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Black durgeon swim over coral-covered
Molokini Crater's shallow waters.
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About Hawai'i's Coral Reefs
Coral reefs exist in only two percent of the world's oceans. The diversity of
life in a coral reef is second only to that of the tropical
rainforest.
Coral animals are ant-sized relatives of jellyfish that produce
protective limestone habitat for multiple species of fish and other
organisms.
The world's coral reefs are being greatly impacted by environmental
degradation and human misuse. Coral bleaching, overfishing, abusive
fishing techniques, anchor damage, algae blooms, global warming and
fish feeding are some of the problems affecting the natural balance
of our reef systems today.
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How HWF works to help Coral Reefs
Hawai'i Wildlife Fund participates in the Coral Reef Initiative, an
international effort dedicated to gaining a baseline
 understanding of
the health of Hawaii's coral reefs, and conducts reef surveys and
educational programs.
Hawai'i Wildlife Fund naturalists are certified in underwater survey
techniques by a program at the University of Hawaii. We conduct coral
reef assessment projects to better understand reef health, sea turtle
habitat and the impact of potential development to our reefs.
Hawai'i Wildlife Fund increases public awareness about our unique
reef ecosystems by sponsoring conferences, distributing coral reef
cards and teaching visitors firsthand about proper reef etiquette. We
advocate a no-touch policy, no fish feeding, and respect for sea
turtles and other marine life; "take only pictures, leave only
bubbles."
MORE > HWF'S REEF USE GUIDELINES
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