DECODING ANCESTRAL KNOWLEDGE

Enter the captivating world of scientific exploration through the lens of Kiana Frank who is a proud Native Hawaiian and microbiologist. Her unique journey intertwines traditional wisdom with the latest molecular techniques, casting light on the intricate interactions between microorganisms and the environment they inhabit. It is within the ancient oral narrative of Meheanu, a revered goddess, that Kiana finds a clue about nitrogen cycling in fish ponds—a pivotal ecological process orchestrating the relationship between microorganisms, plants, and fish. Kiana''s groundbreaking research takes an unexpected twist as she unveils a hidden gem concealed within this age-old tale: the revelation that the hau plant''s color serves as a dependable indicator of nitrogen levels. This revelation holds profound implications for the management of Hawaiian fish ponds, providing a fresh perspective on the preservation and nurturing of these ecosystems. By embracing her Native Hawaiian heritage and its oral traditions, Kiana broadens our concepts of who is a scientist and how science unfolds. Her work stands as a testament to the wealth of indigenous knowledge in understanding the natural world.