Video
Anchialine Pools: Uncovering the Hidden Secrets
Description
Join the island's own Dr. Scott R. Santos as he uncovers the hidden secrets of Hawai`i’s most famous endemic shrimp, `opae `ula (Halocaridina rubra.) The anchialine habitats of Hawai`i are coastal features defined as "pools with no surface connection to the sea, containing salt or brackish water, which fluctuates with the tides" and are typically land-locked open pools and cracks like those found in Hawaii Volcanoes National Park and along the Kona coast. Although these habitats have been documented in many places, the Hawaiian Islands have the single largest concentration of anchialine pools in the world (approximately 520). Unfortunately, many of these jewel-like pools have been modified or destroyed in the last 50 years either in the process of coastal development or by the introduction and spread of exotic species. Understanding the biology of wildlife inhabiting anchialine habitats is paramount to developing sound management and conservation plans for these unique ecosystems. Tonight, Hawai`i Volcanoes National Park unveils the newest Kilauea Visitor Center attraction - a living Anchialine Pool Exhibit featuring native Hawaiian shrimp.
Duration
1 hour, 12 minutes, 14 seconds
Credit
Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park
Date Created
07/05/2011
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