Reefs In Decline

by Saltwater Smarts | May 22, 2016 | Corals, DIY, Fish, Opinion, Reef, Science, Tanks | 1 comment

Kauai, Hawaii coastline taken during a helicopter tour

I have been lucky in my life to have had the opportunity to dive in some of the prettiest and most diverse underwater habitats on earth. Without exception, the nicest dive sites are far from civilization, which stands to reason. But today I want to talk about the places that are in trouble, biologically speaking.

Last year, I went to some of the outer Hawaiian Islands for a nice vacation and, of course, to dive. My wife and I went to Hawaii on our wedding anniversary 44 years ago, and I dove then too, so I had an opportunity to assess the place decades later. The diving then was good, plenty of varied life with a smattering of sharks. MORE

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Saltwater Smarts is a unique online resource created by long-time aquarists Chris Aldrich and Jeff Kurtz to inspire and entertain a new generation of marine aquarium hobbyists while helping them acquire the reliable, authoritative knowledge base they need to succeed with a saltwater system. By clarifying key concepts, techniques, and terminology, as well as sharing expert insights from fellow enthusiasts and industry professionals, Chris and Jeff hope to promote a more accessible, sustainable, and enjoyable marine aquarium hobby. Read more about our mission and the contributors who are part of our team.
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1 Comment

Marcin Smok on May 24, 2016 at 6:55 am
I have had the same experience with Hawaiian Islands. The reefs look like they are in decline compared to just few years ago. I was especially disappointed with area around the back wall of Molokini, which now looks completely devoid of life. The only healthy reefs I’ve seen were on the island of Hawai’i around Kealakekua Bay. I would like to go there in the winter someday and see the condition of reefs on the northern shore of Maui or Big Island. Kaua’i is a different story, the island is much more exposed to the current and waves, therefore reefs there consist mostly of coraline algae (which build massive reefs on their own anyway)
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