Finding the breeding sites of the coconut rhinoceros beetle (Oryctes rhinoceros)

Date
2022-05
Authors
Wong-Miyasato, Alec T
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Kaneshiro, Mahealani
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Miura, Tomoaki
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Abstract
The Coconut Rhinoceros Beetle (CRB) threatens Hawaii because it feeds on the coconut palm which is a culturally and economically important plant species. Unfortunately, CRB detections on Oahu continue to increase despite a concentrated eradication effort. This further threatens Oahu’s coconut palms and other culturally, environmentally, and/or economically important plant species such as Colocasia esculenta, Pandanus tectorius, and Pritchardia spp. Controlling the spread of CRB on Oahu is important because it will protect areas where CRB has not yet been established. This includes the neighboring Hawaiian Islands and the contiguous United States where the establishment of CRB is estimated to cause millions ($) in damages. Locating breeding sites is prioritized because it prevents future infestation and population growth. This project had three objectives: I) To locate the potential breeding sites of CRB, II) to derive a risk map that delineates possible areas of CRB intensification, and III) to summarize the methods used to produce the risk maps for practical use. Using a geographic information system (GIS), a FISHNET, a net of rectangular cells, suggests that breeding sites were more likely to occur in areas with higher proportions of damaged trees and a higher number of trees. Heat maps were developed to pinpoint the locations of potential breeding sites based on the proximity between damaged trees and the nearest known breeding sites and the number of trap catches. Knowing the likely locations of CRB breeding sites will allow the CRB Response to more easily manage existing populations, especially in areas that have known but unlocatable breeding sites. By focusing on where CRB reproduces, the goal of eradication will be one step closer to realization.
Description
Keywords
Oryctes rhinoceros, GIS, Coconut palm--Diseases and pests, Hawaii--Oahu, Introduced insects, Insect pests, Insect pests--Control, ArcGIS
Citation
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37 pages
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Hawaii--Oahu
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Table of Contents
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Wong-Miyasato, Alec T
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