Long before Western contact, nearly 1,000 years ago, the people of Hawaii created a system by which to supply themselves with a constant source of fresh fish. Ancient Hawaiian fishponds were typically a flat, shallow area of reef protected by a low lava rock wall built offshore, which allowed water and small fish to enter the pond: the fish would then grow and become too large to exit the pond. Many fish thrived in the brackish water of these fishponds and would breed, providing a constant and easy food source for the people of Hawaii. This unique and advanced aquaculture is found nowhere else in the world. The islands were once full of fishponds that have long since deteriorated, but this historic fishpond is still intact — and just as picturesque as ever.

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Have you ever visited the Huilua Fishpond before? Did you remember to take your camera? If so, join our Hawaii Nature Lovers Facebook group and share your shots of the fishpond — and anywhere else in Hawaii you love!

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