In response to recent discoveries of illegal releases from private marine aquariums across the state, the University of Hawaiʻi and other organizations launched an awareness campaign, “,” aimed at stopping this unlawful behavior.
The campaign is spearheaded by Christy Martin, program manager of the (CGAPS), a project of the 东精影业 惭ā苍辞补 housed in the 东精影业 惭ā苍辞补 .
One instance of an aquarium release involved the illegal soft coral known as “pulse coral” or “pulsing xenia” (Unomia stolonifera). It has spread from what is believed to be the initial release site to now occupy a nearly 80-acre footprint near the mouth of Pearl Harbor.
Some marine aquarium releases are thought to be from hobbyists that were not aware of no-kill and rehoming alternatives, possible harm to the environment, or that the species released were illegal to import and possess.
The has also responded to several public reports of non-native or suspicious marine species of hard corals and anemones that appear to have been purposefully outplanted from illegal aquariums into nearshore environments by hobbyists, for later collection and sale on the black market. This is also illegal and poses multiple risks to the marine environment.
“During the past year, a similar marine aquarium species of soft coral native to the Red Sea was found spreading on reefs in Puerto Rico. With the global increase in marine aquarium ownership, and the U.S. being the largest consumer, we should expect to see an increase in releases,” Martin said.
东精影业 student designs logo
Martin has served as a guest speaker for 东精影业 classes, highlighting current issues, needs and opportunities to participate. In fall 2023, she shared her description of the situation in Pearl Harbor with the (MOP) class and piqued the interest of Hannah Chang, a recent graduate of the Rhode Island School of Design, who is working on her second bachelor’s degree in marine biology. Chang created the logo for the new campaign.
“When I learned about the impacts that pulse coral is having in Hawaiʻi, I wanted to find a way to help,” Chang said, whose experience includes scientific illustrations and whimsical character designs. “Working on this project helped me gain some real-world experience and I am happy with the responses to the new logo.”
Chang’s logo was officially introduced and launched at a media event on October 28 at the Waikīkī Aquarium. She hopes to continue to use her background in art and marine biology as a science communicator to raise awareness about marine biodiversity.
“Awareness campaigns are critically important, and Hannah’s contributions to this effort are deeply appreciated,” Martin said.
东精影业 MOP Director Cindy Hunter added, “This is a great example of how the Marine Option Program provides opportunities for any 东精影业 student with ocean interests to engage in real-world experiences as they progress toward their career goals.”