An invasive algae already well-established in the Northwestern Hawaiian Islands is raising concern among researchers as it threatens to spread into the main Hawaiian Islands. Scientists from the University of �鶹��ý at Mānoa and the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS) have identified a potential ally in slowing its advance: sea turtles.

Hawaiian green sea turtles (honu) have been documented for the first time actively grazing on Chondria tumulosa, an aggressive invasive red alga that has spread rapidly across reefs among three of the northernmost atolls in Papahānaumokuākea Marine National Monument (PMNM).

The findings, recently published in the journal by researchers, suggest that honu may play a meaningful role in controlling this ecologically damaging species—while also potentially spreading it.

“After these exciting finds, our multi-partner effort to prevent this seaweed from taking hold in the Main Hawaiian Islands must include a plan to increase numbers of threatened, native green sea turtles, as well as ramping up efforts to identify all routes that could allow Chondria to spread to Oʻahu,” said Celia Smith, UH Mānoa‘s professor and senior author of the study.

Dangers of C. tumulosa

First detected at Manawai (Pearl and Hermes Atoll) in 2016, C. tumulosa has since expanded to more than 101 square kilometers of reef habitat (nearly the size of Kahoʻolawe), including Kuaihelani (Midway Atoll) in 2021 and Hōlanikū (Kure Atoll) in 2022. The alga forms dense mats more than 6 centimeters thick that can smother live coral and displace native reef species, making it one of the most pressing threats to the monument’s reef ecosystems.

Turtles take a bite

Using a stationary GoPro camera deployed on a reef at Midway Atoll in June and July 2025, the research team captured approximately 50 minutes of footage showing three honu grazing on C. tumulosa mats. One female took up to 18 bites in a 95-second burst, leaving disruptions 5–15 cm in diameter across the algal canopy—substantially larger than what urchins or fish could achieve. A complementary necropsy of a stranded adult female confirmed C. tumulosa fragments throughout her digestive tract, accounting for roughly 25% of the material in her esophagus and crop.

“These turtles are consuming a meaningful amount of this alga in a single foraging session,” said Tammy Summers, USFWS staff biologist and co-author of the study. “It’s exciting because it points to honu as a native megaherbivore with the potential to suppress C. tumulosa biomass—but it also raises important questions about whether fragments excreted during their migrations between atolls could accelerate the alga’s spread.”

The findings carry immediate management implications. Because 96% of Hawaiian green sea turtles nesting occurs at Lalo (French Frigate Shoals) before individuals disperse to foraging grounds across the archipelago, the authors recommend eDNA monitoring at Lalo to track potential spread of C. tumulosa beyond its known range.

The study was a collaboration between UH Mānoa‘s School of Life Sciences and USFWS Midway Atoll National Wildlife Refuge, and was funded by USFWS Invasive Species Strike Team funds through a cooperative agreement with UH Mānoa. Smith leads the Limu Lab at UH Mānoa, where research on C. tumulosa physiology, distribution and ecology has been ongoing for several years. Other authors on the paper are Caroline Pott from USFWS and Angela Richards Donà from the School of Life Sciences.

This work was accomplished under permit numbers PMNM-2025-001, USFWS 274 Recovery Permit TE72088A-3, Recovery Sub-permit TE163899-2, NOAA Permit 21260, and 275 State of �鶹��ý, Department of Land and Natural Resources Special Activity Permit 2026-01.

The School of Life Sciences is housed in UH Mānoa‘s .

Related UH News stories on UH Mānoa research on C. tumulosa:

• Nuisance alga detected beyond Papahānaumokuākea for the 1st time, December 16, 2024
• Early detection system for nuisance alga infesting Papahānaumokuākea reefs, September 25, 2022
• Algae species discovered infesting NW waters has been identified, July 7, 2020

Five subject areas were placed in the world’s top 1%, and an additional four earned top 2% honors in the 2026 , released on January 21.

Education led the way, ranked in the No. 101–125 tier, followed by physical sciences at No. 126–150, arts and humanities at No. 151–175, and law and life sciences each at No. 201–250. To qualify in the world’s top 1%, rankings must be within the top 250 in the world () UH Mānoa was ranked in all 11 of the 2026 Times Higher Education World University Rankings by Subject lists.

“We are proud that UH Mānoa continues to be recognized globally, reflecting our commitment to academic excellence, research and the student experience,” UH Mānoa Interim Provost Vassilis L. Syrmos said. “These rankings underscore the hard work and dedication of our faculty, students and staff, who make UH Mānoa a truly exceptional place.”

All UH Mānoa rankings:

• Education studies: No. 101–125
• Physical sciences: No. 126–150
• Arts and humanities: No. 151–175
• Law: No. 201–250
• Life sciences: No. 201–250
• Social sciences: No. 251–300
• Medical and health: No. 301–400
• Psychology: No. 301–400
• Business and economics: No. 401–500
• Computer science: No. 501–600
• Engineering: No. 501–600

Times Higher Education considers the following factors for its rankings: teaching, research environment, research quality, industry income and international outlook. Regarded as one of the leading national and international university rankings focused on research and academic excellence, Times Higher Education considered between 425–1,555 of the top institutions for each of its subject rankings, out of more than 25,000 institutions worldwide, to be eligible for its World University Rankings by Subject.

Other rankings

UH Mānoa also received these notable rankings:

• 2025 Global Ranking of Academic Subjects, January 4, 2026
• 2026 Times Higher Education World University Rankings, October 9, 2025
• Wall Street Journal/College Pulse 2026 Best Colleges in the U.S. rankings, October 2, 2025
• U.S. News and World Report 2026 Best Colleges rankings, September 23, 2025

For more information, .

A new species of bacteria has been discovered off the coast of Oʻahu, shedding light on how unseen microbial life connects �鶹��ý’s land and sea ecosystems.

Researchers at the University of �鶹��ý at Mānoa identified Caulobacter inopinatus, a previously unknown species of bacteria found in seawater collected near a beach on Oʻahu’s south shore. The finding——was unexpected because all other known species in the Caulobacter genus (a scientific group that includes closely related species) are from freshwater or soil environments, not the ocean.

