atoll research bulletin no. 392 the flora of - Smithsonian Institution ...

subsistence activities have arguably produced one of the most severely modified natural
and cultural floras on earth.
Although both the vegetation and limited indigenous flora of Nauru has been
severely degraded and outnumbered by exotic species, many of the native species are still
present, unfortunately often in an endangered state. The indigenous flora also still
dominates most habitats, including the later stages of the phosphate-mined pit and
pinnacle topography of Nauru. Even in ruderal habitats and in houseyard gardens and
villages, where they are outnumbered by exotics, indigenous species constitute importan t
components.
It is argued that, while floristic degradation in Nauru appears to be among the
most severe in the Pacific, the current flora still constitutes an important ecological and
cultural resource that must be protected as part of the development process, and NOT as
an afterthought. Even in the case of Nauru, it may not be too late.