Research & Publications

Scientific research and publications advancing our understanding of Samoa's unique biodiversity

Featured Publications

Featured Research

Endemic Bird Conservation in Samoa: Population Dynamics of Aplonis atrifusca

Dr. Maria Tafua, Prof. John Smith, Dr. Sione Vuki

Pacific Conservation Biology (2024)

Comprehensive study on the population trends and habitat requirements of the Samoan Starling, including recommendations for conservation management.

BirdsConservationPopulation Ecology
DOI
Featured Research

Climate Change Impacts on Samoa's Flying Fox Populations

Dr. Leilani Moana, Dr. Robert Johnson

Journal of Tropical Ecology (2023)

Analysis of how changing weather patterns and cyclone frequency affect Pteropus samoensis roosting behavior and reproduction.

MammalsClimate ChangeBehavior
DOI

Recent Publications

Endemic Bird Conservation in Samoa: Population Dynamics of Aplonis atrifusca

Dr. Maria Tafua, Prof. John Smith, Dr. Sione Vuki

Pacific Conservation Biology (2024)

Comprehensive study on the population trends and habitat requirements of the Samoan Starling, including recommendations for conservation management.

BirdsConservationPopulation Ecology
View Online

Climate Change Impacts on Samoa's Flying Fox Populations

Dr. Leilani Moana, Dr. Robert Johnson

Journal of Tropical Ecology (2023)

Analysis of how changing weather patterns and cyclone frequency affect Pteropus samoensis roosting behavior and reproduction.

MammalsClimate ChangeBehavior
View Online

Marine Turtle Nesting Patterns in Samoa: A 10-Year Study

Dr. Tavita Fale, Dr. Emma Wilson, Prof. Michael Lee

Marine Biology Research (2023)

Long-term monitoring data reveals trends in sea turtle nesting success and emerging threats to marine ecosystems.

MarineLong-term StudyReproduction

Indigenous Knowledge and Modern Conservation: Plant Uses in Samoa

Tala Aumua, Dr. Sarah Brown, Elder Faleolo Tanu

Ethnobotany Research & Applications (2022)

Documentation of traditional plant knowledge and its integration with contemporary conservation strategies.

PlantsTraditional KnowledgeEthnobotany

Current Research Projects

Samoa Biodiversity Genomics Initiative

Active
Dr. Sina Malae, National University of Samoa
2024 -2026

Comprehensive genetic analysis of endemic species to understand evolutionary relationships and guide conservation priorities.

Funding: Pacific Science Foundation
Focus Species: All Endemic Species

Coral Reef Restoration and Monitoring

Active
Dr. Teine Sasa, University of the South Pacific
2023 -2025

Active restoration of degraded coral reefs and development of community-based monitoring protocols.

Funding: Global Environment Facility
Focus Species: Coral Species, Marine Fish

Forest Carbon Storage Assessment

Completed
Prof. Alataua Moli, Scientific Research Organisation of Samoa
2023 -2024

Quantification of carbon storage in native forests and assessment of ecosystem services.

Funding: Ministry of Natural Resources
Focus Species: Forest Trees, Native Plants

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