Hawaii State Fish Humuhumunukunukuapua’a Pronunciation

The humuhumunukunukuāpuaʻa (pronounced hoo-moo-hoo-moo-noo-koo-noo-koo-ah-poo-ah-ah) holds the prestigious title of Hawaii’s state fish, capturing the imagination of visitors and locals alike. This reef triggerfish with its melodic, lengthy Hawaiian name has become one of the most searched-for pronunciation challenges among those interested in Hawaiian culture and marine life.

Whether you’re planning a trip to Hawaii, are a marine enthusiast, or simply curious about this iconic fish with the famously long name, In this article, will help you master its pronunciation and understand its cultural significance.

Why Is the Humuhumunukunukuāpuaʻa So Famous?

The humuhumunukunukuāpuaʻa has achieved legendary status for several compelling reasons:

Its extraordinary name stands as one of the longest in the animal kingdom, making it a fascinating linguistic challenge

Its designation as Hawaii’s official state fish since 1990 (though it temporarily lost this status between 1990-2006 before being permanently reinstated)

Its frequent mentions in popular culture, including the song “My Little Grass Shack” and various films set in Hawaii

Its striking appearance with vibrant colors and distinctive rectangular markings

What Is the Humuhumunukunukuāpuaʻa?

The humuhumunukunukuāpuaʻa, also known as the reef triggerfish or rectangular triggerfish, is a colorful marine fish endemic to the coral reefs of the Indo-Pacific. In Hawaii, it has become an iconic symbol of the islands’ rich biodiversity and cultural heritage.

Scientific Name and Classification

Scientific Name: Rhinecanthus rectangulus

Family: Balistidae (triggerfish)

Order: Tetraodontiformes

Class: Actinopterygii (ray-finned fishes)

Distribution: Found throughout the Indo-Pacific region, particularly around the Hawaiian Islands

Physical Description and Unique Features

The humuhumunukunukuāpuaʻa typically grows to about 8-10 inches (20-25 cm) in length and displays a striking color pattern. Its body features a bluish-green top half with a yellow-orange lower half, separated by a black diagonal stripe. A distinctive black triangle adorns its upper body, while its face has blue and yellow stripes with a small mouth resembling a pig’s snout—a feature that inspired part of its Hawaiian name.

One of its most remarkable adaptations is the “trigger” spine on its dorsal fin. When threatened, this fish can wedge itself into coral crevices and lock this spine in an upright position, making it extremely difficult for predators to extract it from its hiding place.

Cultural and Symbolic Importance in Hawaii

Beyond its biological significance, the humuhumunukunukuāpuaʻa embodies Hawaii’s connection to the ocean. As the official state fish, it appears in educational materials, artwork, and cultural displays throughout the islands. Its presence in Hawaiian culture extends beyond mere symbolism—it represents the islands’ commitment to preserving both natural heritage and traditional knowledge.

The Meaning Behind the Name

The lengthy name of Hawaii’s state fish is not merely decorative but deeply descriptive of the animal itself, showcasing the observational precision embedded in the Hawaiian language.

Literal Translation and Etymology

“Humuhumunukunukuāpuaʻa” translates literally to “triggerfish with a snout like a pig.” This descriptive name perfectly captures the fish’s distinctive facial features, particularly its small, protruding mouth that resembles a pig’s snout. Hawaiian naming traditions often incorporate physical characteristics and behaviors, and this name exemplifies that practice.

Word-by-Word Breakdown: “humuhumu-nukunuku-āpuaʻa”

Humuhumu: The base name for triggerfish in Hawaiian

Nukunuku: Refers to the “snout” or “nose” (reduplicated for emphasis)

Āpuaʻa: Means “pig” or “pig-like”

The okina (ʻ) in āpuaʻa is a glottal stop, similar to the catch in your throat when saying “uh-oh”

The macron (ā) indicates a prolonged vowel sound

How to Pronounce “Humuhumunukunukuāpuaʻa”

Mastering the pronunciation of humuhumunukunukuāpuaʻa is easier when broken down into syllables and approached methodically.

Step-by-Step Phonetic Guide (with Syllable Breakdown)

hoo-moo: The first “humuhumu” portion is pronounced “hoo-moo-hoo-moo”

noo-koo: The “nukunuku” section is pronounced “noo-koo-noo-koo”

ah-poo: The “āpua” part is pronounced with a longer first “a” sound as “ah-poo-ah”

ah: The final syllable following the glottal stop (ʻ)

When combined: hoo-moo-hoo-moo-noo-koo-noo-koo-ah-poo-ah-ah

Take it slowly, syllable by syllable, gradually increasing your speed as you become comfortable with each section.

IPA (International Phonetic Alphabet) Representation

For those familiar with linguistic notation, the IPA representation is: /ˌhumuˌhumuˌnukuˌnukuˈwaːpuaʔa/

This scientific phonetic notation precisely represents the sounds for linguistic accuracy.

How do you say humuhumunukunukuapua a pronunciation: (Source Julien Miquel)

Common Pronunciation Mistakes and How to Avoid Them

Rushing through syllables: Take your time with each syllable; the name is meant to be rhythmic

Missing the okina (ʻ): The glottal stop before the final “a” is essential; it’s a distinct pause

Incorrect vowel lengths: The macron over the “ā” indicates a longer vowel sound

Improper emphasis: Place slight emphasis on the “āpu” portion

Pronouncing “u” as in “up”: Hawaiian “u” sounds more like “oo” in “moon”

Today, the humuhumunukunukuāpuaʻa serves as more than just a state symbol—it represents Hawaiian cultural resilience and the islands’ unique biodiversity. Its presence on souvenirs, in artwork, and in marine conservation campaigns highlights its role as an ambassador for Hawaii’s natural heritage. For many Hawaiians, the fish embodies the connection between land, language, and sea that defines island identity.