Its first known eruption was in 1616. Since then Manam has erupted at least 30 times. The volcano has been very active in the 20th century with 23 eruptions.
Strombolian eruptions are most common.
Manam has been erupting since 1974, producing pyroclastic flows and lava flows. Although this most recent eruption has caused damaged there have been no fatalities. Photo by G.A. Taylor, August 1972. Photo courtesy of Jack Lockwood, U.S. Geological Survey. The view is to the southeast and a small eruption plume is visible.