Geography
The Federated States of Micronesia (FSM) is in Oceania. The country consists of over six hundred islands in the North Pacific Ocean.

Palikir, on Pohnpei Island, is the capital. FSM is divided into the administrative divisions of Chuuk, Kosrae, Pohnpei and Yap.

The islands of the FSM are diverse: some are coral atolls, others are the result of volcanic activity.

The climate is tropical with heavy rainfall.

Environment
The islands of FSM vary geologically. Whilst some islands are low-lying coral atolls, particularly in danger from climate change, others areas are mountainous with rainforests.

Trees found in the FSM are mahogany, mangrove, banana, coconut and papaya. Orchids and hibiscus are among the flowering plants.

Birds include doves, herons, starlings and terns. A variety of reef fish live in the waters and coral reefs off the coast. Other inhabitants in the surrounding seas are dolphins, manta rays, marlin, tuna and turtles.

Architecture
Perhaps the most interesting buildings in the FSM are the remains of the ancient city of Nan Madol, off the coast of Pohnpei.

The site, dating back to the Saudelaur Dynasty (500-1450 AD), consists of over ninety man-made islands. Archaeological remains include residences of nobility and priests, and religious and ceremonial buildings. The structures were built with stone and in some places huge basalt columns were used in construction.

Population
The population of the Federated States of Micronesia was estimated at 106,836 in 2011.

Languages
English is the official language. Other languages spoken in FSM include Chuukese, Kosrean, Pohnpeian and Yapese.

Religion
The majority of the people in FSM are Christian: Roman Catholic and Protestant.

Food
Fish is plentiful; crabs are also a source of protein. Chickens and pigs are kept. Black pepper is a local product and used in cooking.

Staple foods include cassava, taro and sweet potatoes. Breadfruit and plantains are also grown. Rice is imported.

Apples, bananas, coconuts, oranges, papayas, and pineapples are available.

Sakau (kava), made from the roots of piper methysticum, is a traditional drink.

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