Invasive Species in Hawaii

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In summary: All of the geckos. In all Pacific islands they are thought to have been brought by humans. Possibly even deliberately given humans' mutually beneficial and even affectionate relation with them. They reproduce asexually and the whole Pacific population is supposed to be one clone. Nevertheless they differentiate into visibly different 'species' according to environment. So an interesting case for evolutionary study - I only have here a few incidental information sources I could find in a few minutes, bit a serious biological theme for anyone interested to follow up.
  • #1
cjackson
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What flora and fauna currently in the islands didn't exist there before being introduced by man over the eons? What did the islands look like before humans first set foot on them? Basically, how different were they as compared with themselves today? Was ancient Hawaii even covered in vegetation or just barren?
 
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cjackson said:
What flora and fauna currently in the islands didn't exist there before being introduced by man over the eons? What did the islands look like before humans first set foot on them? Basically, how different were they as compared with themselves today? Was ancient Hawaii even covered in vegetation or just barren?

It's a volcanic island so yes it was barren rock for a long time. It likely appeared to the first Polynesian settlers as it does today. That was only some 1500 years ago. The big island of Hawaii is the youngest and still a long 300,000 years old.

Here is a list of invasive species
http://www.hawaiiinvasivespecies.org/pests/ [Broken]
 
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  • #3
  • #4
All of the geckos. In all Pacific islands they are thought to have been brought by humans. Possibly even deliberately given humans' mutually beneficial and even affectionate relation with them. They reproduce asexually and the whole Pacific population is supposed to be one clone. Nevertheless they differentiate into visibly different 'species' according to environment. So an interesting case for evolutionary study - I only have here a few incidental information sources I could find in a few minutes, bit a serious biological theme for anyone interested to follow up.

In Hawaii they are now being competed by a much more recent arrival, the sexually reproducing and showy Gold Dust Day Gecko.

http://www.hawaiibusiness.com/Hawaii-Business/October-2013/Did-You-Know-All-of-Hawaiis-Eight-Geckos-Species-are-Non-Native/ [Broken]
http://legacy.earlham.edu/~biol/hawaii/reptiles.htm
http://legacy.earlham.edu/~biol/hawaii/reptiles.htm
http://geckoweb.org/hemidactylus-garnotii.html [Broken]
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Gold_dust_day_gecko
 
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  • #5


The introduction of invasive species to Hawaii has had a significant impact on the islands' flora and fauna. Some of the most notable invasive species in Hawaii include the mongoose, feral pigs, and various plant species such as the strawberry guava and Australian tree fern.

Before humans first set foot on the islands, Hawaii was a pristine and isolated ecosystem with a unique array of plants and animals. The islands were mostly covered in dense forests and were home to a diverse range of endemic species, meaning they were found nowhere else in the world.

However, with the arrival of humans, the islands were forever changed. The introduction of invasive species, either intentionally or unintentionally, has led to the decline and extinction of many native species. The mongoose, for example, was brought to Hawaii in the late 1800s to control rats in sugar cane fields. However, they also preyed on native birds and their eggs, leading to the decline of many bird species.

In addition to the direct impact on native species, invasive species also alter the natural balance of the ecosystem. They can outcompete native plants for resources, disrupt pollination and seed dispersal, and alter soil composition. This can have cascading effects on the entire ecosystem, leading to further declines in native species.

Ancient Hawaii was likely covered in vegetation, with forests dominating the landscape. The islands were also home to a variety of wetlands, including taro fields and fishponds. The arrival of humans brought about changes to the landscape, with the clearing of land for agriculture and the introduction of non-native plants.

In conclusion, the introduction of invasive species to Hawaii has had a significant impact on the islands' flora and fauna. The islands were once a unique and isolated ecosystem, but with the arrival of humans and the introduction of invasive species, they have undergone significant changes. It is essential to continue efforts to control and eradicate invasive species to protect the remaining native species and restore the islands' natural balance.
 

What are invasive species?

Invasive species are non-native organisms that enter a new environment and cause harm to the native species and their habitats.

Why is Hawaii particularly susceptible to invasive species?

Hawaii's isolation and unique biodiversity make it vulnerable to invasive species. Many plants and animals have no natural predators or competitors in Hawaii, allowing them to thrive and outcompete native species.

What are the major impacts of invasive species in Hawaii?

Invasive species can disrupt entire ecosystems, leading to the decline or extinction of native species. They can also cause economic damage, such as damaging crops and infrastructure, and impacting tourism and recreation.

How do invasive species spread in Hawaii?

Invasive species can be introduced to Hawaii through various means, including accidental transport by humans, intentional introduction for agricultural or ornamental purposes, and natural dispersal by wind or water.

What is being done to address invasive species in Hawaii?

The state of Hawaii has implemented various measures to prevent the introduction of invasive species, such as strict regulations on the importation of plants and animals. There are also ongoing efforts to control and eradicate existing invasive species, as well as education and outreach programs to raise awareness about the issue.

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