Oahu Invasive Species Committee

When people hear "biocontrol," they often think of the mongoose in Hawaii or cane toads in Australia. But those introductions are not examples of modern classical biocontrol.

Classical biocontrol uses carefully tested, highly host-specific natural enemies to reduce invasive w**ds and pests. These agents may feed on a w**d's flowers, seeds, roots, leaves, or stems, helping native plants and ecosystems recover. Before any biocontrol agent is approved for release, it undergoes years of research and rigorous testing to ensure it targets only the intended w**d.

Biocontrol isn't releasing random species and hoping for the best. It's a science-based, regulated approach to managing invasive species.

**dManagement

Not all native plants need flowers to steal the show.

These textured leaves belong to ʻōhiʻa papa (Metrosideros rugosa), a native Hawaiian tree found only on O’ahu. This strong tree survives the wind-swept peaks in the Koʻolaus. Its fuzzy new leaves make it easy to appreciate even when it's not in bloom.

Coqui frogs are not widespread on Oʻahu and are currently limited to three known breeding populations: Pālolo, Waimānalo, and Kuliʻouʻou.

In Waimānalo, dedicated volunteers spend evenings searching vegetation, listening for coqui calls, and helping prevent frogs from spreading to new areas.

If you hear a coqui frog calling on Oʻahu, report it right away. Take a video recording of the call and submit it through 643pest.org.

Want to help? Join a volunteer night and be part of the effort to protect Oʻahu from invasive species. Beginner-friendly volunteer nights are held on the second and third Thursdays of each month. Sign up at dlnr.ivolunteer.com/ #3

Sometimes the best tool for fighting invasive species is another species.

When mile-a-minute w**d (Persicaria perfoliata) began smothering forests and native plants across the eastern U.S., scientists spent years testing a tiny weevil that feeds on the invasive vine. Since its release, the weevil (Rhinoncomimus latipes) has helped reduce the w**d's impacts and become an important part of long-term management.

Biocontrol isn't a quick fix, but when carefully researched and implemented, it can provide lasting benefits for ecosystems.

Learn more: https://ibiocontrol.org/classical-w**d-biocontrol/success-stories/