The discovery, made during a UH Mānoa undergraduate marine microbiology class, began as a routine demonstration on how to grow bacteria from seawater samples. When one colony growing on a Petri dish looked different from all the other colonies, further testing confirmed it was something entirely new.

From land to sea

Scientists found that C. inopinatus cannot survive in salt concentrations typical of seawater, despite being isolated from it. This paradox led researchers to investigate how it ended up in the ocean. They determined it was likely transported from land by submarine groundwater discharge—the natural movement of fresh groundwater through the seabed into the sea. These discharges are known to carry nutrients and pollutants into nearshore waters; in this case, they may also move land-based microorganisms. Microbial exchanges are important because bacteria play critical roles in nutrient cycling, water quality and coastal ecosystem health.

“Understanding how microbes move between land and sea helps scientists track the flow of nutrients and contaminants that can affect coastal water quality, fisheries and coral reef health—issues that directly impact �鶹��ý’s communities and economy,” said study co-author and UH Mānoa Professor Stuart Donachie. “Discoveries like C. inopinatus help us better trace how land-based activities and natural processes influence marine environments at a microscopic level.”

The species name, inopinatus, comes from the Latin word for “unexpected,” reflecting both the chance nature of its discovery and its surprising characteristics.

Collaborative work

The research was part of ongoing microbial diversity studies led by Donachie. Undergraduate researchers Austin Dubord and Mia Sadones contributed to the project through UH ��ā�ԴDz�’s , which supports student-led research and creative work. Collaborators included UH Mānoa faculty Michael Norris and Jennifer Saito, graduate students Chiyoko Onouye and Thi Hai Au La, and University of Mississippi Assistant Professor and UH Mānoa PhD graduate Rebecca Prescott.

The study is dedicated to the late UH Mānoa Earth Sciences Professor Craig Glenn (1954–2024), whose pioneering research on submarine groundwater discharge in �鶹��ý helped illuminate how freshwater and seawater interact along island coastlines, and to former UH undergraduate student Justin Bukunt (1983–2011), whose early research on groundwater discharge at Kawaikui Beach Park informed this discovery. Their contributions continue to inspire new generations of scientists exploring �鶹��ý’s unique coastal environments.

The School of Life Sciences is housed in UH ��ā�ԴDz�’s .

The University of �鶹��ý at ��ā�ԴDz�’s and the (PEPP) in UH ��ā�ԴDz�’s joined forces with Honolulu Beerworks to host “Sips for Seedlings,” an outreach and fundraising event on October 11, at Honolulu Beerworks’ new Kalihi taproom.

The event, which drew more than 200 people, spotlighted efforts to protect �鶹��ý’s most endangered native plants, while inviting the community to learn more through hands-on engagement and collaboration.

Attendees enjoyed the re-release of Hāhā-Loha, a limited-edition grape sour ale inspired by the conservation of rare Hawaiian plants. The beer was originally created through a partnership among the three organizations to spark public interest in native plant protection. A portion of proceeds from beer sales, as well as contributions from Shaka Mobile Bar and Local Boiz Mixed Tea, supported ongoing conservation and education work at Lyon Arboretum and PEPP.

Throughout the day, Lyon Arboretum staff shared educational materials, photographs and displays highlighting the islands’ threatened flora. Visitors also had the opportunity to purchase plants grown by the arboretum and participate in keiki-friendly activities designed to foster awareness of native ecosystems.

“Our goal is to make conservation approachable and engaging for everyone,” said Lyon Arboretum Education Manager Raedelle Van Fossen. “Events like ‘Sips for Seedlings’ remind our community that protecting �鶹��ý’s native plants isn’t just about science—it’s about connection, culture and ensuring these species have a future in our islands.”

The Hāhā-Loha label featured artwork by UH Hilo alumna and former Lyon Arboretum summer intern Saxony Charlot, whose work celebrates �鶹��ý’s biodiversity and the people dedicated to preserving it.

On islands, many plants rely on animals such as birds, bats and reptiles to disperse their seeds and help them grow in new places. When native animals go extinct, this naturally reduces seed dispersal. However, a new global study, , has discovered that the impact of introduced, invasive animal species on how plant seeds are dispersed across island ecosystems is even greater than the impact of native animal extinctions.

The study analyzed data from 120 islands across 22 archipelagos, examining how extant native, extinct native, and introduced vertebrate frugivores—animals that eat fruit and disperse seeds—affect plant reproduction. The findings of how significantly invasives are altering seed dispersal across islands highlight the severity of the new challenges for plant reproduction and ecosystem health. The study is co-authored by Donald Drake, professor in the UH Mānoa in the and interim director of .

“Understanding how introduced species reshape ecological interactions is crucial for planning effective conservation strategies,” Drake said. “In �鶹��ý, where native ecosystems are particularly vulnerable, these findings underscore the need for proactive management to preserve our unique biodiversity.”

The study reported that non-native mammals, especially omnivorous mammals, such as pigs and rats, have often replaced native frugivorous birds, bats and tortoises. These replacements frequently have different physical traits, such as smaller or larger gape sizes (the width of an animal’s mouth or bill), which affects the size of seeds they can carry. And they sometimes destroy seeds rather than dispersing them intact. As a result, some native plants may no longer be effectively dispersed, threatening their regeneration and long-term survival.

Researchers also found that species introductions typically outnumbered extinctions both in terms of species numbers (faunas average 44% introduced species versus 23% extinct) and in the number of islands impacted (92% versus 76%). This suggests that human activities, including accidental and deliberate introductions of animals, are adding to extinctions in driving widespread changes to island ecosystems.

�鶹��ý’s forests in danger

In �鶹��ý, native forests originally relied entirely on native birds to spread seeds of plants such as lama, hōʻawa and olopua. When introduced animals replace these natural dispersers, the regeneration of native forests can slow or stall, affecting not only biodiversity but also watershed health and cultural practices tied to native plants. The research underscores the importance of managing invasive species and protecting remaining native frugivores to maintain the islands’ unique ecosystems.

