The marine life around Samoa is likely in danger in the wake of Manawanui sinking. 

The $100 million naval ship struck a reef off the south coast of Upolu on Saturday, before sinking Sunday morning.  

About 950 tonnes of oil is onboard.  

Diesel leaked out of the vessel when it capsized and has coated the surface of the water.  

Waikato University ecology expert Nick Ling told Ryan Bridge much of the material released would have evaporated, leaving behind these heavier components we can see.  

He says marine animals interacting with the surface —like turtles coming to the surface to breathe— will have to interact with it. 

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