reef teach: coral reef etiquette
According to the Nature Conservancy book The Living Reef, a coral reef is a living organism, and a living reef gives our islands life. In the main Hawaiian islands, pollution, sedimentation, alien species, overfishing, and other threats are degrading our reefs. The Kohala Center developed the ReefTeach program to educate swimmers and other people entering the coral reef environment on how to protect the coral reef ecosystem. ReefTeach reef ettiquette is:
- When snorkeling or diving you should not touch, walk on, stand on or break live corals. Corals are living animals that provide food and shelter to other reef animals.
- Try not to kick up sand or sediment when on the reef - it blocks sunlight that is essential to reef animals such as corals.
- Do not remove anything from the reef - everything has a purpose. Taking live coral or rock with attached marine life is illegal in Hawai'i.
- Hawaiian reef fish play a vital role to the health of the reef system because they feed on algae. Fish feeding upsets the natural balance on the reed - introduced food can be harmful to fish. It is also illegal.
- If you are using sunscreen, use and environmentally friendly brand and put it on at least 15 minutes before you enter the water.
- Try and observe sea turtles on the shore from a distance of at least 10 feet and do not disturb resting turtles on the ocean floor, under ledges or on rocks. When swimming give turtles space and do not touch them.
- Dispose of your trash properly! Plastics in the water can damage and kill marine life