“Many studies focus on individual species or single islands, but this research shows that introductions can fundamentally alter ecological interactions on a global scale,” Drake said. “For �鶹��ý, these insights are vital: we need to control introduced animals, protect the remaining native frugivores and restore disrupted seed-dispersal networks to safeguard our forests and native plants.”

The University of �鶹��ý named Ivan Hartison as the 2025 recipient of the President’s Award for Excellence in Building and Grounds Maintenance.

Hartison was honored for his vital work at the Isabella Aiona Abbott Life Sciences Building at UH ����ԴDz�. He plays an important role in high-level research spaces, including BSL-2 labs and endangered species insectaries, where he helps ensure safety, sanitation and the protection of �鶹��ý’s natural resources.

Beyond his daily duties, Hartison is known for going above and beyond, whether helping students recover endangered Hawaiian flies, lending a hand with heavy lifting or stepping in to support colleagues.

Through his commitment to his job at UH ����ԴDz�, Hartison earned the respect from both peers and students, embodying the spirit of teamwork and service at the University of �鶹��ý.

Established in 1986, the President’s Award for Excellence in Building and Grounds Maintenance recognizes a UH system employee who exemplifies dedication and excellence in supporting campus facilities.

A new deep-sea coral species in the tropical western Pacific that resembles a highly recognizable character from Star Wars has been discovered and named by a team of researchers including an expert from the University of �鶹��ý.

The coral, named Iridogorgia chewbacca, is known for its long, flexible branches and shiny surface. The species earned its nickname because the coral’s “hairy” looking branches and upright, lone-standing appearance reminded researchers of Chewbacca, the furry character from the Star Wars films.

The species belongs to the genus Iridogorgia, a group of deep-sea corals with long, spiraling structures. The new coral was first seen in waters off Molokaʻi in 2006 and later near the Mariana Trench in 2016. The Molokaʻi specimen measured about 4 feet tall, while the Mariana Trench sample was about 20 inches. The branches are flexible and can grow up to 15 inches long.

Les Watling, professor emeritus in UH ��ā�ԴDz�’s and co-author of the , recognized the coral while reviewing research from colleagues in China. His earlier work in �鶹��ý waters and collaborations with NOAA expeditions helped confirm that it was a new species.

“Seeing this coral for the first time was unforgettable,” Watling said. “Its long, flexible branches and shape immediately reminded me of Chewbacca. Even after years of deep-sea work, discoveries like this still make me stop and take notice.”

The study used both physical characteristics and genetic analysis to describe I. chewbacca and another new species, Iridogorgia curva. It also documented other known species in the western Pacific. Researchers found the region has a high diversity of Iridogorgia, with 10 species recorded in tropical western Pacific waters.

Thousands working together

Each coral colony is made up of thousands of tiny polyps, which work together to form the larger structure. Despite its large size and striking appearance, I. chewbacca usually occurs alone, scattered across deep-sea rocky bottoms.

Watling’s work highlights UH’s contributions to deep-sea research and shows the value of international collaboration in discovering and documenting new marine species. The discovery adds to scientists’ understanding of the biodiversity hidden in the deep ocean and demonstrates that even long-studied regions like the Pacific still hold surprises.

The School of Life Sciences is housed in UH Mānoa’s .

Growing up in Chandler, Arizona, thousands of miles from the nearest coastline, University of �鶹��ý at Mānoa major and undergraduate student Landon Schumaker never imagined his future would take him to the farthest reaches of the deep sea. But this summer, Schumaker conducted research in Perth, Australia, with the support of the , a funding opportunity administered by the UH Mānoa (UROP) and the .

From June through August, Schumaker worked with the Minderoo-University of Western Australia Deep-Sea Research Centre to study the Nova Canton Trough, a hadal region more than 6,000 meters deep. This area had never been studied at such scale and depth until recently.

Schumaker said that last year scientists conducted an expedition to the Nova Canton Trough and deployed cameras to assess deep-sea biodiversity between 2,471 and 7,983 meters deep. He contributed to meticulous work on this footage, including taxonomic identifications, statistical analyses and visualizations.

“The deep sea fascinates me because it feels like an entirely different world,” Schumaker said. “It’s a world that is perceived to be so far away, yet in reality, is on our planet and right beneath our surface waters. There are vast knowledge gaps, and every expedition brings the possibility of discovering something new.”

Schumaker’s work was complemented by monthly virtual check-ins with his UH Mānoa mentor, Professor Jeff Drazen in the , who has guided him for more than a year.

“Landon was pretty familiar with the deep ocean when he departed for Australia, and he had already analyzed deep-sea videos. But in Australia he really dug into big datasets, and he dramatically increased his ability to use statistical modeling to explore research results,” Drazen said. “I’m really impressed that he analyzed the data and has a draft of a peer reviewed paper. This was a stellar opportunity for Landon and he really capitalized on it.”

Looking ahead, the results from the Nova Canton Trough study are expected to lead to at least two scientific publications, with Schumaker as a co-author, and potentially lead author. Long-term, he hopes to pursue a PhD in biological oceanography and dedicate his career to exploring and protecting the deep sea.

More on the Tyler Fellowship

“The Tyler Fellowship provided me with the financial support I needed to travel, live abroad for an extended period and gave me the opportunity to learn about so many different projects going on around the world,” Schumaker said. “This fellowship meant a lot to me, as it was something I put a lot of effort into between developing a proposal and a project plan, and then being entrusted with this award. Receiving it was both rewarding and humbling.”

• Related UH News story: New UROP fellowship supports international undergraduate research, creative work, March 11, 2025

Applications for the Tyler Fellowship for summer 2026 are expected to open in spring 2026.

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From tracking invasive marine species, to exploring vegetation recovery on degraded, uninhabited islands, to studying tiny beetles threatening mangroves, eight University of �鶹��ý at Mānoa undergraduates spent two months this summer in the Galápagos Islands. Funded by a grant from the National Science Foundation with additional support from UH Mānoa, and guided by research mentors from UH Mānoa and the Charles Darwin Foundation, the students conducted hands-on research on invasive species that connected them to ʻāina (land/sea), kānaka (people) and mālama ʻāina (stewardship).

