It was created to locate, identify, and evaluate all native and non-native fauna and flora within the state, and to maintain the reference collections of that biota for a wide range of uses.

In coordination with related activities in other federal, state, and private agencies, the HBS gathers, analyzes, and disseminates biological information necessary for the wise stewardship of Hawaii’s rich natural heritage.

The HBS conducts a coordinated inventory and monitoring program[2] in assessing the overall status and trends in the abundance, health, and distribution of plants and animals, as well as the ecosystems upon which they depend.

In inventorying the biota of the state, there are approximately 17,000 terrestrial, 500 freshwater, and 5,500 marine species of plants and animals in Hawaii.

This information is used to assist natural resource agencies in the proper management of Hawaii’s rich biota.