Protecting Hawai’i’s Reef from the Aquarium Trade

Important wildlife in Hawai’i’s reef ecosystems are being captured for private aquariums, exposing the reefs to algal growth and robbing them of resiliency. Earthjustice is fighting to stop this destructive practice so that Hawaii’s reefs have a fighting chance to survive.

Case Overview

Aquarium collectors capture hundreds of thousands of fish and invertebrates from Hawaiʻi’s reefs every year. Alarmingly, the Hawaiʻi’s Department of Land and Natural Resources (DLNR) has stated that this should be considered a minimum estimate because it does not verify the accuracy of submitted catch reports.

The collected animals are primarily herbivorous, reef-dwellers that serve unique functions in the coral reef ecosystem, such as helping to control algae growth.

Studies have shown that reducing diversity of reef fish and shellfish affects a reef’s ability to respond to stresses or disturbances. This is vitally important as reefs come under serious pressure from global threats, including climate change and ocean acidification.

In a series of lawsuits, Earthjustice filed suit on behalf of local conservation groups to stop the reckless collection of marine animals that threaten to empty Hawaiʻi reefs.

An aquarium collector takes fish from a reef in Hawai`i.
An aquarium collector takes fish from a reef in Hawai`i. (Photo provided by Brooke Everett)

Case Updates

Illustration of underwater attack. Three divers, two with nets, one with a camera. One diver with a net in hand has other hand removing the mouth piece of the diver with the camera. Reef below with fishes swimming.
April 20, 2022 feature

Hawai‘i’s Aquarium Pet Trade Was a Deadly Business.

How Earthjustice stopped Hawai‘i’s deadly aquarium pet trade.

October 9, 2021 Press Release

Hawai‘i Land Board Rejects Aquarium Pet Trade Yet Again

Impact statement for O‘ahu falls short of state law requirements, Board says

July 13, 2021 Document

Coalition Sues Hawai‘i Land Board to Halt Reopening of Aquarium Pet Trade

Coalition Sues Hawai‘i Land Board to Halt Reopening of Aquarium Pet Trade