The experience built on a preparatory spring course (NREM 491), where students learned the foundations of island invasion biology and developed their own research proposals.

Monitoring invasive species

Cienna Kahrobaie, a major, studied invasive marine species at boat docks around Puerto Ayora on Santa Cruz Island. Using settlement plates (small experimental surfaces for marine organisms to grow on) deployed for two months, she compared species richness, percent cover, and community composition at docks experiencing differential boat traffic, and learned valuable identification techniques from experts at the Charles Darwin Foundation and Smithsonian Tropical Research Institute in Panama.

“Settlement plates allow scientists to get a glimpse of what is growing in marine communities around boat docks, so if we employ them at sites with specific maritime traffic patterns, we can more quickly detect invasive species of concern,” Kahrobaie said. “This would allow conservationists to respond quicker to these marine invasions and prevent their establishment.”

While conducting research, she found a moment of discovery while resting in a tidepool. By staying still, she observed fish, hermit crabs and even an octopus up close, learning that sometimes slowing down revealed more than trying to see it all at once.

Studying connections between islands

Riley Herron, a major, conducted research on Santa Fé Island, a remote, uninhabited Galápagos island recovering from heavy feral goat degradation and resulting ecological damage. She studied how the island’s microtopography affects microclimates critical for woody plant seedling establishment, setting up large plots to measure environmental conditions and seedling presence for the island’s three dominant woody species. Through her research, Herron found connections between the Galápagos and �鶹��ý.

“I hope my research helps highlight the interconnectedness of our ecosystems,” Herron said. “There are so many large-scale processes that shape what happens on the micro level, and as our climate continues to change, understanding those small-scale interactions becomes more important than ever. As island ecosystems are isolated, limited in resources and filled with endemism, they are the first to be impacted, emphasizing how important island conservation is globally.”

Tiny threatening beetles

Lana Mitchell, a major, studied how an invasive mangrove bark beetle affects native red mangrove seedlings, testing whether fertilizer could offset beetle damage. The project challenged her to conduct independent research while navigating new skills, from kayaking to communicating in Spanish, all while deepening her passion for conservation.

“I hope that this can aid scientists in measuring how much of a difference in survival and growth a propagule (a young mangrove seedling) can undergo with and without beetle infestations,” Mitchell said. “This research could help to determine the overall survival of native species in exposure to invasives, giving scientists a window of time in which to provide native species with resources to better sustain their growth and longevity in island ecosystems.”

Mitchell was struck by how comfortable Galápagos wildlife are around humans, spotting sea lions resting just steps away during her research. According to Mitchell, the experiences reinforced the local community’s dedication to conservation and strengthened her connection to the islands’ unique ecosystems.

“This immersive summer research program in the Galápagos is a collaborative effort that provides applied research experiences in invasive species ecology to UH Mānoa undergraduate students from across campus,” said Creighton Litton, Department of Natural Resources and Environmental Management professor, (UROP) director, and one of the eight UH Mānoa faculty members who designed and implemented the program over the past three years. “The success of this program stems from committed research mentors from both UH Mānoa and the Charles Darwin Foundation, financial support from NSF and UH Mānoa and, most importantly, fully engaged students from our campus who commit to a full research experience, from learning the basics and developing proposals on campus in the spring, to field data collection, analysis and write-up in the summer.”

This opportunity is the result of a collaboration between UH Mānoa and the Charles Darwin Foundation, and is funded by the National Science Foundation–International Research Experiences for Students, the UH Mānoa Provost’s Office to align the overall program with the campus goal of becoming a Native Hawaiian Place of Learning and the UH Mānoa Office of the Vice Provost for Research and Scholarship.

The deadline to apply for the 2026 program is October 15. .

A new online resource aims to make learning about �鶹��ý’s rare and endangered native plants easier for students, teachers and the community—and the University of �鶹��ý is playing a key role.

, with support from UH ��ā�ԴDz�’s and other partners, has launched , a free website that gathers lesson plans, classroom activities, multimedia tools and student-friendly content in one place. The site is designed to help educators bring native plant conservation into classrooms and inspire future environmental stewards.

“Hua ʻIke makes it easier than ever for educators and students to connect with the incredible diversity of �鶹��ý’s native plants,” said Raedelle Van Fossen, education manager at UH ��ā�ԴDz�’s Lyon Arboretum, advisor for the Hua ʻIke project and member of the Laukahi Advisory Council. “By sharing this knowledge, we’re helping grow the next generation of conservation leaders.”

Hua ʻIke, meaning “seed or fruit of knowledge,” reflects the idea that knowledge, like a seed, can grow across generations. Visitors to the site can explore interactive materials, learn conservation stories and connect with a community of educators and learners.

Laukahi was formed in 2016 to implement the �鶹��ý Strategy for Plant Conservation, aligning statewide efforts to protect native species, nearly half of which are endangered. The organization’s mission is to unite conservation partners, expand awareness of �鶹��ý’s global biodiversity importance and prevent species extinction.

“Hua ʻIke came to life through the collective efforts of many—educators, conservationists, designers—all committed to supporting the next generation of stewards,” said Laukahi Network Coordinator Kimberly Shay. “Through Hua ʻIke, I feel optimistic for the future of �鶹��ý’s native plants as students discover the joy of connecting with them and caring for them.”

UH’s involvement includes faculty, staff and affiliates serving on Laukahi’s volunteer advisory council, contributing scientific expertise, educational outreach and project coordination. Lyon Arboretum’s participation ensures that botanical knowledge and cultural context remain central to the platform’s design.

Members of the Laukahi Advisory Council with UH ties:

• Mark Burgman, UH Mānoa, School of Life Sciences director
• Don Drake, Lyon Arboretum interim director
• Elliott Parsons, UH Pacific Regional Invasive Species and Climate Change Management Network specialist
• Raedelle Van Fossen, Lyon Arboretum education manager

Indigenous agroforests (food-producing agroecosystems where trees and crops grow together in forest-like environments) may offer valuable insights for addressing two of the world’s biggest challenges: declining biodiversity and rising non-communicable disease, according to research led by University of �鶹��ý at ����ԴDz� researchers. , the study found that agroforests with greater ecological diversity also offer a more nutritionally diverse food supply.

