Habitats, the natural environment in which a plant or animal species population thrives, are of particular importance to be aware of and protect. From the microscopic organisms coexisting with a cluster of Brigham’s coral (that in turn help create an entire reef propagating the ocean food chain and protecting shorelines) to the Haleakala silversword (feeding pollinators in the cold, harsh environment up to over 10,000 feet in elevation) every stone, grain of sand and drop of water plays its part in creating our habitat.

In the Pacific Basin, environments change from island to island, forcing plants and animals to evolve and adapt to their surroundings or relocate for survival. Although separated by varying distances, island habitats are effected by species migration via ocean currents, wind, birds, natural phenomena and human interference. Habitat devastation can sometimes be reversed through restoration, if allowed to rebuild without further incursion.

It is important to educate individuals, communities and governing authorities on the state of the Pacific's special ecosystems, in order to preserve the diversity of habitats that support all life.

Learn more about Hawaii's special habitats: Offshore Islets, Wetlands