Philippine expedition (Albatross) facts for kids

The Philippine expedition was a long scientific journey. It lasted for two and a half years. The expedition used a ship called the USS Albatross. Its main goal was to explore the Philippine Islands. This trip was the longest one ever made by the Albatross. It was also the second longest sea research trip ever done by the United States. Only the United States Exploring Expedition was longer.

The expedition happened from 1907 to 1910. It was led by Hugh McCormick Smith. He was a scientist who studied fish, known as an ichthyologist. At the time, he was also a high-ranking official in the U. S. Bureau of Fisheries. During the expedition, scientists collected about 100,000 fish specimens. This means they gathered many different kinds of fish for study. The exact number is not fully known, but it was a huge collection!

What Was the Philippine Expedition?

The Philippine expedition was a big scientific adventure. It was all about exploring the waters around the Philippines. Scientists wanted to learn more about the ocean and the animals living there. They especially focused on fish. The journey helped them discover many new species. It also taught them about the ocean environment.

Who Led This Important Journey?

The leader of the expedition was a man named Hugh McCormick Smith. He was a very smart scientist. His main job was studying fish. This field of study is called ichthyology. Mr. Smith also worked for the U. S. Bureau of Fisheries. This government group helps manage fish and ocean life. His leadership was key to the expedition's success.

How Long Did the Expedition Last?

The journey to the Philippines was quite long. It lasted for two and a half years. This means the scientists and crew were away from home for a very long time. They spent many months at sea, exploring and collecting samples. The expedition started in 1907 and finished in 1910.

What Did Scientists Discover?

The main goal of the expedition was to collect and study marine life. The scientists were very successful. They gathered a huge number of fish specimens. A specimen is a sample of an animal or plant used for scientific study.

How Many Fish Were Collected?

The expedition collected around 100,000 fish specimens. Imagine how many different kinds of fish that is! This massive collection helped scientists learn a lot. They could study the different types of fish. They also learned where these fish lived in the ocean. This information was very important for understanding ocean life.

Why Was This Expedition Important?

The Philippine expedition was very important for science. It greatly increased our knowledge of marine life in the Pacific Ocean. The specimens collected are still studied today. They help scientists understand how ocean environments have changed over time. This expedition was a big step forward for oceanography and marine biology.