The team analyzed 48 Indigenous agroforests in Fiji using a trait-based framework. Focusing on specific plant characteristics important for ecological resilience, such as how their seeds are dispersed or how tall they grow, and traits important for human health and nutrition, such as carbohydrates, vitamin A or zinc, they measured the ecological and nutritional functional diversity in the agroforests. The findings showed that agroforests with a high diversity of traits important to ecological resilience—such as recovery after major weather disturbances—also support a wider range and depth of nutrients necessary to human health.

The results point to an important link between environmental management and nutritional resources. While much of modern agriculture focuses on high-yield, low-cost food production, this often comes at the expense of ecosystem health, nutritional diversity and downstream dietary quality. Agroforestry systems, by contrast, grow a variety of trees and plants in the same space, mimicking natural ecosystems and offering a greater diversity of edible and medicinal products.

“Fiji’s agroforests highlight the potential of biodiverse agroecosystems to contribute to climate-resilient and nutrition-sensitive agriculture,” said lead author Ashley McGuigan. “As we work to strengthen food systems that are rooted in place, responsive to climate change, and supportive of community health, this research underscores the importance of biodiversity, agroforestry, and local knowledge in food production.”

McGuigan is an extension specialist faculty member in UH ����ԴDz�’s at the (CTAHR) and a UH ����ԴDz� PhD graduate.

Supporting Indigenous knowledge and practices

The study also highlighted the importance of Indigenous knowledge and management practices. The agroforests in the study are stewarded by placed-based and multi-generational informed knowledge systems that are uniquely attuned to local social and ecological conditions, and have enabled resilience to varying levels and types of disasters and disturbances for millenia. Researchers said these knowledge systems and management practices are critical to support a transition towards food production systems that are not only more environmentally sound, but also nutritionally diverse and resilient to climate disruptions.

“Our findings support stronger investment in Indigenous and agroecological food production systems, both in the Pacific and globally,” McGuigan said. “We recommend working with practitioners to identify and record additional functions and traits, and use trait-based tools to help design food production systems that support ecological resilience and human nutrition. We urge policymakers to prioritize systems that reflect the interconnected nature of environmental and human health.”

The work was supported by the National Science Foundation, Fulbright Program and UH ����ԴDz�, among others. The other authors on the study include: Tamara Ticktin (UH ����ԴDz� School of Life Sciences), Rachel Novotny (UH ����ԴDz� CTAHR), Veniana Tikonavuli and Unaisi Vuli (The University of the South Pacific), and Abrania Marrero (Harvard University).

“Food production is a cornerstone of Fiji’s economy and community well-being,” Vuli said. “It provides essential food security and supports around 80% of rural livelihoods. Fiji is also increasingly reliant on imported goods, but supporting local food production helps strengthen resilience against climate and economic shocks.”

University of �鶹��ý at ����ԴDz� Professor Mark Hixon has been recognized among the . The list is based on lifetime scientific contributions in terms of number of publications, citations and other measures of achievement. Hixon has ranked in the top 20 every year since the list started in 2022.

Hixon, the Hsiao Endowed Professor of Marine Biology in the ’ , has studied �鶹��ý’s coral reefs since 1979, as well as many other locations worldwide. His research has included the effects of reef fishes on seaweeds, how the physical structure of the reef affects fish communities, what determines population sizes in reef fishes, the lionfish invasion in the Caribbean, how to restore coral reefs and more.

‘Rainforests of tropical seas’

“Coral reefs are the rainforests of tropical seas, providing innumerable benefits for humanity,” Hixon said. “�鶹��ý’s coral reefs are in peril, so the scientific community is busy trying to save what’s left before it’s too late.”

Hixon leads two current projects in �鶹��ý. First, the REEFrame project is funded by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration to build a permanent undersea coral nursery off Waikīkī Beach. Second, Fish Pono—Save Our Reefs is a public education campaign to ensure that all citizens understand the importance of promoting the recovery of populations of fishes that eat seaweeds, thereby allowing corals to thrive.

“Unfortunately, herbivorous parrotfishes or uhu, among other herbivores, are severely overfished around Oʻahu and some other locations,” Hixon said.

Other scientists in the top 20 list include 11 researchers from Australia, four from the U.S., three from the United Kingdom and one from New Zealand. ScholarGPS, an American company based in California, is a premier online source for the analysis of scholarly activity in academia.

World Turtle Day is May 23. University of �鶹��ý at ����ԴDz� Professor Robert Thomson is an expert on evolutionary and conservation biology, and much of his research focuses on the evolutionary history of turtles. Thomson shared his thoughts on World Turtle Day, and the challenges turtles are facing in �鶹��ý and around the world.

Why should turtles be celebrated?

It’s an opportunity to recognize an important component of biodiversity that often gets ignored. Something to know about turtles is that they’re both extraordinarily ancient—older than dinosaurs, they’re older than mammals, birds, almost any other vertebrate you’ll see on the Hawaiian landscape—and they’re extraordinarily endangered. Around 60% of species are threatened with extinction today.

Your previous research highlights that turtles face a “daunting future.” What are the biggest threats to their survival today?

There’s two major threats in particular and they’re threats that are shared by a lot of biodiversity today. One is loss of habitat. Turtles have a lot of their species richness on coastlines, in rivers and other aquatic habitats that humans tend to modify and degrade in important ways. Because of this, turtles are experiencing wholesale habitat loss at an enormous scale for the last century. The second thing that influences turtle conservation is collection—both for pet trade and the food trade, as well as traditional cultural uses.

Can you explain how climate change is affecting turtle populations, especially here in �鶹��ý?

