Microsoft Word - AP National Reports Final

GISP

Global Invasive Species Programme

United States Government

Invasive Alien Species

in the Austral-Pacific Region

National Reports

Directory of Resources

Edited by Clare Shine, Jamie K. Reaser, and Alexis T. Gutierrez

The report is a product of a workshop entitled, Prevention and Management of Invasive Alien Species: Forging

Cooperation throughout the Austral Pacific. The meeting was held by the Global Invasive Species Programme

(GISP) in Honolulu, Hawai'i on 15-17 October 2002. It was sponsored by the U.S. Agency for International

Development, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service on behalf of the Aquatic Nuisance Species Task Force, U.S.

Department of the Interior - Office of Insular Affairs, U.S. Department of State, and The Nature Conservancy. In-

kind assistance was provided by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. Administrative and logistical

assistance was provided by the Bishop Museum, Scientific Committee on Problems of the Environment, and the

National Fish and Wildlife Foundation. The Smithsonian Institution National Museum of Natural History

provided support during report production.

The workshop was co-chaired by Drs. Allen Allison and William Brown (Bishop Museum), Mr. Michael Buck

(State of Hawai'i, Division of Forestry & Wildlife), and Dr. Jamie K. Reaser (Global Invasive Species

Programme; GISP). The members of the Steering Committee included: Dr. Maj de Poorter (ISSG), Ms. Liz Dovey

(SPREP), Dr. Lucius Eldredge (Bishop Museum), Ms. Alexis Gutierrez (GISP), Dr. Laura Meyerson

(GISP/USEPA), Dr. Jamie K. Reaser (GISP), Dr. Dana Roth (U.S. Department of State), and Dr. Greg Sherley

(New Zealand Department of Conservation).

The report of the workshop has been published by GISP (see address below) as: Shine, C., J.K. Reaser, and A.T.

Gutierrez. (eds.). 2003. Prevention and Management of IAS: Proceedings of a Workshop on Forging Cooperation

throughout the Austral-Pacific. Global Invasive Species Programme, Cape Town, South Africa.

The views expressed in this publication are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the positions of any

government or other body represented in the meeting, nor its sponsors.

Published by: The Global Invasive Species Programme

Reproduction of this publication for education or other non-commercial purposes is authorized

without prior written permission from the copyright holder provided the source is fully

acknowledged. Reproduction for resale or other commercial purposes is prohibited without prior

written permission of the copyright holder.

Citation: Shine, C., J.K. Reaser, and A.T. Gutierrez. (eds.). 2003. Invasive alien species in the Austral

Pacific Region: National Reports & Directory of Resources. Global Invasive Species

Programme, Cape Town, South Africa.

Contact: Global Invasive Species Programme

National Botanical Institute

Kirstenbosch Gardens

Private Bag X7

Claremont 7735, Cape Town

South Africa

Tel: +27 21 799 8800

Fax: +27 21 797 1561

[email protected]

www.gisp.org

Preface

This report is one of three products of a workshop entitled, Prevention and Management of Invasive

Alien Species: Forging Cooperation throughout the Austral Pacific. The meeting was held by the

Global Invasive Species Programme (GISP) in Honolulu, Hawai'i on 15-17 October 2002. The other

products include a regional statement on IAS and a workshop report (also downloadable from

www.gisp.org

). This document is the first country-driven effort to assess the status of invasive alien

species (IAS) and share information on IAS national programs in the Austral Pacific region.

Each country that participated in the regional workshop was invited to submit a chapter that included

information on known IAS, existing strategies for preventing and managing IAS, objectives and contact

information for departments/ ministeries concerned with IAS, priorities for future work on IAS, list of

in-country IAS experts, and a list of relevant references and websites.

Participants were asked to provide information relevant to both agriculture and environmental sectors

and to work across multiple ministeries when possible. The ability of each country to provide this

information varied considerably and depended upon the amount of information already available IAS

problems for their country, existence of within country technical expertise, and how high a priority the

IAS issue is for the government at this time. A few delegations were not able to make contributions to

this document, and are in the process of assessing the status of IAS in their countries.

The data provided within this document reflects the most up-to-date information available to the authors

of each country report at the time of writing. These authors and the GISP make no claim that this

information is complete or scientifically accurate (e.g. scientific names may not always have been

correctly assigned to non-native species). However, the authors and editors have made every effort to

ensure as useful and reliable a document as possible.

GISP hopes that this document will be seen as a foundation for future work on IAS within the Austral

Pacific region. Readers who are able to provide additional information or updates to specific chapters

are strongly encouraged to contact the authors as well as GISP. This report is also downloadable from

www.gisp.org

and, if new information warrants, will be updated as appropriate.

Reports arising from GISP’s workshops in other regions of the world are also available at

www.gisp.org

The Austral-Pacific Region

The Austral-Pacific region has numerous characteristics that make information sharing and other

aspects of regional coordination on invasive alien species (IAS) issues particularly important. For

example, 98% of its 30 million km

is ocean; the remaining 2% contains 7500 islands, of which just 500

are inhabited. Many islands in the three subregions - Polynesia, Micronesia and Melanesia - are small

and widely scattered. Whereas the ocean once provided a natural barrier against the spread of pests and

diseases, the rapid expansion of trade, travel, and transport now make the region particularly vulnerable

to the devastating impacts of IAS. Furthermore, Pacific islands share trading routes, partnerships, and

regional infrastructure, which can increase opportunities for introduction of IAS. The inhabitants of the

Austral-Pacific region, therefore, have a mutual interest in preventing and managing IAS at the point of

export and import.

Map of the Austral Pacific region

Credit: Courtesy of Perry-Castañeda Library Map Collection, University of Texas at Austin

National Reports & Directory of Resources on IAS

Contents

Preface 3

The Austral Pacific region and map 4

Contents 5

Australia – no report submitted 6

American Samoa 7

Cook Islands 11

Fiji – no report submitted 21

French Polynesia 22

Guam 35

Hawai'i 46

Marshall Islands 51

Micronesia, Federated States of 61

Nauru 62

New Zealand 63

Niue 77

Northern Mariana Islands, Commonwealth of the 84

Palau, Republic of 102

Samoa – no report submitted 165

Solomon Islands 166

Tokelau 170

Tonga, Kingdom of 175

Tuvalu – no report submitted 178

Vanuatu

179

Australia

No report has been submitted.

