The seas near Hawaii's shores are hugely important for the islands' economy, food security and culture.
But they're considered to be seriously depleted.
A lack of data has hindered its sustainability, but a University of Hawai'i study has shed light on this hidden economy, tracing the flow of fish from catch to consumption to get a better idea of the fish harvest.
One of the researchers Kirsten Oleson ol sun says fish from Hawai'i's shores provide nearly eight million meals a year and contribute up to 16 million dollars to the state's economy annually.
She told Sally Round the research throws up a range of conservation ideas.
Diving on the reef at Hanauma Bay Nature Preserve, Hawaii Photo: RNZ / Philippa Tolley