As global sea levels rise, they’re losing nesting beaches, places where they lay their eggs. A recent example of that happened in 2018. In the Northwest Hawaiian Islands, there’s a particular islet in French Frigate Shoals called East Island, that was the nesting area for around 95% of all green sea turtles in �鶹��ý. It’s a huge amount of the population. A major storm came through and wiped that island off the map. It was gone. That led to a lot of concern that this is the sort of thing we expect to see as the climate continues to change and storms become more powerful and sea levels rise. The good news, at least in the short term, is the island is now reforming. Crews went out last year, and that island once again exists, and it has turtles nesting on it.

How hopeful are you that conservation efforts can help turtle populations in the future?

This is the big question in biodiversity conservation. The hope comes from the idea that this is no longer a scientific mystery. We know what is causing the declines, and in many cases we know how to fix them. We need to protect habitats. We need to restore habitats. We need to stop market trade. The question is whether there is societal and political will to deal with these problems that we already have solutions for, and will we do that quickly enough before these declines turn into extinctions.

Turtles have been around for millions of years. What can they teach us about resilience, survival or even vulnerability in today’s world?

This is a lineage that has existed for 200 million years. That’s a length of time that we truly can’t comprehend. Now, just in the last few centuries, we’re seeing dramatic extinctions and global endangerment. So it shows the impact that humans are having on natural environments and on biodiversity broadly. If this lineage that has been stable and resilient through hundreds of millions of years—through the mass extinction that killed the dinosaurs—is suddenly globally endangered, that speaks to the severity of the impacts that we are having on native ecosystems.

What can people do to help protect turtles and their habitats, both in �鶹��ý and globally?

You can use what tools you have available to you to support wildlife conservation, particularly habitat conservation. I think in the United States, there’s not many people participating in turtle markets anymore other than in the pet trade, so this issue sometimes gets ignored. But there is still significant commercial collection of turtles that, in turn, get shipped to market in other countries. Wild populations can not sustain this. Other than that, the biggest messages are the same messages as support for biodiversity conservation generally: protecting habitats, advocacy for sustainable systems and voting in ways that help save ecosystems.

A hands-on learning initiative designed to introduce �鶹��ý preschool keiki and their ʻohana (families) to STEAM (science, technology, engineering, agriculture and mathematics) concepts is expanding, thanks to funding from the University of �鶹��ý at ����ԴDz�’s (UROP).

The S.T.E.A.M. on the Bookshelf program, developed in collaboration with UH ����ԴDz�’s (CTAHR) Cooperative Extension faculty with initial funding from the Maui County Department of Agriculture, has already engaged over 200 ʻohana on Maui. Designed to support parent-child learning, the program provides preschoolers with themed books, interactive activities and family workbooks aimed at making STEAM curriculum accessible in a home-based setting.

“Parents state that their children love completing the learning activities and often request the books as bedtime stories,” UH ����ԴDz� Instructor Chad Junkermeier said. “We’ve heard from parents that were in the program that their children are now reading the books to younger siblings.”

Bringing learning home

The initiative builds on an idea first proposed nearly 15 years ago by Heather Greenwood, a UH CTAHR associate extension agent based on Maui. Recognizing that many Head Start ʻohana struggled to attend evening financial and nutrition training sessions, she helped develop a model where young children brought home books and activities covering these topics, effectively engaging parents through their children’s learning experiences. This project built on the initial model, enhancing it to incorporate more parent-child interaction and hands-on learning.

The initial age-appropriate physics and engineering curriculum was piloted with families and UH Maui College faculty and staff in 2021. With additional funding from the Maui County Department of Agriculture in 2023–24, the project expanded to include an agriculture and gardening curriculum, reaching 213 ʻohana across 15 preschool classrooms that school year.

Of the physics and engineering curriculum, one of the preschool parents stated, “They are learning advanced concepts in an easy to [understand] format.”

With support from UH ����ԴDz�’s Undergraduate Research Opportunities Program’s , two undergraduate students will work with the team to refine and expand the physics and engineering curriculum into three tracks: physics, astronomy and engineering. The funding, totaling $10,000, will allow the team to develop engaging learning activities tailored for young children.

As the program grows, efforts are also underway to incorporate new subject areas. UH ����ԴDz� Associate Professor Sladjana Prišić has joined the project to develop a microbiology curriculum, further broadening the educational scope of S.T.E.A.M. on the Bookshelf.

The program’s success is gaining academic recognition, with its first peer-reviewed manuscript recently accepted for publication in the Journal of Extension. The study highlights the effectiveness of the home-based model in fostering early STEAM learning and strengthening family engagement.

The Department of Physics and Astronomy and the School of Life Sciences are housed in UH ����ԴDz�’s .

Undergraduate students from the University of �鶹��ý at ����ԴDz� traveled to Washington, D.C., in March, as part of the (STR) program. Chloé Houy, Kayla Lum and Kristyn Miyamoto participated in months of research advocacy training, preparing them to effectively communicate the importance of undergraduate research to policymakers. They are mentored by Associate Professor Sladjana Prišić and work on research projects in the Prišić Lab.

Their training, which began in November 2024, included workshops on relationship building with legislators, writing policy briefs and crafting persuasive op-eds. The students’ efforts culminated in meetings with the offices of Sen. Mazie Hirono, Sen. Brian Schatz and Rep. Ed Case.

Drawing from their experiences conducting microbiology research in the Prišić Lab, the students highlighted how undergraduate research fosters scientific discovery and professional development. They emphasized the critical role of federal support from agencies such as the National Science Foundation and the National Institutes of Health in sustaining research opportunities that shape future scientists and medical professionals.

“Advocating for undergraduate research on Capitol Hill was an incredible experience that showed me how science and policy intersect to shape the future of research opportunities,” Lum said.

Prišić added, “Seeing my students confidently communicate the impact of their research to policymakers reinforced the importance of mentorship and the role of advocacy in advancing scientific discovery.”

Through the STR program, the students gained hands-on experience in research advocacy while refining their ability to communicate scientific concepts to a broad audience. Their participation not only amplified the value of student research at UH but also underscored the broader impact of continued investment in scientific exploration and education. Their research and trip were funded by the UH ����ԴDz� (UROP) and a grant from the National Science Foundation awarded to Prišić.

