Hawaii's State Fish: The Humuhumu

Of all the fish you might meet while snorkeling in Waikiki, one stands out, and not just for its colors. The humuhumunukunukuapua'a is Hawaii's official state fish, and its tongue-twisting name is almost as famous as the fish itself. Spotting one darting around the reef is a little thrill. Here is everything you need to know about this charming little local celebrity.

How Do You Even Say It?

Let us get the big question out of the way: it is pronounced "hoo-moo-hoo-moo-noo-koo-noo-koo-AH-poo-AH-ah." Do not worry if you cannot nail it on the first try, even locals usually shorten it to just "humuhumu." The full name is wonderfully descriptive. It roughly means "triggerfish with a snout like a pig," a nod to its pointed, pig-like face and the little grunting sound it can make.

How to Spot One

The humuhumu is small, usually under a foot long, but its bold markings make it easy to recognize. Look for a boxy body with a yellowish-tan top, a white belly, and striking black bands, blue lines, and a bright patch of color near its mouth and tail. It likes shallow, rocky reef areas, exactly the kind of spots you snorkel in Waikiki, so keep an eye near the coral and rubble.

A Fish With Personality

The humuhumu is fun to watch. It uses its rippling fins to hover and dart in quick bursts, and it is known for being a bit feisty, defending its little patch of reef from intruders. It has a clever trick too: when threatened, it wedges itself into a crack in the rock and locks a spine upright like a trigger, which is how triggerfish got their name. It can be tricky to pull out once it hunkers down.

Watch, Don't Touch

As with all reef life, admire the humuhumu from a respectful distance. Do not chase it or try to touch it, and never feed the fish, which can harm them and the reef. Float calmly and let it go about its business, and you will get to enjoy its antics without stressing it out.

Find Hawaii's Mascot on the Reef

Spotting the humuhumunukunukuapua'a is one of the little joys of snorkeling in Waikiki, and saying its name is half the fun. On a guided snorkel tour, the crew can point out the state fish along with turtles and all the other colorful reef residents. Come meet Hawaii's beloved little triggerfish for yourself.