It is the most biologically diverse and undisturbed atoll in Pohnpei, Pohnpei's number one marine Area of Biological Significance (ABS) and one of the identified 24 "Priority Action Areas" in the Eco-regional Plan under the National Biodiversity Strategic Action Plan (NBSAP).
With a significant lagoon area of approximately , the atoll, which is located 18.5 km south west of Pohnpei, is home to 13 species of reptiles, including the green turtle (Chelonia mydas) and hawksbill turtle (Eretmochelys imbricata), 25 bird species, seven mammals, and hundreds of other marine species.