Expanding support for undergraduate research

Noah Perales-Estoesta, UROP program coordinator, also participated in the STR program. His goal was to explore how UROP can adapt programming similar to what is offered by STR for undergraduate students at UH ����ԴDz�.

“A major part of what UROP does is support the dissemination of student research and creative work, usually in the form of presentations and publications,” Perales-Estoesta said. “Especially in today’s university climate, I think we should be encouraging students to think more creatively about the broader impacts of their work and, from the administrative side, about how to provide them with the infrastructure to realize and articulate those impacts. STR provides a great model for this, and I look forward to exploring what similar efforts UROP can develop.”

Each year, UROP awards more than $500,000 in merit-based scholarships directly to students to support mentored undergraduate research and creative work projects and presentations. An additional $135,000 is awarded directly to mentors to support undergraduate research and creative work during the summer via the .

University of �鶹��ý at ����ԴDz�’s Professor Robert Thomson has been named the next editor-in-chief of , the leading journal in the field of systematics and one of the most impactful journals in evolutionary biology globally.

Under Thomson’s leadership, Systematic Biology will continue to serve as a premier platform for groundbreaking research and collaboration in evolutionary biology. The journal publishes new methods for inference of evolutionary history, understanding drivers of biodiversity, as well as the theory and practice of describing species. These research areas align with UH ����ԴDz�’s position as the only Carnegie Research 1 institution centered in a global biodiversity hotspot.

The journal relies on advanced computational and statistical tools, offering students training in cutting-edge areas such as big data analysis, machine learning and modeling complex processes—skills that are increasingly relevant in emerging sectors of the economy. As editor-elect starting in January 2025, Thomson oversees new submissions to the journal and collaborates with outgoing editor-in-chief, Isabel Sanmartín. Thomson’s full term as editor-in-chief will run from January 2026 to December 2028.

“I am honored to take on this role and happy to represent UH in advancing the field of evolutionary biology on a global scale,” Thomson said. “�鶹��ý’s incredible biodiversity underscores the importance of systematics, and I look forward to fostering research that deepens our understanding of life’s complexity while supporting conservation efforts here and beyond.”

More about systematic biology

Systematic biology explores biodiversity and the evolutionary ties between species. By tracing these relationships, it reveals life’s history, predicts species’ responses to change and informs conservation.

This field is vital in �鶹��ý, a biodiversity hotspot with species found nowhere else. From honeycreepers to coral reefs, �鶹��ý’s ecosystems showcase evolution in action. Systematic biology helps uncover species’ origins, understand ecosystem dynamics and guide conservation amid climate change and habitat loss.

More about Thomson

serves as chair of the Ecology, Evolution, and Conservation Biology graduate program. He is a research associate in the at the Natural History Museum of Los Angeles County and author of the book (University of California Press, 2016). He has published dozens of papers on systematics and conservation biology in journals such as Science, Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences, Molecular Biology and Evolution and Systematic Biology. This work has been recognized with multiple awards, including the UH Regent’s Medal for Excellence in Research and the UC Davis Merton Love Award for outstanding dissertation in evolution and ecology.

Building on its longstanding legacy of supporting University of �鶹��ý students and programs, the Cooke Foundation recently awarded a grant to a UH initiative that works to restore �鶹��ý’s surrounding coral reefs.

The “” program aims to stem the tide of coral degradation caused by coastal pollution and ocean warming by saving fishes that save corals. Founded by like-minded ocean lovers, scientists, water enthusiasts and fishermen, Fish Pono is a public education campaign with the vision of bringing awareness to the importance of replenishing herbivore fish populations to foster healthy coral reefs, which are often referred to as “the rainforests of the sea.”

Parrotfishes (uhu), surgeonfishes (kala) and other herbivorous fish remove seaweeds on reefs that would otherwise smother corals. Unfortunately, these living lawnmowers are overfished in many locations around �鶹��ý, according to Mark Hixon, professor and Hsiao Endowed Chair of Marine Biology in the .

The mixed-media messaging campaign includes its , television and radio public service announcements, and a presence at public meetings with the �鶹��ý Division of Aquatic Resources as it concerns these ecologically important fishes.

According to Fish Pono ambassador and UH ����ԴDz� alumnus Randy Kosaki of the NOAA Papahānaumokuākea Marine National Monument, scientists have found that parrotfishes and surgeonfishes are particularly overfished and are at less than 5% of their original herbivore fish population, especially around Oʻahu. Fish Pono wants to reverse this decline.

Describing herbivores as the lawnmowers of the sea, Fish Pono founders say these herbivores not only clean our reefs, allowing corals to flourish, but uhu also produce the sand that replenishes our beaches.

“Herbivores are literally the saviors of our reefs,” Hixon said.

The earned impressive recognition in the 2025 , released on January 22. Ten academic disciplines at UH ����ԴDz� achieved high rankings, including top 200 world status in education, arts and humanities, and physical sciences. These rankings are among the most recognized global assessments of academic and research excellence.

Among , four out of the 10 ranked UH ����ԴDz� subjects placed in the world’s top 1% (within top 250 in the world), while the others placed in the world’s top 2–4% (between top 251–1,000).

UH ����ԴDz� subjects’ world ranking:

• Education studies: No. 126–150
• Physical sciences: No. 126–150
• Arts and humanities: No. 176–200
• Life sciences: No. 201–250
• Social sciences: No. 251–300
• Psychology: No. 301–400
• Medical and health: No. 301–400
• Business and economics: No. 401–500
• Engineering: No. 501–600
• Computer science: No. 601–800

Times Higher Education considers the following factors for its rankings: teaching, research environment, research quality, industry income and international outlook. Regarded as one of the leading national and international university rankings focused on research and academic excellence, Times Higher Education considered between 654–1,488 of the top institutions for each of its subject rankings, out of more than 25,000 institutions worldwide, to be eligible for its World University Rankings by Subject.

Other rankings

UH ����ԴDz� also received these notable rankings:

• 2025 Times Higher Education World University Rankings, October 8, 2024
• U.S. News and World Report 2025 Best Colleges rankings, September 24, 2024
• Wall Street Journal/College Pulse 2025 Best Colleges in the U.S. rankings, September 10, 2024

For more information, .

