Barnacle-Covered Boat Found off Oahu Could Be Tsunami Debris

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A 24-foot boat recovered on Sunday from the Punaluu shoreline on the east side of Oahu could be debris from the Japanese tsunami, according to the Department of Land and Natural Resources. 

Green mussels, which are native to Japan and considered an invasive species in Hawaii, were found on the boat.

The boat was also covered with gooseneck barnacles and several types of crabs, which are not considered invasive species. The species are typical of open ocean organisms that have been found on other confirmed tsunami debris items. 

The boat was found by a Punaluu family, who flipped it over and carried it back to their home.

From DLNR: 

Since registration numbers are clearly visible, DLNR will work with NOAA and the Japan Consulate in Hawaii to identify an owner in Japan. If the owner does not want it, the Hawaii family may then put in a salvage claim. 

…

To report findings of possible tsunami marine debris, please call DLNR at (808) 587-0400 or send an email to dlnr.marine.debris@hawaii.gov and disasterdebris@noaa.gov. 

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