Hawaiian Fishponds

Hawaiian fishponds are a type of aquaculture built by ancient Hawaiians. These ponds were used to cultivate fish, especially opelu (Decapterus macrosoma) and awa (acanthoclinium), which were important resources for the Hawaiian people. Fishponds were an important part of the Hawaiian ecosystem and culture and were built in a variety of sizes and shapes. Today, only a handful of Hawaiian fishponds are still in existence, but they remain an important part of Hawaii's history and culture. Hawaiian fishponds were usually built in shallow areas near the shoreline. The walls of the ponds were made from lava rocks, coral, and sand. The size and shape of the pond depended on the purpose for which it was being built. For example, some ponds were built for breeding fish, while others were used to rear young fish. The water in the pond was circulated using a system of bamboo pipes and ditches. This system allowed for a constant flow of freshwater, which was essential for the health of the fish.

Hawaiian fishponds provided a reliable source of food for the Hawaiian people. The ponds were also used to cultivate valuable resources, such as opelu and awa. In addition to being a source of good food and useable resources, Hawaiian fishponds also played an important role in the ecological balance of the Hawaiian Islands. The ponds served as nursery grounds for young fish and helped maintain the population of certain fish species. The decline in Hawaiian fishponds began in the 19th century when Westerners introduced new technologies and fish species to the Hawaiian Islands. The construction of dams and canals changed water flow in many areas, making it difficult for fishponds to function properly. The introduction of new fish species (such as tilapia) competed with native species for food and space. As a result, many Hawaiian fishponds were abandoned or destroyed. 

In recent years, there has been a renewed interest in Hawaiian fishponds. A number of organizations are working to restore and preserve these important cultural and ecological resources. The Hawaii State Legislature has also passed laws to protect Hawaiian Fishponds. With the community's support, it is hoped that Hawaiian fishponds will once again be a part of the Hawaiian landscape. These ponds are reminders of Hawaii's rich history and culture, and they provide a habitat for a variety of native fish species. Visitors to Hawaii can take guided tours of the fishponds, which offer a chance to learn about traditional Hawaiian fishing methods and see the ponds up close. Visitors can see turtles, frogs, and even sharks swimming in these ponds. Also, because coral reefs surround the ponds, they are great places for snorkeling and diving. So, if you are looking for something different to do on your next visit of day off, be sure to explore one of the island's several fishponds.

Additional Resources for Hawaiian Fishponds:

Additional Photos of Hawaiian Fishponds

Kalahuipua'a (Mauna Lani Fishponds) - Mauna Lani, Big Island

Kaloko- Honokohau Fishpond - Kailua Kona, Big Island

Kuualii Fishpond - Waikoloa, Big Island

Lalakea Fishpond - Hamakua Coast, Big Island

Loko-waka Fishpond - Hilo, Big Island