Seaweed resources of the Hawaiian Islands

Up-to-date information about the unique marine flora of the Hawaiian Islands – its environment, uses, cultivation, conservation, and threats – comes from many sources, and is compiled here for the first time. The seaweed resources of the Hawaiian Islands are taxonomically diverse, biogeographically intriguing, ecologically complex, culturally significant, and economically valuable. Macroalgae, historically and today, are critical components of the marine ecosystem, as well as the diet and culture of people living in the islands. Some Hawaiian seaweeds are known to contain valuable bioactive compounds that have potential medical and pharmaceutical applications. Cultivation of Hawaiian seaweeds is carried out in tanks, ponds, and along the shoreline, both commercially and by “back-yard” farmers. Several community groups are actively working to preserve cultural knowledge, to re-plant the reefs, and to remove invasive algal species. The seaweed resources of Hawaiʻi are cherished, but are at risk. The future of seaweed cultivation, maintenance and revitalization of native populations, and preservation of cultural knowledge relies on the collaborative efforts of all stakeholders.