Bismarck Solomon Seas

The Bismarck Solomon Seas ecoregion is a region in the Western Indo-Pacific known for its rich coral biodiversity. The area is characterized by various ecosystems including forests, mangroves, estuaries, coral reefs, and islands, which support a diverse range of marine life and endemic species. Notable features of the region include the highest recorded number of coral species in the Coral Triangle, and important breeding and feeding grounds for sharks, dugongs, and various turtle species. The local communities in this ecoregion heavily rely on marine resources for their livelihoods, with over 200 cultures intricately connected to the ocean and island shores. Customary tenure systems in Papua New Guinea and the Solomon Islands allow resource owners to control and sustainably utilize their resources, which is crucial for preserving the unique cultural heritage and ecological features of the region for future generations.