The delegate to the GISP Austral-Pacific Workshop was:

Mr. Warren Geeves

Introduced Marine Pest Program

Marine and International Section

Marine and Water Division

Environment Australia

Tel: 61 2 6274 1453

Fax: 61 2 6274 1006

Email:

[email protected]

American Samoa

Mr. Manu Tuionoula

Department of Agriculture

P.O. Box 6997, Pago Pago,

American Samoa 96799

Tel: 684-699-5731

Fax: 684-699-4031

E-mail:

[email protected]

Introduction

American Samoa is a group of oceanic islands, which lie about 3,680 km southwest of Hawai’i and

about 2,560 km from the northern tip of New Zealand. It is situated along 14 degrees latitude south of

the equator. Its immediate neighbor is Samoa (formerly known as Western Samoa), an independent

state 128 km to the west. The total land area of American Samoa is about 200 square kilometers, which

is shared by five main islands, namely Tutuila, Tau, Ofu, Olosega, and Aunuu. The climate is tropical

humid, with an annual rainfall ranging from 3,175 mm at sea level to more than 7,000 mm on the

highest mountain, Lata on Tau island.

1. Main IAS in American Samoa

American Samoa has numerous alien species, some of which were introduced into the territory many

decades ago for various purposes, including food, biological control, medicine, ornamental purposes,

and conservation. Other alien species were either smuggled in, or unintentionally introduced through

trade.

Like other Pacific Island countries and territories (PICTS), American Samoa is vulnerable to the effects

and changes caused by invasive alien species (IAS). After habitat destruction or modification, whether

by natural disaster or by man, IAS seem to be more prolific and may have caused the reduction or even

extinction of other species. Some of these species have threatened to destroy American Samoa’s

biological heritage and have adversely affected agricultural production and natural ecosystems, leading

to economic and ecological losses.

A list of American Samoa’s most harmful invasive or pest species with economic or ecological impacts

includes:

⇒

Fungi

- Taro leaf blight (Phytophthora colocaisae), which wiped out the taro industry of both Samoas

in 1993-1994

- Black leaf streak of banana (Mycosphaerella fijiensis)

⇒

Insects

- Cluster caterpillar (Spodoptera litura) (Lepidoptera) (Noctuidae)

- Cotton aphid (Aphis gossypii) (Hemiptera) (Aphididae)

- Rhinoceros beetle (Oryctes rhinoceros) (Coleoptera) (Scarabaeidae)

- Fruit piercing moth (Othreis fullonia) (Lepidoptera) (Noctuidae)

- Diamond back moth (Plutella xylostella) (Lepidoptera) (Yponomeutidae)

⇒

Snails

- African snail (Achantina fulica) (Achantinidae)

⇒ Birds

- Common myna bird (Acridotheres tristris)

- Jungle myna bird (Acridotheres fuscus)

- Red vented bulbul (Pycnonotus cafer).

These three species are believed to cause population reduction of some local bird species, as well as

damage to some fruit trees and vegetables.

⇒

Plants

- Sedge (Cyperus rotundus) (Cyperaceae)

- Grass (Paspalum conjugatum) (Poaceae)

- Koster’s curse (Clidemia hirta) (Melastomataceae)

- Molucca albizia (Paraserianthes falcataria) (Fabaceae)

- Broad leaf vine (Merremia peltata) (Convolvulaceae): This has prohibited the re-growth of

some local tree species which were devastated by the two great hurricanes of 1990 and 1991.

2. Summary of existing strategies and programs on IAS

American Samoa established a National Task Force on IAS in 2003. The first and most important step

involved an agreement between the directors of the Department of Agriculture and the Department of

Marine and Wildlife Resources to create such a joint force. This proposal was submitted to the governor

and received formal approval early in 2003.

Routine programs for dealing with all alien species (known and potential invasives as well as non-

invasives) entering the territory are still carried out by the Quarantine Division of the Department of

Agriculture, in cooperation with other government departments (see 3 below).

In the National Park of American Samoa, an invasive plant management programme has been

established (see 4 below).

3. Government departments/agencies concerned with IAS

Primary responsibility for dealing with all alien species (both invasive and non-invasive) entering the

territory lies with the Quarantine Division of the Department of Agriculture. Quarantine officers are at

the frontline in controlling all ports of entry and work closely with the Plant Protection Division and

Veterinary Service to evaluate which species should be allowed into the country, prior to issuing

permits. Marine and wildlife matters are referred by quarantine officers to the Department of Marine

and Wildlife Resources whenever there is a relevant interception.

The Office of Samoan Affairs may also be involved in IAS prevention and management issues.

Specific responsibilities for IAS prevention, management and/or control are as follows:

⇒

Department of Agriculture

Quarantine Division: carries out border inspection to ensure that species entering the country are

permitted by law.

Plant Protection Division: advises the Quarantine Division on plant species that should be allowed

into the country, and monitors and controls invasive plant species in residential areas, farm lands,

and forests.

Veterinary Service: advises the Quarantine Division on animals and animal products that should be

permitted into the country, and monitors and controls invasive animal pests present in the country.

Contact Information

Director,

Department of Agriculture,

American Samoa Government,

Pago Pago, American Samoa 96799

Tel: (684) 699 1497

(684) 699 9272

Fax: (684) 699 4031

Email: [email protected]

⇒

Department of Marine and Wildlife Resources

Marine Division: monitors and manages all marine resources, including IAS, and enforces marine

harvesting legislation.

Wildlife Division: monitors and manages wildlife in the forest and enforces wildlife legislation.

Contact Information

Director,

Department of Marine and Wild Life Resources,

American Samoa Government,

Pago Pago, American Samoa 96799

Tel: (684) 633 4456

Fax: (684) 633 5944

Email: [email protected]

⇒

Office of the National Park of American Samoa

This Office is responsible for the management and control of all species in the park area. Its mission

is to preserve Samoan culture, save and protect mixed species old growth forest and protect

ecosystems, including the coral reefs and marine components of the Park. An invasive species

programme has been established. This involves students and the community in addressing invasive

plant problems and reviving traditional cultural practices and language relevant to native heritage

plants and their uses.

Contact Information

Superintendent,

National Park of American Samoa,

Pago-Pago, American Samoa 96799

Tel: (684) 633 7082

Fax: (684) 633 7085

4. Priorities identified for future work

⇒

Preventing the entry of IAS and of alien species with the potential to become invasive.

⇒

Thorough assessment of alien species already present on the islands as part of the development of a

national strategy.

⇒

Public awareness and educational programmes.

⇒

Where possible, eradication of IAS.

5. List of experts working in the field of biological invasions

No information provided.

6. Bibliographic references

Gerlach, W. 1988. Plant diseases of Western Samoa. Samoan German Crop Protection Project, Apia,

Western Samoa.

Pacific Island Ecosystems at Risk (PIER). Report on invasive plant species in American Samoa. CD-

Rom available from Pacific Island Ecosystems at Risk (http://www.hear.org/pier/index.html

)

South Pacific Regional Environment Programme (SPREP). 2000. Invasive species in the Pacific: A

technical review and draft regional strategy. South Pacific Regional Environment Programme,

Samoa.

