Invasive aliens!! Sounds like something from a sci-fi plot! But in fact, invasive aliens – the imported plants, animals, and microorganisms that become destructive to their new home – are a serious ecological threat to our Islands. The Legislative Act that created the Hawaii Invasive Species Council states, "The legislature finds that the silent invasion of Hawaii by insects, disease-bearing organisms, snakes, weeds, and other pests is the single greatest threat to Hawaii's economy and natural environment and to the health and lifestyle of Hawaii's people. Invasive species already cause millions of dollars in crop losses, the extinction of native species, the destruction of native forests, and the spread of disease.”
Plants, animals, and marine life
Some plants that were intentionally imported to Hawaii for the purpose of landscape, agriculture, or forestry have escaped cultivation and have taken over the habitat of native species. Rats, mongoose, and feral cats jeopardize indigenous forests, and proliferating coqui frogs threaten residential areas and whole ecosystems. Invasive aquatic species, especially algae, are one of the greatest threats to the waters and coral reefs of Hawaii, endangering public health as well as the delicate balance of native marine life. The Hawaii Invasive Species Council has identified coqui frogs, miconia, little fire ants, mongoose, brown tree snakes, alien algae, feral cats, and fountain grass as destructive species of the highest concern.
What you can do:
- Don't pack a pest. Always declare all plants, seeds, soil, sand, and animals when entering the State of Hawaii.
- Don't plant a pest. When buying plants, request ‘safe’ varieties or screen them yourself with the Hawaii Weed Risk Assessment at www.hear.org/wra
- Buy local. Fungi, insects, and agricultural diseases can be carried by imported produce. Buying local crops will protect our local agriculture and farmers.
- Keep it clean. Clean your shoes, tires, and water-related gear after each outing.
- Volunteer. To join efforts against invasive species call the Oahu Invasive Species Committee (286-4616), DLNR (587-0307), or Alien Algae Cleanup (779-2616).
- Report sightings. Report any invasive or unknown animals, insects, plants and fish to the statewide pest hotline at 643-PEST (643-7378).
- Learn more. Visit dlnr.hawaii.gov/hisc/ for information about the Hawaii Invasive Species Council and its efforts.