The ʻŪʻū (Myripristis amaena), commonly known as the Menpachi, Brick Soldierfish, or ‘ū‘ū in Hawaiian, is a striking reef fish easily identified by its pale red to pink coloration with darker red scale margins. Its large eyes, characteristic of nocturnal feeders, and a dark streak behind the operculum distinguish it. These fish typically grow up to almost a foot and are found in groups hiding in caves and under ledges during the day, emerging at night to feed on zooplankton and small crustaceans.
In Hawai‘i, the ‘ū‘ū is a valued food fish, appreciated for its rich, oily flesh and is commonly caught in small-scale and subsistence fisheries. While there isn't extensive documented specific cultural significance beyond its use as a food source, the presence of such fish in traditional Hawaiian diets speaks to their role in sustaining island communities. As part of the vibrant reef ecosystem, the ‘ū‘ū also plays an ecological role as both predator and prey, contributing a balanced marine environment.
- David Shepard
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