Tuionoula, M. and T. Uele. 1993. Report on taro leaf blight in American Samoa. Department of

Agriculture, American Samoa Government.

Waterhouse, D.F. and K.R. Norris. 1987. Biological control: Pacific prospects. Inkata Press Pty Ltd.

Melbourne, Australia.

Cook Islands

Mr. Poona Samuel

Chief Quarantine Officer

Ministry of Agriculture

P.O. Box 96, Rarotonga, Cook Islands

Tel: 682 28711, Fax: 682 21881

E-mail:

[email protected]

and

Ms. Tania Temata

Senior Environment Officer

Environment Service

Government of the Cook Islands

P.O. Box 371, Rarotonga, Cook Islands

Tel: 682-21256, Fax: 682-22256

E-mail:

[email protected]

1. Main invasive alien species in the Cook Islands

Invasive alien species (IAS) include giant mimosa (Mimosa invisa), coconut flat moth (Agonoxena

pyrogramma), Queensland fruit fly (Bactrocera tryoni), and orchid weevil (Orchidophilus aterrimus).

2. Summary of existing strategy and programs on IAS

The Ministry of Agriculture is currently implementing the following programmes to manage or

eradicate incursions of the following pests:

Pest/IAS

Method

giant mimosa

(Mimosa invisa)

This serious plant invasive was introduced in the 1960s. Biological

control is being used to control the plant.

coconut flat moth

(Agonoxena pyrogramma)

Biological control is being used, as well as internal quarantine to prevent

introduction to other islands

Lantana (Lantana camara)

Biological control agents are being introduced to the other islands.

Queensland fruit fly

(Bactrocera tryoni)

The first incursion occurred in the capital, Rarotonga, in late 2001.

Emergency procedures were initiated to eradicate the incursion with

male trapping, spot spraying of food lures and host destruction in the

incursion zone. The shipment of fruits and vegetables to other islands in

the country was prohibited without a quarantine certificate.

The Ministry of Agriculture has a fruit fly surveillance programme to

detect fruit fly incursions, using male attractants, cue lure and methyl

eugenol. No fruit flies have been trapped since February 2002.

orchid weevil

(Orchidophilus aterrimus)

Some plants have been destroyed on the infested property to try to

eradicate the pest.

The National Biodiversity Strategy and Action Plan (NBSAP) for the Cook Islands identifies Invasive

Species Management as its second theme and sets two major goals: to reduce the adverse impacts of

IAS on indigenous species and ecosystems and to prevent new invasions. The NBSAP was completed

as part of the national assessment for the World Summit on Sustainable Development process and is

now being widely promoted within government agencies (see 3 and 4 below on legislative aspects).

3. Government departments/agencies concerned with IAS

At the current time, only the Ministry of Agriculture has direct responsibilities for invasives/pests for

economic reasons under the Plants Act 1973 and Animals Act 1975. The Ministry of Health has

responsibility for preventing the introduction of mosquitoes and human diseases.

However, the following government agencies could also contribute to the prevention and control of

invasives/pests:

⇒

Environment Service;

⇒

Cook Islands Natural Heritage Project; and

⇒

Island Governments of Aitutaki, Atiu, Mauke, Mangaia, Mitiaro, Palmerston, Pukapuka, Penrhyn,

Rakahanga and Manihiki.

4. Priorities identified for future work

4.1 Agriculture and internal quarantine

In 1998, the Ministry of Agriculture’s functions in all outer islands were devolved to the local

governments of those islands. Some of those island governments did not consider agriculture and

internal quarantine important and did not provide enough resources for those activities. During the

financial year 2002-2003, the Government of the Cook Islands reversed the 1998 decision. The

Ministry of Agriculture is now allocating resources for those activities, although funding is limited.

The introduction of the coconut flat moth (Agonoxena pyrogramma) in 1999/2000 caused serious

concern in the community because of the visible damage on coconuts and the negative impact this

might have on the tourism industry. The Ministry of Agriculture, with the assistance of the Secretariat

of the Pacific Community, has introduced biological control agents to control this pest in Rarotonga,

Atiu, and Aitutaki.

4.2 Greater coverage and awareness outside the agricultural sector

Initiatives for control, management, and eradication of IAS are much more developed for pests that

affect the agriculture development sector. More effort is required to study and manage the impact of

invasive species on the natural and native biodiversity of the Cook Islands. Following the completion of

the study by Space and Flynn (see 6 below), priority should be given to mapping the distribution of

IAS, particularly for the island of Rarotonga. Also important is the need to raise awareness of IAS and

the likely pathways for their incursions. Pictorial and/or photographic materials need to be obtained for

the awareness campaign. Very little is known about marine IAS.

4.3 Legislation

The Ministry of Agriculture is currently reviewing the Plants Act 1974 and Animals Act 1975.

Recommendations by a consultant funded by the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) of the

United Nations included the abolition of some provisions of these laws, which currently prohibit the

introduction of certain plants and animals that are known IAS or pests. One of the co-authors of this

report does not agree with the consultant.

The Environment Service administers the Rarotonga Environment Act 1994-95 which only applies to

the island of Rarotonga. A National Environment Bill is due to be adopted before the end of 2003. The

Bill’s objective is to manage the environment of the Cook Islands in a sustainable manner: it contains a

provision to manage and control the introduction of IAS, including the requirement for an environment

impact assessment (IAS) for any activity that might have an adverse impact on the environment.

5. List of experts working in the field of biological invasions

⇒

Ministry of Agriculture

Government of the Cook Islands

P.O. Box 96, Rarotonga

Cook Islands

Dr. Maja Poeschko, Entomologist

Mr. William Wigmore, Director of Research

Mr. Ngatoko Ngatoko, Chief Quarantine Officer

⇒

Cook Islands Natural Heritage Project

Mr. Gerald McComack, Director

⇒

Ministry of Health

Ms Ngapoko Short, Director of Public Health

Mr. Tuaine Teokotai, Chief Public Health Inspector

⇒

Environment Service

Government of the Cook Islands

P.O. Box 371, Rarotonga

Cook Islands

Joseph Brider, Compliance and Biodiversity Officer

6. Bibliographic references

Extracted from Cook Islands Pest Lists Database, Plant Protection Service, Secretariat of the

Pacific Community

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reports (a1-a8), Secretariat of the Pacific Community (SPC) Suva, Fiji.

Allwood, A.J. and L. Leblanc. 1997. Losses caused by fruit flies Tephritidae) in seven Pacific Island

countries and territories (Diptera: pp. 208-211 in: Allwood, A.J. and R.A.I. Drew. Management

of Fruit Flies in the Pacific. ACIAR Proceedings No 76. 267 pp.

