As might be expected, the flora and fauna of Ulithi atoll are composed principally of species to be found on all mid-Pacific tropical islands of low profile. Since none of the islands have greater widths than 1600 yards, and most of them are much narrower, sea spray carried inland doubtlessly is a limiting factor to the growth of plants intolerant of saline, or salty conditions; indirectly, this effects animal life. An example of this is the successful growth of a Bermuda grass "lawn" tolerant of sea spray, planted near the Asor island officer's wardroom, but the failure of a small plot of bluegrass and white clover planted on Sorlen.
A weed has often been defined as an undesirable plant. Most herbs or forbs are welcome relief from the ever present coral rock and sand. Consequently, few weeds grow or Ulithi.
The following well known "weeds" are found on all the larger islands: crab grass (or finger grass), goose grass, love grass, panic grass, foxtail grass, wild millet, sedges, Rushes (Juncus), chickweed, morning glory or bindweeds, creeping spurge, black nightshade, ground cherry, mint, purslane, several vine species of the bean family, and a few members of the sunflower family.
In fresh or slightly brackish rainwater pools may be found green algae, while brown algae is often seen by shell gatherers just inside the surf line on the seaward side of the islands. Fungi seen frequently are of two kinds: the toadstool types, which grow on the ground or on decaying logs, and bracket types, which are of a yellowish-brown color, often seen on tree trunks in shaded areas. Lichens also thrive on the trunks of trees here.
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