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As a species found worldwide, the green turtle has many local names. In the Hawaiian language it is called honu, [22][23] and it is locally known as a symbol of good luck and longevity. [24] Green sea turtle swimming over the sand plateau at playa Grandi, Curaçao.
Learn about the honu, a sacred and endangered species in Hawaiian waters. Find out about its habitat, diet, life cycle, threats, and conservation efforts.
12 sie 2021 · Once sought for their meat, Hawaiian green sea turtles, or honu, suffered a sharp population decline from overharvest in the early 20th century. Today, honu in Hawaiʻi are making a comeback thanks to the support of dedicated community members, and state and federal protections.
How do green sea turtles (known in the Hawaiian language as honu, scientific name chelonia mydas) get their name? From what they eat, or their diet! Adult green sea turtles are completely herbivorous, or vegetarian.
Hawaiʻi is the home to five species of sea turtles. Olive ridleys, loggerheads and leatherbacks are usually only encountered in deep offshore waters, and hawksbills are so few in number (<100 nesting females exist in the Main Hawaiian Islands) that they are rarely seen by most people.
There are two varieties of sea turtles commonly seen off of Hawaii beaches. The Green Sea Turtle or Honu is listed as a “threatened” species, and the Honu'ea (or Hawaiian hawksbill turtle) which is considered an endangered species under the endangered species act.
The gentle, lumbering Pacific Green Sea Turtle makes its home in Hawaiian waters. These huge, endangered creatures, which can grow to 4 feet and weigh up to 400 pounds, feed on seaweed called limu that grows on the rocks in shallow areas.