Anon. 1961. Heliothrips haemorrhoidalis (Bouche). CAB International Institute of Entomology.

Distribution maps of pests. Series A. Map 135.

Anon. 1971. Rhabdoscelus obscurus, CAB International Institute of Entomology. Distribution maps of

pests. Series A. Map 280.

Anon. 1981. Hellula undalIslands, CAB International Institute of Entomology. Distribution maps of

pests. Series A. Map 427.

Anon. 1993. Cosmopolites sordidus, CAB International Institute of Entomology. Distribution maps of

pests. Series A. Map 41.

Anon. 1940. reference title: Fourteenth Annual Report of the Department of Scientific and Industrial

Research, New Zealand. 100 pp.

Baker, R. 1988. List of interceptions from Cook Island bananas for the period 1986-1988., MAFQual,

Auckland, in Hill Gary. Visit to Aitutaki on 7th to 8th September, DSIR Plant Protection,

Auckland, New Zealand. 7 pp.

Bove, J.M. and R.Vogel (eds.). 1981. Description and illustration of virus and virus-like diseases of

citrus: a collection of color slides. Second edition International Organization of Citrus

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Butcher, C.F. 1981. Green vegetable bug advisory leaflet, South Pacific Commission No. 13, 4 pp.; 6

fig., (2 col.).

Charles, J. G. 1990. Visit to Rarotonga and Mauke, Cook Islands, 29 September to 11 October 1990.

Overseas travel report, DSIR Plant Protection, Auckland, New Zealand. 17 pp.

Cunningham, G.H. 1958. Hydnaceae of New Zealand. Part I - The Pileate genera Beenakia, Dentinum,

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Fiji

Fiji was not represented at the GISP Austral-Pacific Workshop, as its delegate, Mr Aisea Waqa, Fijian

National Focal Point for the International Plant Protection Convention, sadly passed away while

travelling to the meeting.

His institutional details were:

Mr Aisea Waqa

Principal Agricultural Officer, Quarantine Section

Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forests

Private Mail Bag

Post Office Raiwaqa

Tel: 679-312-512

Fax: 679-305-043

Email: [email protected]

The editors and workshop participants record their sincere condolences to the Government of Fiji and to

Mr Waqa's family and colleagues.

French Polynesia

Dr. Jean-Yves Meyer

Délégation à la Recherche

Ministère de la Culture, de l’Enseignement Supérieur et de la Recherche

Gouvernement de Polynésie française

B.P. 20981 Papeete, Tahiti

French Polynesia

Phone: (689) 501 555

Fax: (689) 43 34 00

E-mail : [email protected]

Introduction

⇒

Characteristics of the islands of French Polynesia

French Polynesia is a French overseas territory located in the South Pacific Ocean. It consists of 121

tropical oceanic islands and islets divided into five archipelagoes, namely the Austral, the Gambier, the

Marquesas, the Society, and the Tuamotu Islands. These islands are scattered between 7° and 27°

South, and 134° and 152° West over 5,030,000 km

of ocean (Exclusive Economic Zone). The best-

known island, Tahiti, is the largest (1045 km

) and the highest (2241m elevation).

The islands of French Polynesia are characterised by:

−

significant geographic isolation (Tahiti is 6000 km from Australia, and the USA and 8000 km from

Chile);

−

a relatively young geological age (between 0.2 to 28.6 million years old);

−

a small land area (a total of 3,520 km

) with only 8 islands larger than 100 km

; and

−

a great diversity of habitat types (young high volcanic islands and rocky islets, old barrier-reef

islands, coral limestone islands or atolls and coral islets, and raised limestone islands or “makatea”).

With an endemism rate of 75% for flowering plants, French Polynesia has one of the most unique

native flora in the Pacific Ocean after the Hawaiian Islands (90%) and New Caledonia (85%). It has

also one of the highest number of sea-birds (27 species) in tropical regions, and some of the most

endangered land birds worldwide (e.g. the Nuku Hiva pigeon, Ducula galeata, with 100-150 birds left

and the Tahiti monarch or flycatcher, Pomarea nigra, with less than 50 birds).

⇒

Human settlement and alien species introductions

The first inhabitants of French Polynesia were Polynesian migrants who sailed from Western Polynesia

(Samoa, Tonga) on their double-outrigger canoes about 2700 years ago, settling in the different

archipelagoes between 700 BC and 700 AD. About 80 plant species are considered to be Polynesian or

“aboriginal” introductions, including several food plants, including taro (Colocasia esculenta

(Araceae)), fe’i or wild banana (Musa troglodytarum (Musaceae)), breadfruit tree (Artocarpus edulis

(Moraceae)), Malay apple (Syzygium malaccense (Myrtaceae)), ritual or medicinal plants such as ti

plant (Cordyline fruticosa (Agavaceae)), kava (Piper methysticum (Piperaceae)), tiare tahiti (Gardenia

tahitensis (Rubiaceae)), and about 50 adventives or casual weeds accidentally introduced as seed

contaminants.

Among these introduced plants, 24 are currently naturalized. The latter include the Tahitian chestnut

(Inocarpus fagifer (Fabaceae)), a large buttressed tree that forms monospecific stands in the low and

wet valleys, and the candle nut (Aleurites moluccana (Euphorbiaceae)), a tree widely naturalized on

low-elevation slopes and mid-elevation plateaus up to 500 m.

The first Polynesians brought animals such as domestic chickens (Gallus gallus), pigs (Sus scrofa),

dogs (Canis familiaris), and Polynesian rats (Rattus exulans), either unintentionally or intentionally as a

food source. Rattus exulans is now found in nearly all the islands of French Polynesia. It coexists with

endemic land birds, but has been documented to impact sea-bird colonies on small islets in French

Polynesia. The effects of all these introduced or alien plant and animal species on the native biota were

probably minor compared to the land clearing, burning, planting and irrigating, as practised by early

Polynesian settlers.

The first European explorers landed in 1595 in the Marquesas Islands (Spanish captain Mendaña), 1606

in the Tuamotu Islands (Spanish captain Quirõs), and between 1767-69 in the Society Islands (English

captains Wallis and Cook, French captain Bougainville). Since then, recent or “modern” introductions

of alien species include more than 1500 plants (about 520 of them are currently naturalized), the

carnivorous black or ship rat (Rattus rattus) and the brown or Norway rat (Rattus norvegicus),

herbivorous ungulates (goat, sheep, cattle, horse), predatory cats, birds, fishes and invertebrates,

including mollusks, and detrimental insects such as the mosquito (Aedes aegypti) which is a dengue

fever vector. Feral ungulate populations rapidly began to open, degrade, and destroy upslope forests,

especially in the Marquesas and Austral Islands.

