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This island nation contains many marine eco-systems, from globally significant coral reefs to mangroves, seagrass areas, seamounts and deep-sea trenches supporting at least 769 fish species, including sharks and rays, as well as whales, dolphins and sea turtles.

Papua New Guinea is a high biodiversity country in both the terrestrial and marine environments. Many new species of many different genera of plants and animals are still being 'uncovered' through ongoing and concentrated efforts by various researchers and institutions, incrementally filling in the gaps of our knowledge. Areas that were blank on the Conservation Needs Assessment map of 1994 have been filled in over the last 20 years, although many areas are yet to be surveyed.

The earth's crust and atmosphere form the biosphere, which is capable of supporting life. Biosphere reserves are there to protect the environment and the organisms living in it in certain areas. This is achieved by safeguarding biodiversity and developing sustainable forms of using land and natural resources, to the mutual benefit of humans and nature.

Tonga is one of the many islands that are endowed with unique resources and derives much of its economic, environmental and social well-being directly or indirectly from its environment. Tonga harbours numerous special ecosystems: from the peak of Mt. Talau in Vava'u, to the serenity of Vai Lahi in Niuafo'ou; the vulnerability of the Ha'apai Group to 'Eua's National Forest and to the Fanga'uta Lagoon in Tongatapu.

Papua New Guinea is a high biodiversity country in both the terrestrial and marine environments. Many new species of many different genera of plants and animals are still being 'uncovered' through ongoing and concentrated efforts by various researchers and institutions, incrementally filling in the gaps of our knowledge. Areas that were blank on the Conservation Needs Assessment map of 1994 have been filled in over the last 20 years, although many areas are yet to be surveyed.