Fish breakthrough good news for Hawai'i

That story about a breakthrough that may allow the commercial captive breeding of ornamental reef fish is more than an intriguing scientific discovery.

Scientists cooperating on ways to feed and nurture the larval stage of colorful reef fish have successfully bred at least three prized varieties: the flame angelfish, the masked angelfish and Fisher's angelfish. All three are found in Hawaiian waters and are popular with saltwater fish fanciers around the world.

Since some 400,000 reef fish are taken from Hawai'i reefs each year, this breakthrough — it it can be converted to commercial production — promises great relief for the wild population of tropical fish in the Islands.

While ethical collectors and wholesalers are careful to protect the resource, the demand for these fish creates a market that sometimes is filled by those who have less than adequate concern for the long-term viability of the species. Maintaining a healthy wild stock will enhance the experience of reef snorkelers and divers and ensure continued biodiversity even as captive stocks continue.

There is a possibility of an export business of captive- bred tropical fish that far exceeds what takes place today.

But beyond creating a new niche industry for Hawai'i, these breakthroughs signal the growth of a new "export" industry for the state. Aquaculture is already a major source of the world's fish supply, not simply for ornamentals but for food stock. While aquaculture is common in much of the world, particularly Asia, the science of breeding fish in captivity is still developing. Local scientists, at the Oceanic Institute, at the University of Hawai'i and elsewhere, are international leaders in this technology.

This is a technology Hawai'i can and should export. We can share our expertise with the world and establish the Islands as a global leader in this important 21st-century enterprise.