#alien pest species

The recent finding of a dead coconut rhinoceros beetle on Maui has prompted calls for vigilance among contractors and landowners to prevent the accidental spread of invasive species. This appeal comes at a time when the urgent need to address impacts from the Maui fires may increase the introduction of infested materials from off island.

“Wiliwili is a keystone species in our dry forests, and nearly every part of this special tree is used by cultural practitioners. The impact of losing this species would have been profound.” — Chipper Wichman, President of the National Tropical Botanical Garden