Coral reef grazers: Be sure to weigh in on the new proposed rules

Grazers, also referred to as herbivores, help keep coral reef areas healthy and resilient by consuming and removing most types of algae. This regular clearing of algae creates space for corals to grow and also opens up the reef for new larval corals to settle. Be sure to weigh in on the new proposed rules to protect reef grazers in Hawaiʻi.

Reef creature feature: Cauliflower coral (Pocillopora meandrina)

As we approach the beginning of the coral spawning season for many of Hawaii’s coral species, we wanted to feature the once common and critically important habitat architect, Pocillopora meandrina, commonly known as cauliflower coral. Unfortunately, we learned in 2015 that cauliflower coral is highly susceptible to heat stress and bleaching. Spawning events play a key role in the recovery of this species.

New pākuʻikuʻi (Acanthurus achilles) rules for West Hawaiʻi

In December 2022, the State Board of Land and Natural Resources (BLNR) approved a new, temporary rule prohibiting the take of pāku‘iku‘i (Acanthurus achilles) within the West Hawai‘i Regional Fishery Management Area (WHRFMA) on Hawai‘i Island. This is the first time that the Department of Land & Natural Resources Division of Aquatic Resources (DLNR-DAR) has adopted rules under the adaptive management rulemaking authority, which allows for temporary management measures in response to observed population declines.

Is my sunscreen actually reef-safe? Celebrating the new sunscreen rules in Hawaiʻi!

With new sunscreen rules in Maui and Hawaiʻi Counties, how do I choose a reef-safe (mineral-based) sunscreen? The best reef-safe formulas are made with non-nano zinc-oxide or non-nano titanium-dioxide. With the many sunscreen options out there, along with sometimes misleading "reef-safe" labeling, it can be overwhelming to choose a trustworthy sunscreen! Many great reef-safe sunscreen options are made locally here in Hawaiʻi and are available in plastic-free packaging. Be sure to carefully read labels as you select a sunscreen to protect your skin from the sun's rays.

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