Today, 76 of the 121 islands of French Polynesia are inhabited. The population is estimated to be about

240,000 in 2002, four times higher than the population 50 years ago (ca. 62,000 in 1950). Seventy-five

percent of the population is restricted to the islands of Tahiti and Moorea in the Society archipelago.

1. History of harmful introductions and biological invasions in French Polynesia

The following chronology reviews the harmful or noxious invasive alien plant and animal species

which have caused or currently cause significant ecological impacts and/or economical damage, or

adverse health effects in French Polynesia. All these species were introduced unintentionally or

intentionally by human activities. This overview is based on various bibliographical sources (scientific

papers and “grey” literature) and on personal communications or observations for species introductions

that have taken place during the last decade.

1767-69 Accidental introduction of black or ship rats (Rattus rattus) with the first European sailors.

Black rats are considered to have driven endemic land birds to extinction, especially the

lorikeets (Vini spp. (Psittacidae)), the monarchs or flycatchers (Pomarea spp.

(Muscicapidae)) and the ground doves (Gallicolumba spp. (Columbidae)).

1815 Intentional introduction of the common guava (Psidium guajava (Myrtaceae)) by Bicknell.

During his short visit to Tahiti in November 1835 on the Beagle, Charles Darwin noted that

“…the species is so abundant that it is quite a weed.”

1845 Intentional introduction by English marine surgeon Francis Johnston of the weedy legumes

Acacia farnesiana, Leucaena leucocephala and Mimosa pudica, as well as the yellow elder

(Tecoma stans (Bignoniaceae)) and the Chinese or strawberry guava (Psidium cattleianum

(Myrtaceae)). They belong to the most aggressive plant invaders in native forests of French

Polynesia. Tecoma stans, which was reported by botanist F. R. Fosberg only in a few valleys

in 1934, had invaded nearly all the mesic zone of Tahiti by 1954.

1853 Intentional introduction of the weedy Lantana (Lantana camara (Verbenaceae)) to Tahiti by

French Marine Captain Chappe, as an ornamental plant.

1885 The swamp harrier (Circus approximans (Accipitridae)) was purposely introduced and

released on Tahiti by the German Consul for rat control. This predatory bird colonized all the

Society Islands and is commonly found at high elevation (up to 1,500 m) on Tahiti. It is

thought to have seriously affected native birds, such as the white tern (Gygis alba

(Sternidae)), the endemic gray-green fruit dove (Ptilinopus purpuratus (Columbidae)), the

Tahiti reed warbler (Acrocephalus caffer (Muscicapidae)). The swamp harrier is one of the

main causes for the extinction of the Polynesian imperial pigeon (Ducula pacifica aurorae

(Columbidae)) and the blue lorikeet (Vini peruviana (Psittacidae)) in Tahiti.

1887 French Marine Pharmacist J.-F. Raoul introduced about 210 plant species in the town of

Papeete (Tahiti) in a place that later became known as the “Jardin Raoul.”

1889 First detection of the scale insect (Aspidiotus destructor (Homoptera, Diaspididae)) that

attacks and kills coconut trees and other palm species.

1906-10 Accidental introduction of the white sand-fly (Stylocenops albiventris (Ceratopogonidae)) in

the Marquesas Islands, locally called the “Prussian nono” because it was brought by German

boats coming from New Guinea. The “nonos” which bite both humans and animals are now a

nuisance to tourism development in the Marquesas.

1906-08 Intentional introduction of the common myna (Acridotheres tristis (Sturnidae)) to control

introduced wasps on Tahiti. This aggressive bird is thought to predate the eggs and young of

the Tahiti swiftlet (Collocalia leucophaeus (Apodidae)) and may compete for food with the

Tahiti reed warbler (Acrocephalus caffer (Muscicapidae)). It was also introduced to Hiva Oa

(Marquesas Islands) in 1918 where it is thought to have displaced some endemic land birds

such as the Marquesan warbler (Acrocephalus caffer mendanae (Muscicapidae)), the

Marquesan swiftlet (Collocalia ocista (Apodidae)), and the white-capped fruit-dove

(Ptilinopus dupetitthouarsii (Columbidae)). Despite a law enacted in 1938 prohibiting alien

bird introductions, common mynas were intentionally released on two atolls of the Tuamotu

archipelago (Hao and Mururoa) in 1976, and in 2002 they were observed in the town of

Taihoae on the island of Nuku Hiva (Marquesas Islands) and on the raised atoll of Makatea

(Tuamotu Is.).

1924 Accidental introduction of the mosquito (Aedes aegypti (Culicidae)) in Tahiti, the main vector

insect of the dengue disease. It has spread to all the islands of French Polynesia, except on the

southeastern most inhabited island of Rapa (Austral Islands). Dengue is still one of the most

serious epidemic diseases in French Polynesia.

1925 First detection of the fruit fly (Bactrocera (Dacus) luteola (Diptera)) in Bora Bora (Society

Islands) by Entomologist L. E. Cheesman.

1926 About 200 mosquito fish (Gambusia affinis (Poeciliidae)) were introduced to Tahiti for

mosquito control, as well as 50 common carp (Cyprinus carpio), 30 large-mouth bass

(Micropterus salmoides), 12 channel catfish (Ictaturus punctatus) and 34 frogs. Mosquito fish

is responsible for disrupting aquatic ecosystems and destroying native insect species, such as

damselflies.

1927 Intentional introduction of the great horned owl (Bubo virginianus (Strigidae)) to Hiva Oa

(Marquesas Islands), where they have become well established up to 1000 m elevation. A

total of eight birds from San Francisco was released by the Lord Bishop Le Cadre for rat

control. They are thought to have affected all the native bird species on Hiva Oa, especially

the Marquesan kingfisher (Todiramphus godeffroyi (Alcedinidae)) and have contributed to

the extinction of the red-moustached fruit dove (Ptilinopus mercierii (Columbidae)).

1928 First mention of the fruit-fly (Bactrocera (Dacus) kirkii) in Tahiti, yet found in the Tuamotu,

Society, Gambier and Austral Islands (except on Rapa), but not yet in the Marquesas yet. This

species is known to attack fruits of 45 host-plant species belonging to 23 different plant

families.

1932 Entomologist W. M. Wheeler documented the invasion of the tropicopolitan big-headed ant

(Pheidole megacephala) in the Marquesas Islands, up to 1000 m elevation. In 1939, A.M.

Adamson considered it the most destructive of all foreign enemies to the native entomofauna

in the Marquesas. The big-headed ant is implicated in the exclusion of native and endemic

spiders in Hawai'i.

