NOAA Live! Pacific Islands - Following ‘Ō‘io: The Life of Hawaiian Bonefishes

Keith Kamikawa, Hawai‘i-born fisher and fisheries extension agent with Lynker Technologies, will give us a glimpse at the life of Hawaiian bonefishes and the role that habitat plays in each stage of life.

About

Fishery Extension Agent holding a Hawaiian bonefish/Oio.

Keith Kamikawa, Hawai‘i Fisheries Extension Agent with Lynker Technologies at the NOAA Pacific Islands Regional Office, handles a tagged ‘ō‘io (Hawaiian bonefish, Albula sp.) in the sand flats of Keʻehi Lagoon, O‘ahu, Hawai‘i.

It’s easy to follow friends and family who are important to us through social media. But there is no Facebook for fish. So how do we keep track of fish species that are important to our fisheries? Hawai‘i is home to two species of bonefish, including one found nowhere else in the world. Let’s take a look at ‘ō‘io (bonefish) in Hawai‘i, a favorite catch for local anglers, and follow them throughout their lives. By building their life history “profile,” we can learn how to protect their habitat and fish sustainably. This will ensure that the next generation can enjoy a future where fishing traditions―and fish―thrive.

This webinar is targeted to students grades 2–6 but is suitable for all ages to enjoy.

View recorded webinar

Learn More

Habitat Map-Making Activity

Make your own habitat map to learn about the life stages of ‘ō‘io across many habitats. You can print your map or color it on a tablet or computer. Go to the activity →

Career Profile as a Fishery Extension Agent

View Keith's career profile (PDF, 2 pages) as Fishery Extension Agent for NOAA Fisheries Pacific Islands Regional Office and frequently asked questions.

Get to Know NOAA Habitat Restoration in Your Area

Fish depend on healthy habitat! Check out the NOAA Habitat Restoration Atlas to find out about restoration projects in your area. The searchable map highlights projects across the nation, including community-based restoration projects.

Fish With Care

Be a FAST (Fishing Around Seals and Turtles) responder! It’s OK to call for help! If you’re not in Hawai‘i, learn how you can help protected animals in your area.
Measure your catch! Check out the Hawai‘i Nearshore Fishes Measuring Guide to figure out which fish to keep or release, or find out about fishing in your area.

Find out about the NOAA Live! 4 Kids webinar series and other Pacific Islands region webinars broadcasting live in May.

Last updated by Pacific Islands Regional Office on 12/13/2022