The state fish of Hawaii is the Humuhumunukunukuapua’a, a rectangular triggerfish found in the Pacific Ocean’s coral reefs. It was chosen by a poll in 2006, despite controversy over its non-native status. The fish is known for its unique appearance, behavior, and sound.
The state fish of Hawaii is called Humuhumunukunukuapua’a, also known as the rectangular triggerfish. In Polynesian, the name describes the fish’s appearance. This is a very intriguing fish, as it has several interesting behavioral actions and can often be observed and identified while snorkelling.
The triggerfish was originally named the state fish of Hawaii in 1985. In 1990, the state law expired. The fish was not reinstated as an official state fish until 2006. It was chosen by the people of Hawaii through the use of a poll.
Over the years, there has been much controversy surrounding this choice as a state symbol. While no fish is found exclusively in the state, this particular variety is not native to Hawaii. Proponents argue that this is an appropriate choice, since this fish is not used for food and is not in danger of extinction through fishing.
The rectangular triggerfish is one of many types of triggerfish found in the ocean. It makes its home in the coral reefs of the Pacific Ocean. An interesting fact is that the fish has two different spines, which allows it to squeeze into very small places.
The long name, humuhumunukunukuaoua’a, describes the appearance of the fish in the Polynesian language. Humuhumu means small triggerfish, nukunuku means having a nose that looks like a small snout, and pua’a means pig. The easiest way to pronounce the name is “hoomoo hoomoo nookoo nookoo ah poo ah ah”. The fish’s name, Humuhumunukunukuapua’a, is found in the refrain of the Hawaiian song “My Little Grass Shack in Kealakekua, Hawaii,” first published in 1933.
Many Hawaiians believe that the state fish of Hawaii can talk. This is because sometimes the fish appear to grunt. Scientists believe that this unique sound is used by fish as a protective measure to ward off predators.
Snorkelers can also see triggerfish spitting water and sand from their mouths. This is one way the fish find any organisms or food hidden in the sand. Solitary and aggressive creatures, they are not typically found in large schools.
Identification can be made by looking for a distinct black triangle found on the underside of the tail fin. The fish also has black bands along the side, with a yellow colored upper body. There is also a small red band on the base of the side fins. You can see humuhumunikunukuapua’a fish while snorkeling.
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