Pohn·pei  (pōn'pā')  An island of the Federated States of Micronesia in the eastern Caroline Islands of the western Pacific Ocean. The site of the capital, Palikir, it also constitutes a state with two dozen smaller atolls. |
Pohnpei
high coral-capped volcanic island, eastern Caroline Islands, Federated States of Micronesia, western Pacific Ocean. Pohnpei is roughly square in shape; it is well watered and hilly (rising to Dolohmwar, 2,595 feet [791 metres]) and is surrounded by a barrier reef with many small islets. Its fertile soil and heavy rainfall result in luxuriant tropical foliage, and the island has been called the "garden of Micronesia." It has mangrove swamps along its coasts and rainforests in the central hilly area. Situated near Pohnpei are the low-lying coral atolls of Oroluk, Pakin, and Ant to the west; Ngatik, Nukuoro, and Kapingamarangi atolls to the southwest; and Mokil and Pingelap atolls to the east. Most of the coral atolls are wooded and support coconut palms. The people of the island and its surrounding atolls, with the exception of the Polynesian inhabitants of Nukuoro and Kapingamarangi, are Micronesians
Learn more about Pohnpei with a free trial on Britannica.com.