HomeMy WebLinkAboutCOM 0862.067 2008-2010 Testimony for Resolution #363 -10 (disallowing the collection of reef fish for aquariums)
Nathaniel Goodale
Age: 17; 12 grade
73 -4503 Kohanaiki Rd.
Kailua -Kona HI 96740
Nathaniel@goodale.org
goodale.org
Yes, I would like this resolution to pass. Below are my reasons for banning
the collection of reef fish for aquariums:
1. Removing large numbers of juvenile fish depletes current fish stocks. It also
depletes future fish stocks because it removes future brood stock before they
have had an opportunity to reproduce.
2. Revenue from tourism far surpasses that of the aquarium fishery, and much of
Hawaii's tourism is based on beautiful coral reefs, with an abundance of colorful
fish.
3. There are only a few aquarium fishermen, but there are hundreds of thousands
residents, and tourists who fish, swim, snorkel, and SCUBA dive on these reefs.
The fish do not belong to just a few. They are a resource for all.
4. Aquarium fishermen selectively catch large numbers of fish who eat algae.
Removing large numbers of herbivorous fish from the ecosystem can seriously
change its balance. The ecological balance on coral reefs is very delicate and can
be tipped in favor of less diversity, favoring algae over coral.
5. I do not want to see people put out of work, but if the reefs are damaged due to
the intense removal of fish, then many, many more people in the Kona
community will be put out of work.
In summary, a healthy coral reef exists in a delicate balance. The
aquarium fishery should be banned in order to preserve these
invaluable reefs.
Thank you for your time and consideration.
Nathaniel Goodale
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