1.   They then might try to control vital sea lanes and threaten the US presence in the Pacific.

2.   In addition to straddling vital sea lanes, the Spratly Islands are believed to be atop vast deposits of oil, natural gas and minerals.

3.   In addition to straddling vital sea lanes, the Spratlys are believed to be atop vast deposits of oil, natural gas and minerals.

4.   Mercado said that since the Spratlys straddle vital sea lanes and trade routes, any dispute would affect world trade.

5.   One colony of majestic Emperor penguins and three of Adelie penguins have had their access to vital sea food supplies almost blocked by the natural ice barrier.

6.   The islands straddle vital sea lanes in the South China Sea and are the surrounding seas are believed to be rich in minerals and fish stocks.

7.   The islands, believed to be rich in minerals and oil, straddle vital sea lanes in the South China Sea.

8.   The Spratlys straddle vital sea lanes in the South China Sea and are believed to be rich in minerals.

9.   The Spratlys straddle vital sea lanes.

10.   The Spratlys, believed to be rich in minerals and oil, straddle vital sea lanes in the South China Sea.