The Decline of Maui’s Coral Reefs & Rise of Invasive Algae (Russel Sparks)
Channel: Ronald Cannarella
Date: 2012-06-02

A presentation at the Hawai`i Conservation Conference by Russell Sparks (DLNR, Div. of Aquatic Resources, Wailuku, HI) on "The Decline of Maui’s Coral Reefs, the Rise of Invasive Algae, and the Need for Herbivore Management". The results of seven years of coral reef monitoring around Maui will be presented, with a description of some alarming trends in coral reef declines. Maui's reefs are experiencing increasing stresses from overuse, problems with coastal water quality, depleted fish species including reductions in important herbivores, and the rapid growth of invasive algae. These alarming declines are even more troubling when combined with available monitoring data from the early 1990s. These study sites suggest that many of Maui’s coral reefs are quickly sliding down the slippery slope to slime. The question is: What if anything can be done about it? An experimental marine managed area is being planned for the popular North Kā‘anapali coastline. This MMA will be designed to protect and enhance important herbivores, with rules established to protect key herbivore fishes and invertebrates from harvest, while continuing to allow harvest of other popular marine organisms. The intent will be to see if increased grazing pressure can help control the invasive algae Acanthophora spicifera, and lessen stresses on the corals.

Hawaii Conservation Alliance
Executive Producer: Ronald Cannarella