1936 A "hacienda snake" (of unknown species) escaped the US ship "Director," and was captured

on the docks of Papeete harbour. Introduction of the large legume tree (Paraserianthes

falcataria (Fabaceae)), commonly planted as a shade tree for coffee plantations in the Society

and the Austral Islands, now widely naturalized.

1937 Introduction of Miconia (Miconia calvescens (Melastomataceae)) in a private botanical

garden (now called the Papeari or Harrison Smith Botanical Garden) as an ornamental plant

by Harrison Willard Smith. This retired U.S. professor of physics planted more than 250

imported plant species between 1921 and 1944, including the currently invasive African tulip

tree (Spathodea campanulata (Bignoniaceae)) in 1932, the trumpet tree (Cecropia peltata

(Cecropiaceae)) in 1926, the shoebutton ardisia (Ardisia elliptica (Myrsinaceae)) in 1939, the

Brazilian pepper (Schinus terebinthifolius (Anacardiaceae)) in 1927, the rose-myrtle

(Rhodomyrtus tomentosa (Myrtaceae)) in 1928, the coco plum (Chrysobalanus icaco

(Chrysobalanaceae)) in 1922, and the night-blooming jasmine (Cestrum nocturnum

(Verbenaceae)) in 1936. The first dense stands of the small tree M. calvescens were observed

in the early 1970’s on the Taravao plateau in Tahiti. Nature protection groups and French and

US scientists tried to raise awareness of local authorities to the potential threat, but met little

success at the time. On Tahiti, about 80,000 ha have been invaded by miconia, which is

sometimes called “the purple plague” or the “green cancer.” Miconia has also invaded about

3,500 ha on Moorea (35% of the island surface) and between 350-450 ha on Raiatea (2.5%)

in the Society Islands.

1948 First observation by entomologist P. Viette of the alien moth (Othreis fullonia (Noctuidae)).

In 1969, this moth was reported to severely attack citrus on the island of Moorea (Society

Islands) and eventually caused a local economic collapse.

1950 First report of the presence in Tahiti of the water hyacinth (Eichhornia crassipes

(Pontederiaceae)), introduced as an ornamental plant. This aquatic invasive plant spread in

the ponds near the Faaa International Airport in 1973, where it is being mechanically

removed.

1956 Introduction of the giant sensitive plant (Mimosa invisa), a prickly legume weed. Its pathway

of introduction may have been accidental as a seed contaminant or intentional as a fodder

plant.

1957 Introduction of the predatory fish tilapia (Oreochromis mossambicus) as a food source.

1959 First report of the swamp sand-fly (Culicoides belkini), locally called the white nono, on Bora

Bora. The fly was first detected in a small sandy islet or motu where the airstrip was built,

and was supposedly introduced by US airplanes coming from Fiji. It has since spread to all

the Society Islands and to the atolls of Rangiroa and Hao in the Tuamotu Archipelago around

1966 (the only atolls to have airstrips at that time).

1960 The coconut leaf hispa or coconut hispine beetle (Brontispa longissima (Chrysomelidae)) was

accidentally introduced with ornamental palms from New Caledonia. It attacks and eventually

kills palms and coconut trees. This beetle quickly spread to all the Society Islands, then in

1970 on Nuku Hiva (Marquesas Islands), in 1981 on Tubuai (Austral Islands), and in 1983 on

Rurutu (Austral Islands) and Rangiroa (Tuamotu Islands).

1967 Intentional introduction of the giant African snail (Achatina fulica (Achatinidae)) on Tahiti

and Moorea as a food source. It was introduced in the Marquesas Islands in 1973. This

herbivorous snail rapidly became an agriculture pest, with up to 1.5 tons of snails per day

collected on Tahiti.

1970 Accidental introduction of the Queensland fruit-fly (Bactrocera (Dacus) tryoni,) native to

Australia. It was probably introduced to Tahiti from New Caledonia (where it is present since

1969) with infected fruits and is now present in all the Society, Tuamotu, Gambier and

Austral Islands, except Rapa. This species attacks the fruits of 113 host-plant species.

1974 The Department of Agriculture of French Polynesia released the carnivorous or rosy-wolf

snail (Euglandina rosea (Spiraxidae)) in Tahiti by control the giant African snail. This

predator was also introduced to Moorea in 1977 where it caused the extinction of seven

endemic tree snail species of the family Partulidae (Partula spp.) only ten years after its

introduction. Endemic Partulids are still surviving in remote areas of Tahiti (Te Pari cliffs)

and in high-elevation cloud forests above 1000 m elevation where the carnivorous snail is not

present. All the Partulids of Bora Bora (two species) and Tahaa (six species) are now thought

to be extinct, as well as two species on Huahine (of the four known) and 29 species on

Raiatea (of the 33 known). The endemic tree snails of the Marquesas and the Austral Islands

where Euglandina rosea is present are under threat. The same year, accidental introduction of

the Chinese rose beetle (Lepadoretus (Adoretus) sinicus (Scarabaeidae)) from Hawai’i where

it feeds on more than 350 plants, including 50 cultivated species. In four years, this

defoliating insect spread 30 km from its first introduction site at the Faaa International

Airport.

1977 Fraudulent introduction of young citrus plants infected by the tristeza or CTV (Citrus Tristeza

Virus) transmitted by an introduced aphid insect (Toxoptera citrida). The virus attacks orange

and lemon trees.

1979 The red-vented bulbuls (Pycnonotus cafer (Pycnonotidae)) are first noticed in the residential

area of Papeete. This frugivorous bird is now common up to 1000 m elevation on Tahiti, and

has become a pest in agriculture, as well as an active disperser of invasive alien plants. It is

said to have negative interactions with the Tahiti monarch (Pomarea nigra).

1988 First observation in Tahiti of the thrips (Thrips palmi (Thripidae)) which infests a wide

variety of crops, especially vegetables.

1990s Observation in Tahiti of the spiralling whitefly (Aleurodiscus dispersus (Aleyrodidae)), a pest

of vegetables, fruit trees, ornamentals and shade trees which has spread rapidly through the

Pacific after gaining establishment in Hawai’i in 1978.

1994 Two non-identified iguanas escaped from a yacht, and disappeared on the atoll of Rangiroa in

the Tuamotu Islands.

1995-96 Accidental introduction of the common house gecko (Hemidactylus frenatus (Gekkonidae)),

now widespread in the urban areas of Tahiti.

1995-97 New sightings of Miconia calvescens in the islands of Tahaa (Society Islands), Nuku Hiva

and Fatu Hiva (Marquesas Islands), Rurutu and Rapa (Austral Islands). The plant pest was

accidentally introduced with contaminated soil on car wheels, bulldozers and tractors or in

gravel and soil piles imported from Tahiti.

