems, monitor environmental changes, and contribute to global conservation efforts.

Research Areas

1. Terrestrial Ecology
   The park's tropical rainforests are home to unique plant and animal species, many of which are endemic to American Samoa. Scientists study these ecosystems to better understand biodiversity, species interactions, and the impacts of climate change.

2. Marine Biology
   The park includes a vast marine environment, featuring coral reefs that are among the most diverse and least disturbed in the world. Ongoing research focuses on coral reef health, marine species conservation, and the effects of ocean temperature changes.

3. Cultural and Archaeological Studies
   The park preserves significant cultural sites that offer insights into the traditional Samoan way of life. Researchers study these sites to document cultural practices, protect historical artifacts, and deepen our understanding of Samoan heritage.

4. Conservation and Climate Change
   As the impacts of climate change become more pronounced, researchers in the park monitor how rising sea levels, shifting weather patterns, and other environmental changes are affecting both the natural and cultural resources of the park.

Opportunities for Researchers

The National Park of American Samoa welcomes researchers from around the world to conduct studies in a variety of disciplines. The park offers a wealth of natural and cultural resources, making it an ideal location for scientific research that can inform conservation efforts both locally and globally.

Researchers interested in conducting studies within the park must obtain the appropriate permits and follow all park regulations to ensure that their work supports the park’s mission of protecting its resources for future generations.

For more information about science and research in the National Park of American Samoa, or to inquire about research opportunities, please contact the park at [phone].

Ongoing Research and Partnerships

The park collaborates with universities, research institutions, and conservation organizations to support a wide range of studies. From long-term environmental monitoring projects to short-term field studies, these collaborations help advance scientific knowledge while contributing to the protection of the park's unique ecosystems.

Through science and research, the National Park of American Samoa continues to be a leader in conservation and environmental stewardship.