Plate Movement and Island Integration--A Possible Mechanism in the Formation of Endemic Biotas, with Special Reference to the Hawaiian Islands

Abstract

Island integration is proposed as a possible mechanism in the formation of endemic biotas. Reconstructions of the Hawaiian-Emperor chain for –20, –40, –60 and –70 my are used to demonstrate the biogeographical importance of horizontal island movements, particularly the possible effects of the integration of islands/seamounts (formed SE of the Island of Hawaii) into the Hawaiian-Emperor chain. Necker Island and Wentworth Seamount, which appear to have originated south of the equator, probably close to the East Pacific Rise, are given as examples. The event of island integration could have resulted in the mixing of two different biotas: Hawaiian and non-Hawaiian. As a possible alternative to Founder Principle, island integration is offered as a mechanism in the formation of Hawaiian Island endemism.