The CHamorus often made their fishing nets out of the vascular bundles of fibers from Lo’u, a common seagrass. This seagrass is frequently called turtle grass or eel grass in English, lo’u in CHamoru, and the scientific name is Enhalus acoroides.
CHamoru Seagrass Fishing Nets Read Post »
What is a coral? Corals are small invertebrate animals that create the foundation of an ecosystem that supports thousands of other organisms, including humans. Corals are in a group of organisms called Cnidarians, and are closely related to jellyfish, anemones, and hydroids.
Coral Reefs: Essential Ecosystems on Guam Read Post »
Sea cucumbers are important. Of the many marine organisms populating Guam’s waters, sea cucumbers (balate’), shown in Figure 1, remain important and unique creatures that provide a crucial cleaning service to the ocean. Many islanders may reminisce of a time when they played with balate’ with their friends and family on the beach.
Guam’s coral reefs and their decline. Coral reefs are among the most productive ecosystems on the planet. They contribute greatly to cultural identity, education and tourism, and support millions of people as major food sources.
Restoring Guam’s Coral Reefs Read Post »
Large animals that are well-known and beloved by the general public are typically referred to as “Charismatic Megafauna.” The term is most commonly used by conservationists to describe animals whose widespread appeal makes them useful for increasing environmental awareness and support.
Sharks, Rays, Whales, and Dolphins of Guam Read Post »
Classification, appearance and local distribution. Pilot whales are in the dolphin family (Delphinidae), which is part of the oceanic dolphins. The name “pilot” was came from the thought that one whale piloted the group. They are widely distributed and are currently recognized as two types: short-finned and long-finned. Although there is some evidence that the short-finned type may be two or more species, they are still classified as one type. The long-finned pilot whales are usually found in colder temperate conditions, while the short-finned live in warm tropical waters.
Tuninos: Dolphins and Their Cousins in Guam Waters Read Post »
Whales are mammals. Cetacea is an order of marine mammals that includes both whales and dolphins. They are clearly identified by their streamlined bodies and fins, which make them very fast and agile swimmers. Some species are able to reach speeds up to 35 mph. They are best known for their dramatic leaps or “breaching” out of the water.
Bayena: Whales in Guam Waters Read Post »
Large diverse family of fish. Sharks or halu’u in CHamoru, and rays or hafula’ in CHamoru, belong to a family of fish referred to as Elasmobranchs. It is a very diverse group of fish that includes approximately 1,000 species. They are found in all of the world’s oceans and in many types of marine environments, from shallow sandy banks to 5,000 ft. deep in the open ocean. Elasmobranchs are characterized by having a skeleton comprised of cartilage (like human ears) instead of bone.
Hafula’ yan Halu’u: Rays and Sharks in Guam Waters Read Post »
Importance of coral reefs to Guam. Coral reefs are important to Guam for many reasons, but the primary reason is the protection of the island. Reefs help to protect the beaches that draw in local residents and tourists. They are a natural coastline protection against storm surges, coastal erosion, and high waves, especially during tsunamis, tropical storms, and typhoons. Coral reefs form a barrier that buffers coastal areas from severe weather events, protecting human lives, economic activities, and coastal properties.
Tourism’s Effect on Guam Reefs Read Post »
A well known coral reef ecosystem. Apra Harbor is one of the most well-known coral reef ecosystems found in Guam. The Harbor is adjacent to Guam’s US Navy base on the West coast of the island. During World War II, it was mainly used as a coal and petroleum fueling station, as well as a repair station for Japanese warships and submarines. During World War II, Guam was recaptured by the US from the Japanese and Apra Harbor has since been used by the US Navy to service and refuel ships.
Coral Reefs in Apra Harbor Read Post »
