KANE'OHE — An Oceanic Institute study aims to give the depleted population of 'omilu a chance to thrive again.

The research center yesterday released about 1,000 'omilu, or Bluefin Trevally, into waters off Kane'ohe Yacht Club as part of a five-year study to restore coastal fisheries. The fish has been popular among recreational fishers.

Results of the study, funded through a $2.5 million grant from the National Marine Fishery Service, could lead to replenishment of other fish stock in the Islands, said David Zeimann, chief scientist for the Hawaiian Stock Management Program at Oceanic Institute.

"We expect that this will have a beneficial impact not just to this depleted fishery but it has potential application for other species as well," Zeimann said.

A total of 3,000 juvenile 'omilu will be released for the study. Each fish will have two tags — an internal one and an external one. The institute is using red and orange external tags. Institute officials are asking fishers who catch the 'omilu to call them at 259-3160 to provide information about catches.

Researchers are studying genetics, feeding analysis, maturation analysis, habitat and survival rates tied to the 'omilu. Before a large-scale release can get under way, Zeimann said, "We need to know the appropriate size to release into the wild."

He added, "We're also doing studies to improve survival by acclimating them to the wild."

Half of the fish released yesterday were placed in a net pen at the yacht club where they will undergo a few days of acclimatizing to the waters. The other fish were set free in the bay.

The institute is working with the state Division of Aquatic Resources, which will use the information in its fish management efforts.

Reach Eloise Aguiar at eaguiar@honoluluadvertiser.com.