Deep Seven facts for kids
Deep Seven or Deep 7 refers to seven special types of deep-water fish. These fish are very important for the culture, businesses, and fun activities in the Hawaiian Islands and near Johnston Atoll.
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Deep Seven: Hawaii's Special Fish
The "Deep Seven" are a group of fish that live in the deep waters around Hawaii. They are super important to the people who live there. People catch them for food, for fun, and because they are part of Hawaiian traditions.
Meet the Deep Seven
Here are the seven types of fish that make up the Deep Seven. Each one has a local name, a Hawaiian name, a common English name, and a scientific name.
| Local Name | Hawaiian language Name | Common Name | Scientific Name |
|---|---|---|---|
| ehu | ʻulaʻula | squirrelfish snapper | Etelis carbunculus |
| gindai | ʻukikiki | flower or Brigham's snapper | Pristipomoides zonatus |
| hapuʻu | hapuʻu or hapuʻupu'u | Hawaiian grouper, black grouper, or sea bass | Epinephelus quernus |
| kalekale | kalekale | Von Siebold's snapper | Pristipomoides sieboldii |
| lehi | lehi | silverjaw or ironjaw snapper | Aphareus rutilans |
| onaga | ʻulaʻula koaʻe | scarlet, red, or longtail snapper | Etelis coruscans |
| ʻopakapaka | ʻopakapaka | pink snapper | Pristipomoides filamentosus |
Why Are These Fish Important?
The Deep Seven fish are important for a few big reasons:
- Food: Many people in Hawaii enjoy eating these fish. They are a popular choice in restaurants and at home.
- Fishing: Both commercial fishermen (who sell their catch) and recreational fishermen (who fish for fun) love to catch these species.
- Culture: These fish have been part of Hawaiian life and traditions for a very long time.
Where Do They Live?
These fish live in the deep parts of the ocean. They are found around the beautiful Hawaiian Islands and also near Johnston Atoll. This means they live in waters that are much deeper than where you might swim or snorkel.
Protecting the Deep Seven
Because these fish are so important, people work to make sure they stay healthy and plentiful. This helps keep the ocean balanced and ensures there are enough fish for future generations.
You can learn more about other fish in the area by checking out the List of fish of Hawaii.
