HI SCR101

Requests the Department of Land and Natural Resources (DLNR) to study the efficacy of prohibiting commercial collection of Hawaii's endemic marine ornamental fish, with exceptions for propagation, educational, medical, or scientific purposes.

Cites evidence that 103 fish species are collected in Hawaii, with 45% of the top 20 collected species being endemic, and that over 50% of ornamental fish die within a week of captivity.

Documents significant population declines in unregulated areas: 58% decline in achilles' tang, 54% in longnose butterflyfish, 47% in yellow tang, and 46% in moorish idol.

Notes that 80% of collected fish are herbivores like yellow tang that control algae; their overcollection increases algae overgrowth and coral degradation.

Contrasts the economic impact: reef tourism generates $1 billion annually for Hawaii's economy compared to $1-2 million annually from the aquarium trade.

Requires DLNR to submit findings, recommendations, and any proposed legislation to the Legislature no later than 20 days before the 2012 Regular Session convenes.