Multiple sources report that Hawaii Department of Agriculture and Biosecurity officials discovered five dead coconut rhinoceros beetles in detection traps in Waikapu during early June. The invasive beetles pose a threat to palm trees and local agriculture, prompting ongoing surveillance efforts and calls for public vigilance.
- Three dead female coconut rhinoceros beetles were found in two traps on June 4, confirmed by state taxonomist
- Two additional dead beetles were collected from separate traps on June 8
- Traps had been checked on May 15 with no beetles detected at that time
- No live adult beetles or larvae have been found on Maui since a dead beetle was detected at Kahului Airport in April
- Officials conducted area surveys on June 5 searching for potential breeding sites like green waste piles and compost
- Coconut rhinoceros beetles damage palm trees by boring into them to feed, threatening local food security
- Residents are urged to check palm trees for damage and report findings to pest hotline at 808-643-PEST
Sources
- KITV: Three coconut rhinoceros beetles found dead in traps in Waikapu
- Bigislandnow: Residents urged to stay alert after invasive coconut rhinoceros beetles detected on Maui
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