Kona Science Cafe Presents Coral Spawning and Reef Aquaculture

All of us care about Kona's reefs, and recent progress in aquaculture and marine science gives us hope for helping the reef. Technology for raising reef fish has evolved to the point where some aquarium fish can be raised profitably, and the May 2018 cauliflower coral spawn led to some exciting discoveries about coral larvae and their potential for culture.

Forty years of research has gradually increased the number and types of fishes we can raise. Syd will show pictures of a variety of fish and invertebrate larvae, and discuss their relation to reef health. Lindsey will share her preliminary results of cauliflower coral spawning, larval life, and substrate preference, and discuss other aspects of local reef health. She will show pictures of microscopic coral larvae and settlers that have inspired awe from the research community.

Lindsey has been working on coral reef conservation projects on the Big Island since 2007, including projects with the University of Hawai`i at Hilo, the Division of Aquatic Resources (DAR), and the National Park Service. As the Eyes of the Reef Network Coordinator for Hawai`i Island, she hopes to continue to foster strong involvement from the dedicated and passionate community of ocean-goers on the Big Island.

Syd is the owner of Pacific Planktonics, a marine fish hatchery at NELHA. In his 45 years as a fish scientist, he has helped develop the aquaculture of several food fish, such as mahimahi, moi, kampachi (kahala), and tuna, and is currently producing angelfishes for aquariums.

After the presentation, we will have pupus, drinks, and conversation. There will also be a poster session put on by a geography class from Sam Houston State University in Texas, which is traveling to Hawaii Island for field experience in June. We are informal and it is potluck, so please bring a pupu and non-alcoholic beverage to share. Reusable plates and cups are encouraged, as is taking home your own trash.

Agenda:

5:00-5:15 p.m. Gather and Networking

5:15-6:15 p.m. Presentation and Q&A

6:15-7:30 p.m. More Networking, pupus, poster session