Endangered and Protected Species in Hawaiian Waters
Hawaiian waters are home to a diverse array of marine life, some of which are federally protected under the Endangered Species Act and the Marine Mammal Protection Act. It is illegal to approach, touch, or harass these creatures, and violations can result in significant fines. As members and guests of WSC, it is our responsibility to respect and adhere to all local, state, and federal laws when encountering ocean wildlife. While we are fortunate to occasionally cross paths with these curious creatures, it is important to remember that we are visitors in their ocean.
These majestic marine animals serve as a reminder of the beauty and fragility of the ocean ecosystem, and their protection is vital for the health of our planet’s oceans.
Hawaiian Monk Seals & Cetaceans: Protected Species
Hawaiian Monk Seals & Cetaceans (dolphins and whales) are under the protection of federal law. Harassing, touching, or disturbing these animals is not only harmful to their well-being, but also illegal.
Hawaiian Spinner Dolphins (Nai’a)
Hawaiian spinner dolphins (Stenella longirostris) are protected by both federal and state laws. These nocturnal feeders rely on nearshore areas during the day to rest, and it is critical that they are not disturbed. Harassment—such as following or approaching them—impacts their ability to rest, which can affect their health and survival.
- Federal Law prohibits swimming with, approaching, or remaining within 50 yards of spinner dolphins.
- NOAA Spinner Dolphin Rules: Please respect their need for rest, and avoid any interaction with them.
Note: Photo shown here was taken with a zoom lens, ensuring no disturbance to the dolphins.
Sea Turtles: Honu
Hawaiian waters are home to two species of sea turtles that are protected:
- Hawaiian Green Sea Turtle (Honu) (Chelonia mydas): A beloved symbol of the Hawaiian Islands, known for their vibrant green shells. These turtles are commonly found grazing on seagrasses and algae in the warm, coastal waters around the islands.
- Hawksbill Turtle (Eretmochelys imbricata): A critically endangered species, characterized by unique overlapping scales on its shell and a beak-like mouth. These turtles are primarily found in coral reefs and are essential to maintaining healthy reef ecosystems.
While the Hawaiian Green Sea Turtle and Hawksbill Turtle are the most common, other species such as the Loggerhead (Caretta caretta), Leatherback (Dermochelys coriacea), and Olive Ridley (Lepidochelys olivacea) turtles may occasionally be spotted in Hawaiian waters.
These turtles are all vital to the health of the ocean, and protecting them is crucial to preserving marine biodiversity.
Sharks: Manō
Sharks are keystone species in marine ecosystems, playing a crucial role in maintaining balance. In Hawaiian waters, you may encounter several species of sharks, including:
- Whitetip Reef Shark (Triaenodon obesus): Common in shallow coral reef areas.
- Galapagos Shark (Carcharhinus galapagensis): Found in deeper waters, known for its slender body.
- Tiger Shark (Galeocerdo cuvier): Recognizable by dark vertical stripes and formidable size.
- Hammerhead Shark (Sphyrna spp.): Known for their unique hammer-shaped heads.
- Gray Reef Shark (Carcharhinus amblyrhynchos): Often found near coral reefs, with a sleek gray appearance.
While sharks are often misunderstood, they generally pose little threat to humans. However, it’s advisable to follow safety guidelines when swimming in their habitat.
Shark Safety:
- Swim in groups and avoid murky waters or areas near river outflows.
- Be cautious after heavy rainfall when sharks may be more active.
- Pay attention to lifeguard warnings, especially during Sharktober (October), when tiger sharks migrate to the islands to breed.
Fish Species
When swimming in Hawaiian waters, you will likely encounter an incredible variety of fish species, including:
- Lau’ipala (Zebrasoma flavescens) and Manini (Acanthurus triostegus) (Yellow and Convict Tang)
- Kihikhi (Zanclus cornutus) (Moorish Idol)
- Humuhumunukunukuapua’a (Rhinecanthus rectangulus) (Hawaiian Triggerfish)
- Āhole (Acanthurus nigrofuscus) (Flagtails)
- Uhu (Scarus spp.) (Parrotfish)
- ‘Ulua (Caranx spp.) (Jacks, Carangidae)
- Nūnū (Aulostomus chinensis) (Trumpetfish)
- Other common species include:
- Squirrelfishes (Holocentridae), Soldierfishes (Myripristis spp.)
- Butterflyfish (Chaetodontidae), Goatfish (Mulloidichthys spp.), Lizardfish (Synodus spp.)
- Wrasse (Labridae), Damselfish (Pomacentridae), and Unicornfish (Naso spp.)
- Flatfishes, including flounders (Bothidae)
Each of these species contributes to the rich biodiversity of Hawaiian waters and offers swimmers a vibrant underwater experience.
Coral Reefs: A Vital Ecosystem
Hawai’i’s coral reefs are mainly composed of hard corals (Scleractinia) and are home to a dazzling array of colors. These reefs are essential to the marine ecosystem, providing shelter and food for countless marine species. However, they face significant threats, including coral bleaching caused by rising water temperatures and pollution.
Coral Bleaching: When corals become stressed, they expel the algae living within their tissues, causing them to lose their vibrant colors. While corals can recover from bleaching if conditions improve, it is crucial to minimize stressors to protect them.
How to Help Protect Coral Reefs:
- Avoid touching or stepping on corals, as even seemingly lifeless corals are still living organisms and can be harmed.
- Use reef-safe sunscreen: Opt for sunscreens that contain non-nano zinc oxide. Avoid products with oxybenzone or other harmful chemicals.
- Be mindful of your impact on the reef ecosystem and do your part to preserve it for future generations.
For more information on coral reefs in Hawai’i, watch this video:
Reefs at Risk
Your kokua (help) is appreciated in ensuring the survival of these beautiful ecosystems.
By following these guidelines and respecting local wildlife, we can contribute to protecting and preserving Hawaiian marine life for generations to come. Let’s continue to be mindful guests in their ocean home!
Members! We are always looking to expand our image gallery, send us your photos and we will be sure to credit the photographer!
Attention, amazing Members! We’re on the hunt for your breathtaking photos to showcase in our gallery! Send us your stunning snaps and we will be sure to credit the incredible photographer.