1996 Accidental introduction of the Red Oriental fruit-fly (Bactrocera dorsalis) in Tahiti, first

sighted on the Taravao Plateau. It spread to Moorea (Society Islands) and to the atoll of Hao

(Tuamotu Islands) in 2000.

1997 Discovery of a young frog larva with ornamental fishes bought in a pet-store in Papeete. The

red-billed Leiothrix, also called Pekin or Japanese robin (Leiothrix lutea (Muscicapidae))

were sold in a pet store in Papeete. This colourful frugivorous species is known to have

spread in Hawai'i where it actively disperses invasive alien plants.

1998 Sudden invasion by a non-identified red stink bug (Heteroptera, Coreidae) on the raised

limestone island of Makatea (Tuamotu Islands) which attacks fruiting trees. The Pacific fruit-

fly (Bactocera xanthodes) was accidentally introduced to Raivavae (Austral Islands) from a

boat coming from other Pacific Islands. This species is known from Cook, Fiji, Samoa, Tonga

and Vanuatu. B. xanthodes was found on Rurutu in 2000 (Austral Islands), but has not yet

spread to other archipelagoes of French Polynesia.

1999 A non-identified squirrel that escaped from a Korean fishing boat was observed on the docks

of Papeete. A young green iguana (Iguana iguana) was found in the town of Papeete,

captured, and kept in captivity where it eventually died. The Queensland fruit-fly (Bactrocera

tryoni) was captured in the village of Taiohae in Nuku Hiva (Marquesas Islands, northern

group) and in the village of Vaitahu in Tahuata (Marquesas Islands, southern group).

2000 Discovery of unidentified piranhas with other ornamental fishes bought in a pet-store in the

town of Papeete. The two-spotted leafhopper (Sophonia rufofascia) was discovered by US

entomologists during a field-trip to Tahiti. The insect is known to cause dieback of cultivated

plants, as well as native plants, especially the common fern (Dicranopteris linearis

(Gleicheniaceae)).

2001 Sudden population explosion of the glassy-winged sharpshooter (Homalodiscus coagulata

(Cicadellidae)) in Tahiti. This insect was first reported by local entomologist R. Putoa of the

Department of Agriculture (Service du Développement Rural) in 1999 on a Lagerstroemia

ornamental tree (Lythraceae).

2002 Live giant cane toads (Bufo marinus, Bufonidae) were found in a container with wood logs

shipped from Fiji. The same year, live snail (Helix aspera) was found by the Plant Protection

Section of the Service du Développement Rural in a container from France with three live

plants. Green swordtail fishes (Xiphophorus helleri) were first noticed by aquatic biologist R.

Englund of the Bishop Museum of Honolulu in the Papenoo river in Tahiti. They are known

to bring in fish parasites like leeches and internal parasites and to heavily prey on young

stream native gobies in Hawai’i.

2003 Discovery of an escaped corn snake (Elaphe guttata (Colubridae)) above the dumping station

of the town of Faaa in Tahiti.

2. Development of a strategy to combat invasive species in French Polynesia

French Polynesia was declared a French protectorate in 1842, then a French colony in 1880. It was

included in the French Pacific Settlements (Etablissements Français de l’Océanie (E.F.O.)) in 1946

along with New Caledonia and Wallis & Futuna. It became a French Overseas Territory (Territoire

français d’Outre-Mer (T.O.M.) in 1957. The Statute of Self-Government, enacted in September 1984,

granted the Territory of French Polynesia complete responsibility for its environmental protection

policy, as well as for agriculture, reef and marine environments, and associated natural resources.

The following chronology reviews the legislative texts that have been enacted to control species

introductions in French Polynesia:

1936 Decree controlling the entrance of noxious insects and animals into the French Pacific

Settlements. The introduction of reptiles, insects, felines, and birds of prey is prohibited under

this decree and all incoming ships into harbours must declare any animals on board.

1938 Decree banning the introduction, possession, and release of any introduced birds in the

French Pacific Settlements.

1971 Law N°71-195 prohibiting the introduction, transportation, and rearing of the giant African

snail Achatina fulica. Chemical treatment of soil from infected islands to Achatina-free

islands is obligatory.

1972 Law N°77-772 declaring the environment (including nature protection) to be within the

jurisdiction of the Territory of French Polynesia.

1977 Law N°77-93 prohibiting the import of all live animals into French Polynesia, except for

exemptions approved by the Government Council.

1984 Law N°84-260 nominating a Minister of Environment and establishing the Department of

Environment (Délégation à l’Environnement) in charge of nature protection.

Decree N°985CM, voted by the Government of French Polynesia, prohibiting new

importations of alien birds of the families Accipitridae (hawks and eagles), Falconidae

(falcons), Strigidae (barn-owls) and Tytonidae (owls), as well as Columbidae (doves and

pigeons) and Rallidae (rails).

1988 Formation of a collaborative Miconia Research and Control Program, following the

recognition by the French Polynesian and French authorities of the severe ecological impacts

caused by the invasive alien tree Miconia (Miconia calvescens). It was led by the French

Overseas Research Organization (Office de Recherche Scientifique et Technique d'Outre-Mer

(ORSTOM), now renamed Institut de Recherche pour le Développement (IRD)). The aims of

the project were to conduct studies on the bio-ecology and distribution on miconia, and to

find efficient control method for this invasive plant. Funds were provided by both the French

Polynesian Ministry of the Environment and France.

1990 Decree N°90CM voted by the Government of French Polynesia, declaring Miconia

calvescens a noxious plant in French Polynesia. Cultivation and transportation within and

between islands is prohibited.

1991-92 The first manual and chemical control operations against Miconia were launched on the

island of Raiatea, sponsored and funded by the Délégation à l’Environnement with the

logistic support of the Service du Développement Rural and the voluntary participation of

many local schoolchildren and their teachers.

1993 First intervention of 100 French Army soldiers (mostly French Polynesians doing their

compulsory military service) to remove Miconia on Raiatea for one week, with the logistic

support of the Service du Développement Rural and the participation of local schoolchildren.

This Miconia intervention was repeated annually during the period 1997-2002.

1995 Law N°95-257AT on Nature Protection (Délibération sur la Protection de la Nature),

prepared by the Ministry of Environment and voted by the Territorial Assembly of French

Polynesia. Its objectives are to protect endangered endemic species, and natural areas with

strong conservation value, and to identify and control alien species which are considered a

threat to the biodiversity of French Polynesia.

1996 Law N°96-42AT on Plant Protection prepared by the Ministry of Agriculture and voted by

the Territorial Assembly of French Polynesia. One of its aims is to prevent the introduction of

noxious organisms (plant pathogens, alien insects, invertebrates and plants) that could

become agricultural or environmental pests in French Polynesia.

