438 



THE AMEBIC AX NATURALIST [Vol.LII 



The gorgeous colors of many of our reef fishes are very 

 evanescent, and undergo rapid deterioration when the 

 fish is taken from the water. Hence the coloration of 

 those offered for sale in the markets often conveys but 

 little idea of their living hues. Preserved specimens and 

 printed descriptions are of even less value. 



In concluding this condensed sketch of the Hawaiian 

 reefs, the writer desires to emphasize his impression of 

 the struggle for life which goes on there unceasingly. 

 The reef is a region of intense competition. It is com- 

 parable in many of its ecologic relations to the montane 

 rain-forest. The excessive illumination of the reef is 

 perhaps as constraining an influence as is the excessive 

 humidity of the rain-forest. The diversity of organisms 

 which inhabit the reef is far greater than that of any other 

 island habitat. The competition for food is keen and 

 unremittent. 



The reef as a food supply for human beings has been 

 a dominant factor in the lives of the primitive Poly- 

 nesians. Through the experiences of thousands of years 

 they have acquired a very intimate knowledge of the reef 

 and its life, but this has never been given adequate scien- 

 tific investigation. One of the great forward steps in the 

 economic history of the world will be the scientific utiliza- 

 tion of coral reefs and their products. 



Triggerfishes Balistes, BaUstapus, Stephanolepis. 



Puffers Te traodon, Canthigaster. 



