The University of Hawai'i announced yesterday that it will give three patents for genetically enhanced, crossbred taro plants to Native Hawaiians.

Discussions were under way within the Hawaiian community to determine the appropriate entity to receive the patents, UH officials said.

Hawaiian activists, farmers and students have held protests demanding that the university give up the patents and stop genetically altering taro, which many Hawaiians consider a sacred plant.

"The University of Hawai'i has a strong desire to maintain appropriate respect and sensitivity to the indigenous Hawaiian host culture," said Gary K. Ostrander, UH-Manoa vice chancellor for research.

"Taro is unique to the Hawaiian people in that it represents the embodiment of their sacred ancestor. As such, it is appropriate to make an exception to our standard policy of holding all patents."