A red alga first found by University of �鶹��ý at ����ԴDz� researchers smothering coral reefs in Papahānaumokuākea Marine National Monument (PMNM) has been detected for the first time by the team outside of the marine monument and more than 2,000 miles away.

The research team detected DNA matching Chondria tumulosa in Majuro Atoll in the Republic of the Marshall Islands in the east-central Pacific Ocean. Papahānaumokuākea is a chain of islands and atolls that extends approximately 1,200 miles northwest of the main Hawaiian Islands in the northern Pacific.

“Our discovery in Majuro suggests that C. tumulosa may be more widespread than we previously thought. This could have significant implications for coral reef ecosystems across the Pacific, potentially requiring broader monitoring efforts and a more comprehensive understanding of the alga’s distribution and ecological impact,” said UH ����ԴDz� graduate student Patrick Nichols.

A threat to coral reefs

First detected in 2016 and named in 2020 by UH researchers, C. tumulosa has earned a reputation for smothering coral reefs in PMNM, where it forms dense mats that blanket corals and other native organisms. Its mat-forming behavior, ability to spread rapidly, and unknown origin have posed significant challenges for reef conservation.

Until now, the alga had only been observed spreading throughout the three northwestern-most atolls of PMNM: first at Manawai (Pearl and Hermes), then Kuaihelani (Midway Atoll) and Hōlanikū (Kure Atoll). However, a new detection outside of �鶹��ý caught the researchers by surprise.

From eDNA to field confirmation

The discovery was made possible by the detection of the species’ DNA from water samples obtained earlier this year, emphasizing the pivotal role of environmental DNA (eDNA) as a front-line tool in the early detection of harmful nuisance species.

The discovery in Majuro was a two-step process that combined molecular surveillance with targeted fieldwork to detect a species that is otherwise extremely difficult to visually identify. The process began with the eDNA analysis, a bio-monitoring technique that screens water samples for the nuisance alga’s genetic “fingerprint.”

The genetic test for C. tumulosa eDNA was developed by UH researchers in partnership with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, and can detect the presence of target species across vast areas without the need for extensive in-water surveys.

Armed with this evidence, UH graduate students Patrick Nichols (School of Life Sciences), Keolohilani Lopes Jr. () and Jimmy Fumo (School of Life Sciences) traveled to Majuro in November 2024 to conduct an extensive survey, including the site of the initial positive eDNA detection. Using microscopy and additional genetic sampling, they were able to visually confirm the presence of C. tumulosa.

Comparing alga behavior

At Manawai in PMNM, C. tumulosa has been observed forming thick mats that suffocate coral reef communities, displacing native flora and fauna. In Majuro, however, the species was observed in much lower abundance, forming small patches at some sites. This growth pattern resembles where C. tumulosa grew cryptically and was difficult to identify.

“Even though we have now observed C. tumulosa outside of PMNM we can’t be sure of its native status,” Fumo said. “Its relatively low abundance in Majuro could mean it is either an emerging invader in the region or a long-established species being naturally controlled by herbivorous reef fishes or other ecological factors.”

Broader surveys underway

With other potential sightings throughout the region, researchers plan to extend their surveys beyond the Marshall Islands to better understand the alga’s distribution and ecological role. They hope to explore the historical connections between populations in �鶹��ý and elsewhere to determine if the species has recently spread across the north Pacific or has been established in the region for a longer period of time.

The team’s work in Majuro builds on years of collaboration between UH ����ԴDz� researchers and local stakeholders throughout the Hawaiian archipelago.

“While this discovery raises concerns about the spread of C. tumulosa, it also showcases the incredible potential of new technologies and collaboration,” Nichols said. “By working together on new tools, we can better understand and mitigate the risks posed by nuisance species.”

In response to recent discoveries of illegal releases from private marine aquariums across the state, the University of �鶹��ý and other organizations launched an awareness campaign, “,” aimed at stopping this unlawful behavior.

The campaign is spearheaded by Christy Martin, program manager of the (CGAPS), a project of the UH ����ԴDz� housed in the UH ����ԴDz� .

One instance of an aquarium release involved the illegal soft coral known as “pulse coral” or “pulsing xenia” (Unomia stolonifera). It has spread from what is believed to be the initial release site to now occupy a nearly 80-acre footprint near the mouth of Pearl Harbor.

Some marine aquarium releases are thought to be from hobbyists that were not aware of no-kill and rehoming alternatives, possible harm to the environment, or that the species released were illegal to import and possess.

The has also responded to several public reports of non-native or suspicious marine species of hard corals and anemones that appear to have been purposefully outplanted from illegal aquariums into nearshore environments by hobbyists, for later collection and sale on the black market. This is also illegal and poses multiple risks to the marine environment.

“During the past year, a similar marine aquarium species of soft coral native to the Red Sea was found spreading on reefs in Puerto Rico. With the global increase in marine aquarium ownership, and the U.S. being the largest consumer, we should expect to see an increase in releases,” Martin said.

UH student designs logo

Martin has served as a guest speaker for UH classes, highlighting current issues, needs and opportunities to participate. In fall 2023, she shared her description of the situation in Pearl Harbor with the (MOP) class and piqued the interest of Hannah Chang, a recent graduate of the Rhode Island School of Design, who is working on her second bachelor’s degree in marine biology. Chang created the logo for the new campaign.

“When I learned about the impacts that pulse coral is having in �鶹��ý, I wanted to find a way to help,” Chang said, whose experience includes scientific illustrations and whimsical character designs. “Working on this project helped me gain some real-world experience and I am happy with the responses to the new logo.”

Chang’s logo was officially introduced and launched at a media event on October 28 at the Waikīkī Aquarium. She hopes to continue to use her background in art and marine biology as a science communicator to raise awareness about marine biodiversity.

“Awareness campaigns are critically important, and Hannah’s contributions to this effort are deeply appreciated,” Martin said.

UH MOP Director Cindy Hunter added, “This is a great example of how the Marine Option Program provides opportunities for any UH student with ocean interests to engage in real-world experiences as they progress toward their career goals.”