The Samoan Islands formed an
important aspect of the geological work of James Dana, the geologist
of the expedition. He carefully noted the volcanic and coral formations
of these islands. Later on during the voyage, he learned of Darwin's
new theory regarding the formation of atolls, and was pleased that
it completely explained his observations thus far on the route.
When he arrived in Fiji, his observations of the reefs there allowed
him to improve and develop Darwin's theory. Dana became a leading
figure in the field of geology after the voyage for this and other
important contributions.
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Ptilonopus fasciatus (Samoan Islands)
Pair
of Doves
from
John Cassin's
United States Exploring Expedition.
During the Years 1838-1842. Under the Command of Charles Wilkes…
Mammalogy and Ornithology.
Philadelphia: Lippincott, 1858.
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According to the naturalist
and artist of the expedition, Titian Peale, this type of dove was
called Manu-tagi, meaning "crying-bird"
by the Samoan people, because of its "plaintive and
distressful note." John Cassin, the editor of this
work, did not accompany the expedition but compiled the text and
produced the plates from the notes and drawings of the naturalists
Peale, and Charles Pickering.
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