Samoa | Pacific Environment

The Samoa consist of 15 small islands scattered over some 1.8 million sq km of the Pacific ocean. The islands are divided into a Norther Group and a Southern Group. The islands of the Northern Group are : Penrhyn, Manihiki, Pukapuka,…

Active Programs

WOW

National Focal Points

+68221256

nes@cookislands.gov.ck

Ministry of Foreign Affairs & Trade

Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment

Overview

Country Background

Geography & Ecosystems

The Samoa consist of 15 scattered islands spread over 2 million km² in the South Pacific. These islands are divided into two main groups: the Southern Group, which is of volcanic origin, and the Northern Group, which is of coral origin. Despite a small land area, the nation boasts a vast exclusive economic zone. The main ecosystems include tropical forests, coral reefs, and coastal lagoons.

Biodiversity

The Samoa ecosystem is characterized by high endemism, particularly among bird and plant species. However, overall biodiversity levels are lower compared to other regions. The coral reefs and marine ecosystems are home to a variety of fish, sea turtles, and invertebrates. The conservation of these endemic species is a top priority.

Invasive Species Threats

Invasive alien species pose a serious threat to the native biodiversity of the Samoa. Rats, cats, and pigs are major predators that have caused a decline in native bird populations. Invasive plant species compete with native flora, altering the structure of ecosystems. The control of these invasive species is essential to protect the fragile ecosystem of the islands.

PRISMSS Partnership

The goal of PRISMSS is to provide technical, financial, and capacity-building support to Pacific island nations to effectively manage invasive alien species. This partnership plays a crucial role in strengthening the Samoa' ability to combat the threats from invasive species.

Quick Facts

Region

Micronesia - Pacific (Oceania)

Capital

Apia

Population

17,500

Total Area

1.8 million km²

PRISMSS Member

Since 2015

Programmes

Protect Our Marine Areas (POMA)

The PRISMSS is a coordinating mechanism designed to facilitate the scaling up of operational management of invasive species in the Pacific. PRISMSS brings together experts to provide support within the Pacific region with a focus on protection of indigenous biodiversity and ecosystem function. The intention is to provide a comprehensive suite of support services in a cohesive, effective, efficient and accessible manner to Pacific Island countries and territories. The goal is to reduce the ecological and socio-economic impact of invasive specie

Post date

2025

Protect our Islands (POI)

After an invasive species arrives in a new place, it needs to survive and reproduce, establish a population, and spread, before impacts are noticed. By the time impacts are obvious, the control or eradication of invasive species can be difficult and expensive or sometimes impossible. The purpose of this programme is to prevent or detect the arrival of invasive species and stop their establishment, spread and impacts.