A team of faculty and student researchers from Brigham Young University–Hawaii recently embarked on a marine biology expedition to Kiritimati, or Christmas Island, Kiribati, from July 2 to July 9. Led by Dr. Esprit Saucier, associate professor in the Faculty of Sciences specializing in marine biology, the group included three dedicated students: Chase Allsup, Timeon Murdoch, and Caitlin Alder-Escabarte, accompanied by other members from the Faculty of Sciences, including Dr. Benjamin Jordan and Dr. Celine Duffau.
The purpose of their trip was to study the unique ecosystems and marine life of this remote Pacific atoll, which is renowned for its rich biodiversity and pristine environments. This trip enabled them to get a rare glimpse into the natural beauty and ecological significance of the region.
Dr. Saucier’s three objectives for the trip were: one, doing transect swimming, which Dr. Saucier describes as a “non-biased view of the reef,” two, surveying the underwater invertebrates, and three, establish connections with the Kiribati government. All objectives were successfully met by the end of the trip.
The team researched various topics while exploring the island, including indigenous bird species, fossilized corals, and significant differences in salinity levels between the ocean and the island’s inland ponds.
To start, the researchers turned their attention to the coral reefs surrounding Christmas Island. They donned snorkeling gear to survey the health of the coral and the diversity of marine life. By cataloging fish species and examining the condition of the corals, the team aimed to assess the impact of environmental changes and human activities on these vital underwater habitats.
Caitlin Alder-Escabarte, a senior majoring in biology, reflected on the aura Christmas Island exudes, saying, “Every natural environment has its own needs that are best addressed in a variety of ways by a variety of people.” Highlighting the importance of the trip, she adds, “Becoming familiar with that environment is a necessary first step to meeting those needs.”
Chase Allsup, a sophomore majoring in biology, previously served a mission in Kiribati and found the experience both familiar and fresh having served in the country but never actually visiting Christmas Island itself. “It was cool for me to visit Christmas Island, knowing now that it’s an outer island of sorts,” Allsup said. The trip also served as a refresher, allowing Allsup to re-learn his knowledge of the Kiribati language, saying, “When I first got there, I was a little more shy and couldn’t speak the language well, but by the end of the week I was joking around with the natives and having fun.”
Timeon Murdoch, a sophomore and native of Christmas Island majoring in hospitality and tourism management, reflected on the broader applications of their trip, especially to his future career. “Learning from the marine biology researchers changed how I want to approach tourism on my island. I realized the importance of integrating conservation efforts into our tourism strategies, especially for my home island.” Murdoch said.
Reflecting on the trip, Allsup noted the spiritual impact of their journey, saying, “We attended church on Sunday, and it was a reminder that the spirit of the church is the same no matter where you go. The Savior’s love is with you everywhere.”
Alder-Escabarte magnifies the relationship between the natural world and the spiritual world, saying, “Being surrounded by nature brings me closer to Christ. As I observe His creations, I feel that I learn more about His hand and how He works.”
Murdoch emphasized the importance of service, aligning with the university’s mission. “‘Enter to learn, go forth to serve.’ We were learning and serving at the same time, finding ways to apply our knowledge to help my people, the people of Kiritimati.” he said.
The expedition to Christmas Island was not just a scientific venture but a journey of faith and service. The team immersed themselves in the study of the island's unique marine ecosystems and vibrant biodiversity. Entwining scientific endeavors and spiritual beliefs, the trip testifies to a sentiment found in The Book of Mormon, where the prophet Alma proclaims that “all things denote there is a God” (Alma 30:44). Through their observations and interactions with nature, they felt a deeper connection to their Heavenly Father and a renewed commitment to stewarding His creations, reinforcing BYU–Hawaii's errand to integrate faith, learning, and service.