The Pacific Ocean harbors an incredible range of aquatic habitats and unique species; many of these are important sources of food and are under increasing pressure from fisheries and habitat degradation. Several of the species found in the Pacific Ocean have a localized distribution, and so are especially prone to threats from environmental degradation or overfishing. In order to preserve these resources for future generations, conservation of both fish populations and their aquatic habitat is vital.

The Marine Protected Areas and Conservation gallery includes Waikīkī Aquarium’s only freshwater exhibits. Many of Hawaii’s fresh water animals are threatened by altered habitats and invasive species. Our exhibits highlight Hawaii’s endemic freshwater stream gobies and shrimps, and show the effects of introduced species on these sensitive ecosystems and habitats.