Rawaki (Phoenix Island) (27456)
Kiribati, Oceania
Site overview
KBA status: confirmed
Global KBA criteria: A1a, A1c, D1a
Year of last assessment: 2012
National site name: Rawaki (Phoenix Island)
Central coordinates: Latitude: -3.7208, Longitude: -170.7117
System: marine, terrestrial
Elevation (m): 0 to 10
Area of KBA (km2): 0.74298
Protected area coverage (%): 100.00
KBA classification: Global
Legacy site: Yes
Site details
Site description: Rawaki is a low coral island surrounded by a raised beah crest with the interior of the island forming a saucer-like depression. Within the central depression there is a hyper-saline lake of around 20ha and a number of small fresh water pools.
Rationale for qualifying as KBA: This site qualifies as a Key Biodiversity Area of international significance that meets the thresholds for at least one criterion described in the Global Standard for the Identification of KBAs.
Additional biodiversity: An important seabird colony
Delineation rationale: 2012-12-17 (BL Secretariat): original polygon clipped to hi-res coastline following identification in October 2012 of new marine IBA offshore this site; site area consequently changed from 58 ha (non-GIS) to 74 ha (GIS).
Habitats
Summary of habitats in KBA: The island is a low coral island vegetated with grasses and low shrubs.
Threats
Summary of threats to biodiversity at KBA: The island has been colonised by rabbits, resulting in degredation of vegetation. An attempt at eradication has been proposed for 2008.
| Threat level 1 | Threat level 2 | Threat level 3 | Timing |
|---|---|---|---|
| Invasive & other problematic species, genes & diseases | Invasive non-native/alien species/diseases | Named species | Ongoing |
Additional information
References: Pierce et al (2006)