Aquatic Invasive Species Team Quarterly Update (2025 Q1)

Posted on Oct 13, 2025 in Main, slider

Aquatic Invasive Species Team Quarterly Update (2025 Q1) 

January 2025 – March 2025 

Invasive Algae Management and Coral Restoration

  • The AIS team outplanted 16,500 urchins to Kāneʻohe Bay as part of continued efforts to mitigate invasive algae. Read more about urchin outplanting as a part of the Cape Flattery Settlement Restoration project here.
  • Continued to assist the DAR urchin hatchery with broodstock collection, spat counts, and harvesting.
  • The AIS team monitored 105 coral modules outplanted by the Hawaiʻi Coral Restoration Nursery at two outplant sites on the south shore of Oʻahu, Kakaʻako and Reef Runway. Modules are monitored regularly over the 5 years following outplanting.

Rapid Response

Anemonia manjano in Kāneʻohe Bay

 

  • Continued Structure from Motion (SfM) efforts to capture a 3D model of the Anemonia manjano invasion zone. This model will help determine the extent and impact of the invasion on the surrounding reef. 
  • Collected samples of A. manjano to conduct small-scale lethality trials and evaluate different eradication methods, including chlorine treatment with tarping and epoxy.
  • Conducted surveys following reports of a grounded vessel near Heʻeia Fishpond.

Monitoring and Management

  • Conducted SNAP surveys in Kāneʻohe Bay. These surveys provide a “snapshot” of the reef so DAR can continue to monitor invasive algae populations and effectively distribute urchins for the urchin biocontrol program.

    A SNAP survey stick landing on native coral and invasive Eucheuma/ Kappaphycus.

  • Continued monitoring non-native coral removal sites in Kāneʻohe Bay for new colonies.

Partner Agency Collaboration

  • Collaborated with partners in the Hawaiʻi Invasive Octocorals Working Group to develop a shared database for inter-organizational exchange of Unomia stolonifera survey data and to map the resulting contributions.
  • Delivered A. manjano samples to Thierry Work for experimental heat treatments, which required higher temperatures and exposure times than expected. 

Training and Conferences

  • Collaborated with NOAA to host the Motorboat Operator Certification Course (MOCC) to train DAR staff in safe operation of motorboats, including a review of legal requirements, preparations, navigation, operations, emergency procedures, rescue, self-rescue, trailering, fire suppression, and basic seamanship.

    MOCC participants practicing close quarter maneuvering drills.

  • Led a DAR-wide training course on the prevention, identification, and proper reporting pathways for U. stolonifera.
  • Participated in a workshop focused on using satellite imagery to detect and monitor the spread of the invasive algae Chondria tumulosa.
  • Participated in a Papahānaumokuākea Resource Protection Working Group Strategic Workshop hosted by NOAA. 

Outreach

  • Delivered pamphlets and fliers on A. manjano to local businesses, harbors, yacht clubs, and organizations in Kāneʻohe and Kailua.
  • Attended and tabled at the annual ‘Āina Momona day in Lāʻie.
  • Attended Pilina Kanaloa (Ocean Day) at the state capital.
  • Presented to Koʻolaupoko Hawaiian Civic Club and the Kāneʻohe Neighborhood Board to communicate with stakeholders about the A. manjano eradication efforts in Kāneʻohe Bay. 

Personnel

  • Hired Eric Dilley as the HCRI AIS Rapid Response Coordinator.
  • Hired Sydney Cook as a Fishery Technician IV.