HONOLULU (KHON2) — Reef restoration in Waimanalo is getting a little boost with the release of juvenile yellow tang.
It’s part of a new initiative that aims to use aquaculture fish to support ecosystem health. On Saturday, Nov. 2, officials met at Kaiona Beach Park in Waimanalo to release hundreds of yellow tang.
According to researchers, the addition of yellow tangs will help maintain the health of the reefs by grazing on algae, which can overwhelm the coral.
The release of these iconic coral reef fish into our nearshore waters represents a historic moment for OI, HPU and the State of Hawaiʻi. While this initial effort likely will be more symbolic than impactful, it represents a tremendous opportunity to add another important tool in our collective toolbox to protect our coral reefs for future generations.
Shaun Moss, Ph.D., Hawaii Pacific University Oceanic Institute Executive Director
Prior to the fish being released into the ocean, they were screened by a Department of Land and Natural Resources biologist to ensure they were free of pathogens.
“It has been so rewarding to see these efforts come full circle. Although this release is relatively small, baby steps like these can lead to lasting positive impacts for our local marine ecosystem,” Spencer Davis, HPU Senior Research Associate in OI’s Finfish Department added.
After the release, Waimanalo Limu Hui hosted its monthly limu planting event to celebrate the Hui’s 7th anniversary.
Volunteers “outplanted limu into the ocean by making limu lei and tying them to rocks to submerge in the ocean.”
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More information and other volunteer opportunities can be found on Waimanalo Limu Hui’s website.