Moloka'i Invasive Species Crew Intensifies Efforts Against Coconut Rhinoceros Beetle Threat
The Moloka'i invasive species crew, led by Lori Buchanan, is ramping up efforts to combat the Coconut rhinoceros beetle (CRB) threat after the first detections of the beetle on the island. The beetles, which are highly destructive to palms and other plants, were found in traps near Kaunakakai Wharf and 10 miles to the west. The crew has been monitoring for CRB since 2014, following its initial detection in Hawai'i on O'ahu in 2013. With over 40 traps already in place, the team is now installing more than 30 new traps to enhance early detection capabilities. The crew is working overtime to identify potential breeding sites and prevent the beetle's spread. The recent detections follow a state ban on importing potential CRB host materials to Moloka'i, highlighting the urgency of the situation. 
