Looks can be deceiving. Even though coral reefs are hard as rock, the tiny live creatures called polyps which build the reefs are very fragile. Just by walking on them or by brushing against them we can kill whole colonies of live coral. If you're in the water at our beaches, protect the reef by staying off the coral.

You can help protect the reef when you're at home, at work or enjoying the outdoors, too. The coral reefs of the world are very sensitive to climatic changes and pollution. Dispose of toxic household wastes properly. Don't let detergents from car washing or any other pollutants go into our storm drains. The underground drains empty into our waterways and eventually end up in the ocean. Detergents can cause rapid growth of algae which can blanket and kill live coral.

More about Hawai`i's aquatic resources
More hints on keeping Hawai`i wild
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