Traditions of the Pacific
Traditions of the Pacific is an ongoing educational program that explores the natural and cultural history of Hawai‘i and the Pacific through dynamic lectures, workshops, fieldtrips, and films. This year, our programs take the theme “Culture & Change.” Everyone is welcome to attend, and Bishop Museum members receive special postcard mailings and free/discounted tuition for these events. Not a member? Join us today!
Lecture: Limu - The State of our Ocean Plants
Thursday, January 26, 2012
6:00 p.m. – 7:30 p.m. | Atherton Halau
Tuition: $10 General Public; Members are free
The importance of limu (edible algae) in Hawaiian culture, historical and present-day, has been well-documented throughout history and flourishes in local dishes and cuisine. From freshwater and saltwater varieties, as well as, limu harvested from the loko i‘a (fishpond), it serves as a popular seasoning and vital source of minerals.
Join UH professor and botanist, Dr. Celia Smith, for a discussion on the historical importance of Hawaiian native limu varieties, changes in reef health that have lead to a decline of Hawaiian limu, and the negative impacts of invasive species. Results from coastal restorations offer hope for the future. Dr. Smith is a professor of Botany at the University of Hawaii Manoa. She received her PhD from Stanford in 1983. Dr. Smith was a student, friend, and protégée of Bishop Museum’s own limu expert, the late Dr. Isabella Abbott.
Remember the historic limu beds of Onuela! The State Board of Land and Natural Resources just approved Haseko's application to significantly increase concentrated storm water runoff into this important cultural resource area, without regard for the significance of this area to local limu gatherers.
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