Science & Data/Research & Monitoring/Fish Tagging Projects
Fish Tagging Projects
Tracking Hawai‘i’s reef and bottomfish to unlock their movement, growth and inform sustainable fishing.
Fish Tagging and Tracking
- Many of Hawai‘i’s reef fish species are highly prized for their taste and the thrill of catching them. Key species include ulua, pāpio, moi, ‘ō‘io, and goatfish (weke and relatives).
- Due to their popularity and heavy fishing pressure, resource managers need detailed knowledge of life histories and movement patterns.
Mark and Recapture Studies
- DAR conducts mark and recapture studies with volunteer anglers to learn about growth rates and movement patterns of ulua and pāpio.
- Free tagging kits are provided to fishers, who measure, tag, release, and report data to DAR.
- Anglers who recapture tagged fish receive awards such as t-shirts and posters.
- While the original ulua and pāpio program has ended, DAR now works with anglers to tag moi, weke, and ‘ō‘io.
Acoustic Tagging
- Marking provides general movement info, but more precise tracking uses acoustic transmitters, which emit coded sound signals detected by underwater receiver arrays.
- This technique has been applied to ulua, mullet, and certain bottomfish species.
Bottomfish Studies
- Popular deep-water bottomfish such as opakapaka, kalekale, and onaga are highly sought for food and cultural value.
- Managers need data on preferred habitats and movement patterns to ensure sustainable fishing.
- By deploying receiver networks and tagging bottomfish with acoustic tags, biologists can track movements and gather critical information for effective management.
For full project details, check out the Sportfish Restoration Fund page