Kure Atoll, Coral atoll in Northwestern Hawaiian Islands, US
Kure Atoll is a coral atoll in the Northwestern Hawaiian Islands of the United States, reaching roughly six miles across at its widest point. Its central lagoon is enclosed by a ring of coral sand and reef, with Green Island forming the only permanent dry land.
Several shipwrecks occurred here during the 19th century, leaving crews stranded for extended periods before rescue arrived. The area later became part of a protected marine reserve to safeguard its fragile coral formations.
Green Island serves as the only dry land within the ring of coral, hosting small buildings that researchers and volunteers use during their seasonal stays. The island's vegetation consists mainly of low shrubs and grasses adapted to the salt spray and constant wind.
Access is restricted to approved research activities and seasonal conservation programs, with no general public visits allowed. Those interested in participating should inquire well in advance with the relevant authorities about volunteer opportunities.
The coral reefs surrounding the atoll cover roughly 80,000 acres (32,000 hectares) and support twenty-eight species of stony coral. Researchers regularly observe rare marine organisms here that occur only in these remote waters.
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