Uploaded March 2026 | Updated September 2026, 1 hour ago
Read the story: civilbeat.org/2026/03/a-do-or-die-moment-for-one-of-hawaiis-most-contested-trades
The fish native to our reefs are highly sought after and represent a multibillion-dollar industry abroad. Here at home, aquarium-fish harvesting is one of Hawaiʻi’s most hotly debated environmental issues, and it’s nearing a new crossroads.
Momentum is building in the Legislature for a total ban of the practice, which has led to declining levels of species sought by the pet trade, such as lauʻīpala, or yellow tang.
Meanwhile, state officials are moving to revive Big Island fish collections for the first time since 2017. And the pet trade industry is calling in the big guns: one of Hawaiʻi’s most powerful lobbyists.
Read the story: civilbeat.org/2026/03/a-do-or-die-moment-for-one-of-hawaiis-most-contested-trades
The fish native to our reefs are highly sought after and represent a multibillion-dollar industry abroad. Here at home, aquarium-fish harvesting is one of Hawaiʻi’s most hotly debated environmental issues, and it’s nearing a new crossroads.
Momentum is building in the Legislature for a total ban of the practice, which has led to declining levels of species sought by the pet trade, such as lauʻīpala, or yellow tang.
Meanwhile, state officials are moving to revive Big Island fish collections for the first time since 2017. And the pet trade industry is calling in the big guns: one of Hawaiʻi’s most powerful lobbyists.
