Research Algal Dynamics (Maunalua Bay, Oahu)
Dr. Florence Thomas, PI

First discovered off the coast of O'ahu 28 years ago, the invasive macroalgae Avrainvillea amadelpha is slowly overgrowing the extensive Halophila seagrass meadows found in the area of Maunalua Bay and Kalaeloa.  Since it is a relatively slow-growing algae and recent research indicates the seagrass' high rate of survivability, there is a positive outlook for restoration of the natural habitat.  Toward this end, the Hawaii Coral Reef Initiative (HCRI) will sponsor Dr. Florence Thomas' project--working in conjunction with local community-based organizations such as The Nature Conservancy and Malama Maunalua as well as Hawaii's Department of Aquatic Resources and the Hawaiian Voyaging Class at Kaiser High School--to develop the best practice for removal of the invasive algal population and restoration of the reef using native Hawaiian practices.  The project will also focus on the investigation of the effects of nutrient uptakes in the water column of both Halophila seagrasses and A. amadelpha for future research efforts.  

This project is scheduled to begin in September 2009.  A progress report will be posted in June 2010.