Hawaii and Polynesia In the middle of the North Pacific, the most northern of the Polynesian archipelagos, Hawaii consists of very isolated coral and volcanic islands. Vegetation has developed here that is practically unique in the world, and 96% of its flowering species are endemic.
But many of these have disappeared as a result of competition from the mass introduction of exotic plants.
This is also the case in Tahiti with the dramatic expansion of Miconia calvescens, an invasive ornamental tree imported from America.
Moreover, the coastal areas of the Pacific archipelagos are highly vulnerable and their ecosystems are being weakened by the overpopulation associated with intensive exploitation.
