Hawaii's Ecosystem

The Hawaiian Islands contain around 150 distinct ecosystems, which makes this one of the most diverse bio-regions in the world. Some of these ecosystems have remained unchanged for millions of years, while others are under threat.

Types of Ecosystems

• Hawaii's coral reefs are home to thousands of marine species. coral reef image by Christian Schoettler from Fotolia.com

  The islands' marine ecosystems include tropical reefs, which are vital to the survival of numerous marine species. On land, ecosystems range from tropical dry forests, alpine deserts and sub-alpine grasslands to coastal dunes and subterranean lava tubes.

History

• The Hawaiian Islands were isolated for about 70 million years, so the endemic species of flora and fauna were found nowhere else on Earth. Creatures occasionally found their way to the Islands from other regions, but until the arrival of man, there were no predatory or grazing animals and no reptiles in Hawaii.

Threats

• Hawaii has the highest rate of endangered and extinct species on Earth. Around half of its ecosystems have become endangered as a direct result of human activities such as agriculture, fishing and construction. For example, almost 90 percent of lowland dry forests have been destroyed. Most of the damage is around coastal areas, where the largest population centers are. Introduction of alien species, such as snakes, has also had a devastating effect on the balance of Hawaii's ecosystems.

Action for Conservation

• Conservation and land management groups, including the government and U.S. Army, are involved in projects to conserve the islands' ecosystems, including the creation of nature and marine preserves. Other conservation programs include initiatives to prevent the import of alien species, reef monitoring projects, fisheries programs and public education schemes.