HI HB819

Designates limu kala (Sargassum echinocarpum) as the official limu of the State of Hawaii.

Establishes that limu kala is a Hawaiian endemic water plant with four species growing in Hawaii waters (S. echinocarpum, S. hawaiiensis, S. obtusifolium, and S. polyphyllum).

Recognizes limu kala's ecological importance as a critical component of reef ecosystems, primary food source for herbivorous fish, and key habitat indicator for nearshore marine health.

Acknowledges limu kala's cultural and traditional significance to Native Hawaiians, including use as traditional fish bait, in conflict resolution (ho'oponopono), in ocean voyager protection, and as a source of nutrition and traditional medicine.

Takes effect upon approval.