Coral Reefs

Hawaii Coral Reef Network
http://www.coralreefnetwork.com/
Corals look like rocks, but they are actually colonies of tiny animals. Coral polyps secrete a stony cup of limestone around itself as a skeleton with the help of coralline algae. The polyps divide and grow to form coral colonies. As many colonies build upon one another they gradually form a coral reef.

Reefs protect the shoreline from waves and storms, help create surf breaks, and help to create much of the white sand beaches. Coral grows less than 2 inches per year. Natural forces such as storms, heavy rains and sediment run-off can damage corals. Overfishing, and run-off of chemicals also threaten the reefs. Hawaii's coral reefs are a fragile natural resource. Help protect our reefs as you snorkel, dive or swim around them.

• Choose a snorkel or dive operator that undertakes sustainable diving practices. Take only photos, leave only bubbles, look don't touch.
• Don't walk or stand on living coral - this can kill living coral polyps.
• Snorkel in a horizontal position.
• Anchors damage reefs, Tie up at mooring pins or anchor only in sand away from living reef
• Do not touch or break off pieces of coral.
• Taking live coral or rock with attached marine life is illegal in Hawaii.
• Don't feed the fish-- this changes the fish community structure and tames them and encourages the proliferation of more aggressive species.
• Don't touch, pick up or hold reef inhabitants.
• Don't pollute. Use fewer household chemicals especially on your lawn or garden.
• Support the marine protected areas.
• Leave animals, shells and rocks where you find them
• Sea turtles and marine mammals are special and protected by law, give them space
  

Do not touch animals in reef areas. Sea urchins, sea stars or sea cucumbers have a delicate suction feet that can be torn or injured when they are removed from their habitats. Don't pull octopuses from their habitats. They have sharp beaks and can bite. Their primary defenses include remaining camouflaged, being able to withdraw far into the reef, or inking to create a smoke screen if detected.