Invertebrates

Zoanthus

NPS Photo

Kaloko-Honokōhau National Historical Park is home to a diverse range of marine invertebrates. The term “invertebrate” describes the wide range of animals that don’t have a backbone. These fascinating creatures play a crucial role in the park’s marine ecosystem, contributing to the biodiversity and health of the coral reefs and coastal waters. From vibrant corals to elusive octopuses, the park’s invertebrate population gives a remarkable glimpse of the richness of marine life in Hawai‘i.

Ancient Hawaiians recognized the importance of marine invertebrates and used these creatures for food, decoration and offerings to the gods. The Kumulipo, the Hawaiian creation chant, further elaborates that after the Ko’a (coral polyp), sea stars, sea cucumbers, and sea urchins were created, each increasing in complexity. Early translators of the chant observed that the order of species in the Kumulipo closely aligns with modern biological classifications.

(Line 18) Hanau ka Pe‘a, ka Pe‘ape‘a kana keiki puka
Born was the starfish, his child the small starfish came forth

(Line 19) Hanau ka Weli, he Weliweli kana keiki, puka
Born was the sea cucumber, his child the small sea cucumber came forth

(Line 20) Hanau ka ‘Ina, ka ‘Ina
Born was the sea urchin, the sea urchin [tribe]

 

Rock-boring urchin

NPS Photo

Echinoderms

Echinoderms, such as sea urchins, sea cucumbers, and sea stars, are integral to the park's marine ecosystem. These species are not only fascinating to observe but also play essential roles in maintaining the health of coral reefs. Sea urchins and sea cucumbers are commonly seen on the reefs and tidepools at the park.

• Sea Urchins: By grazing on algae, sea urchins help prevent algae overgrowth that can smother corals. These herbivores are essential to the health of the reef. The ancient Hawaiians had distinct names for at least four different groups of urchins based on the length and thickness of their spines: wana, ‘ina, hāwa‘e, and hā‘uke‘uke. Stepping on these spiky invertebrates can be very painful. Watch your step as you walk along tidepools.

• Sea Cucumbers: These invertebrates recycle nutrients by breaking down detritus and other organic matter on the seafloor. They help keep the water clean and free of diseases.

 

Nudibranch

NPS Photo

Molluscs

Molluscs are soft, legless animals that usually build their own calcium carbonate shells, such as snails and clams, but also include popular free-living organisms like octopuses and squid. These creatures are not only vital for the ecosystem but also fascinating for visitors to learn about.

• Octopuses: Known for their intelligence and ability to camouflage, octopuses are masters of disguise and an exciting sight for divers and snorkelers. Can you spot the octopus in the picture below?

• Snails and Clams: These shelled molluscs contribute to the park’s biodiversity and provide food for various predators. Cowry shells are often found on the shore or in tidepools.

• Nudibranchs: These molluscs are a type of sea slug that always lose their shells as adults and have their gills outside of their body. Although they are quite small, usually less than five centimeters in length, they are very famous for their vibrant color patterns.

 

ʻŌpae

NPS Photo

Crustaceans

Crustaceans, such as crabs, lobsters, and shrimp, are another key group of marine invertebrates in the park. These species are crucial for the health of the marine environment and are a delight for visitors to spot.

• Crabs: With their hard exoskeletons and powerful claws, crabs are efficient scavengers and predators. Hermit crabs are commonly found in the park’s tidepools. These small invertebrates actually occupy the empty shells that snails leave behind.

• Lobsters (ula): These nocturnal creatures have been a prized food in Hawai‘i since the olden times. They were sometimes substituted for pigs when making offerings to the gods.

• Shrimp (‘ōpae): These invertebrates are found in both anchialine pools and marine environments. In the anchialine pools, tiny red shrimp can be found grazing on algae. On the reefs and tidepools, banded coral shrimp are colorful residents of the park.