Scuba Diving in

United States Minor Outlying Islands

The United States Minor Outlying Islands are a group of small islands and atolls scattered across the Pacific and Caribbean seas, administered by the United States. These islands are not considered organized incorporated territories, and therefore do not have the same level of self-governance as U.S. territories like Puerto Rico or Guam. They are instead considered “unincorporated territories” meaning that they fall under the jurisdiction of the United States, but do not have the same rights and privileges as incorporated territories.

Marine Species in

United States Minor Outlying Islands

Oriental maori wrasse – Oxycheilinus orientalis

Cheeklined wrasse – Oxycheilinus digramma

Longnose surgeonfish – Zebrasoma rostratum

Brown chub – Kyphosus bigibbus

Brassy chub – Kyphosus vaigiensis

Blue sea chub – Kyphosus cinerascens

Hawaiian chub – Kyphosus hawaiiensis

Masked angelfish – Genicanthus personatus

Knob Coral – Goniastrea stelligera

Goldenstriped soapfish – Grammistes sexlineatus

All Species in United States Minor Outlying Islands

Dive Centres in

United States Minor Outlying Islands

All Dive Centers in United States Minor Outlying Islands

Geography

The U.S. Minor Outlying Islands are geographically diverse, ranging from small, uninhabited sandbars to larger, volcanic islands. They cover a vast area, with the most northerly island being Navassa Island in the Caribbean Sea and the most southerly being Jarvis Island in the South Pacific. They are spread across three major regions: the Pacific Ocean, the Caribbean Sea, and the Atlantic Ocean.

Population

The U.S. Minor Outlying Islands are sparsely populated, with a total population of less than 300. Most of the islands are uninhabited, and the few residents are typically government employees or researchers. With the exception of the U.S. territory of American Samoa, the population of the U.S. Minor Outlying Islands is predominantly of Pacific Island descent.

Culture

The culture of the U.S. Minor Outlying Islands is primarily influenced by the indigenous populations that have lived on the islands for centuries. Traditional customs, beliefs, and practices are deeply ingrained in the culture of these islands. The relatively small and isolated populations have preserved much of their traditional culture, which is evident in their language, music, dance, and food.

Economy

The economies of the U.S. Minor Outlying Islands are limited, with most islands relying on government funding and research activities. The islands have limited natural resources and are not suitable for large-scale agriculture or industry. The U.S. government provides funding for the maintenance and preservation of these islands, which contribute to the conservation of their unique ecosystems and cultural heritage.

History

The history of the U.S. Minor Outlying Islands is intertwined with the history of European colonization and exploration. Many of the islands were claimed by European powers in the 18th and 19th centuries, and later incorporated into the United States through various treaties and annexations. The islands played a strategic role in the United States' expansion in the Pacific and the Caribbean.

Major Landmarks

The U.S. Minor Outlying Islands are known for their natural beauty, with pristine beaches, coral reefs, and diverse marine life. Several of the islands are also important nesting grounds for seabirds and other marine species. Some of the major landmarks include:

  • Wake Island: A strategic atoll in the Pacific Ocean, which is home to a U.S. Air Force base.
  • Baker Island: A small, uninhabited island in the Pacific Ocean, known for its unique ecosystem and nesting seabirds.
  • Kingman Reef: An uninhabited reef in the Pacific Ocean, which is a popular destination for scuba diving and snorkeling.
  • Navassa Island: A small island in the Caribbean Sea, which is the only U.S. territory claimed by the U.S. but not ruled by the U.S..