HONOLULU (KHON2) -- Aquarium dumping is one way non-native and invasive species enter Hawaiiʻs waters and a new campaign is aimed at educating the public about the issue and preventing the practice.
Invasive species are wreaking havoc on Hawaiiʻs ecosystems and preventing their introduction and spread is the aim of the "Donʻt let it loose" campaign.
Not only is it cruel to release your pet into the wild but itʻs also damaging to Hawaiiʻs ecosystem.
Because of Hawaiiʻs isolation, we have unique and amazing species but that makes them vulnerable to invasive species.
However, itʻs not only fish and marine species that are let loose, any pet that is released into the wild can become invasive, fighting native species for resources.
Anyone possessing illegal animals could be charged with a class C felony and subject to fines up to $200,000 and three years in prison. If you see anything suspicious, report it to the Pest Hotline at (808) 643-PEST.
To learn more, visit the Waikiki Aquariumʻs new exhibit on invasive species.