Arnavon Islands
Choiseul
The Arnavon Islands, located in the Solomon Islands' Isabel Province near Choiseul, comprise major islands Sikopo, Kerehikapa, and Maleivona, along with minor islands Tuma and Leko. This island group is renowned for the Arnarvon Marine Conservation Area established in 1995, the first community-managed marine conservation initiative in the Solomon Islands. The conservation area spans 157 square kilometers between Santa Isabel and Choiseul islands in the Manning Straits and serves as a critical nesting ground for the critically endangered hawksbill sea turtles. The marine environment also supports sightings of the Indo-Pacific bottlenose dolphin. Surveys conducted in 2014 highlighted the area's exceptional coral diversity and health, with Kerehikapa boasting the highest live coral cover in the Solomon Islands, dominated by genera such as Acropora and Porites. Sikopo's reefs showed signs of tsunami damage but still support important coral species including Acropora, Montipora, and Cyphastrea. The islands' ecological significance, combined with community-led conservation efforts, make the Arnavon Islands a unique natural feature in the Pacific with high biodiversity and cultural importance.
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Tip: Visitors should plan to visit during the dry season for optimal weather and marine visibility. Booking guided tours in advance is recommended to support local conservation efforts and ensure access to protected areas. Discounts or community support options may be available through local tour operators involved with the conservation area. Respect for wildlife and adherence to conservation guidelines is essential to preserve the fragile ecosystem.
Zajímavosti
- •The Arnarvon Marine Conservation Area was the first community-managed marine conservation area in the Solomon Islands, established in 1995.
- •The islands serve as a nesting ground for the critically endangered hawksbill sea turtles.
- •Kerehikapa island within the conservation area has the highest average live coral cover recorded in the Solomon Islands, with up to 69% live coral cover at some sites.
- •Sikopo island's coral reefs were significantly damaged by a tsunami in April 2007, affecting reef structure and live coral cover.
- •The marine area is home to sightings of the Indo-Pacific bottlenose dolphin (Tursiops aduncus).
Historie
The Arnavon Islands have been recognized for their ecological importance since the establishment of the Arnarvon Marine Conservation Area in 1995, which marked the first community-managed marine protected area in the Solomon Islands.
This initiative reflected local commitment to protecting the critically endangered hawksbill sea turtles and preserving marine biodiversity.
Over the years, the islands have faced natural challenges, including a significant tsunami in 2007 that impacted coral reefs, particularly around Sikopo.
Continuous conservation and monitoring efforts have helped maintain the area's ecological integrity and promote sustainable use of its marine resources.