1997 A collaborative agreement was signed between the French Polynesian Government and the

Hawai’i Department of Agriculture for a Miconia Biological Control Program. The same

year, the First Regional Conference on Miconia Control was held in Papeete (Tahiti),

sponsored and funded by the Department for Research (Délégation à la Recherche) and by

ORSTOM.

1998 Decree N°1151CM establishing an Inter-Ministerial Technical Committee to Control Miconia

and other Invasive Plant Species Threatening the Biodiversity of French Polynesia, chaired

by the Minister of Environment. It is composed of governmental agencies that are involved in

the prevention and control of introduced species, including the Environment, Research,

Agriculture, Equipment and Tourism Departments. They meet on a regular basis, and are

allowed to invite other non-government participants depending on their relevance to the

action plans. These may include research scientists, French Army representatives, nature

protection groups, elected officials, and representatives of local communities. The main goals

are to define short and long term control strategies, which may include finding manpower and

supplies, and determining priorities regarding public information, education, research, and

regulatory instruments.

3. Summary of existing strategy and programs on IAS

3.1 Public information and education

Several articles have appeared in the two local newspapers Les Nouvelles and La Dépêche, and several

local magazines. Local radio and TV have provided educational and informational time. Illustrated

posters and leaflets were recently produced. They include:

⇒

three different posters on Miconia prevention and control published by the Délégation à

l’Environnement and widely distributed to the high volcanic islands of French Polynesia which

could potentially be invaded. They were entitled “The Green Cancer” (Le Cancer Vert, 1989),

“Danger Miconia” (1991), and “Stop Miconia” (Halte au Miconia, 1993, prepared by the author);

⇒

a poster on the flora and fauna of montane rain forests in Tahiti published by the Délégation à

l’Environnement in 1996 in collaboration with the author, mentioning some introduced noxious

species, the swamp harrier (Circus approximans), Miconia (Miconia calvescensi), Lantana

(Lantana camara) and the thimbleberry (Rubus rosifolius);

⇒

an illustrated poster on biological invasion by alien plants and animals in French Polynesia, “Les

invasions biologiques: menaces pour la Polynésie française”, prepared by the author for the

Délégation à la Recherche in 1998;

⇒

a poster illustrating the thirteen invasive alien plant species threatening the biodiversity of French

Polynesia and some other potential plant invaders, prepared by the author for the Délégation à la

Recherche in 1999. It was jointly funded and published by the Délégation à la Recherche and the

Délégation à l’Environnement in 2002;

⇒

a leaflet in English entitled “Let Us Protect Our Islands” published in 2000 by the Minister of

Agriculture and the Service du Développement Rural to build foreign tourists’ awareness of the risk

of introducing plant and animal species to French Polynesia, and the need to declare any plant

product when they arrive in French Polynesia and when they travel between the islands; and

⇒

several leaflets on the fruit-flies present in French Polynesia (Bactrocera dorsalis, B. kirki, B.

xanthodes, B. tryonii) were published in 2001-2002 by the Minister of Agriculture and the Service

du Développement Rural. These show the current island distribution of the various flies and give

some recommendations on prevention and control.

3.2. Recent legislation and policy efforts

Several decrees contributing to IAS management in French Polynesia. were adopted by the Council of

Ministers of the Government of French Polynesia (Conseil des Ministres):

⇒

July 25 1996: Decree N°740 CM prepared by the Service du Développement Rural, prohibiting new

imports of 75 alien plant species (list prepared by the author) that are current or potential noxious

species. The Decree also includes a list of noxious insects such as the Chinese rose beetle

(Lepadoretus sinicus), the coconut hispine beetle (Brontispa longissima), the fruit-flies (Bactrocera

spp.) and the big headed ant (Pheidole megacephala) and a list of noxious fungi, arthropods,

nematodes, bacteria, viruses, and mycoplamas.

⇒

December 3 1997: Decree N° 1333CM prepared by the Délégation à l’Environnement, declaring

the carnivorous snail or rosy-wolf snail (Euglandina rosea) a threat to biodiversity. New

importation, breeding and transportation between islands is prohibited, and destruction authorized.

⇒ February 12 1998: Decree N°244CM prepared by the Délégation à l’Environnement. A total of

thirteen dominant invasive alien plants in French Polynesia including Acacia farnesiana, shoebutton

ardisia (Ardisia elliptica), trumpet tree (Cecropia peltata), Lantana (Lantana camara), false-acacia

(Leucaena leucocephala), molasses grass (Melinis minutiflora), Miconia (Miconia calvescens),

strawberry guava (Psidium cattleianum), thimble berry (Rubus rosifolius), African tulip tree

(Spathodea campanulata), rose apple (Syzygium jambos), Java plum (Syzygim cumini), and yellow

elder (Tecoma stans), were declared a threat to biodiversity. New introductions, propagation and

cultivation, and transportation within and between islands are strictly prohibited and the destruction

of these species is authorized.

⇒

February 9 1999: Decree N°171CM prepared by the Délégation à l’Environnement. Four alien

birds, the common myna (Acridotheres tristis), the red-vented bulbul (Pycnonotus cafer), the

swamp harrier (Circus approximans) and the great horned owl (Bubo virginianus) were declared a

threat to biodiversity.

3.3. Recent actions in the field

⇒

Manual and chemical Miconia control operations have been conducted on the island of Raiatea

since 1992, Tahaa since 1996, and Nuku Hiva and Fatu Hiva since 1997. The Inter-Ministerial

Technical Committee to Control Miconia and other Invasive Plants organized the Miconia control

campaign in the island of Raiatea in 1999, 2000, 2001 and 2002 in collaboration with the French

Army (80-90 soldiers for one week). More than 1,450,000 miconia plants including 1,600

reproductive trees were destroyed between 1992 and 2003, and the invasion was contained.

⇒

Fruit-fly chemical control conducted by the Service du Développement Rural in Tahiti in 1997,

1999 and 2000, and in the Austral and the Marquesas Islands since 1998 and 1999 respectively.

⇒

Rat control by poisoning is conducted by the Society of Ornithology of French Polynesia Manu

since 1998 in three valleys of Tahiti for the recovery of the Tahiti monarch or flycatcher.

⇒

Botanical field surveys were recently conducted by the author for the Délégation à la Recherche in

the islands of Bora Bora (Society Islands), Nuku Hiva and Fatu Hiva (Marquesas), Rurutu and

Tubuai (Austral Islands) in 1999 and 2000. The goals are to inventory and locate both native and

endemic plants and IAS.

⇒

Capture of a green iguana (Iguana iguana) of unknown origin (July 1999, town of Papeete) and of a

squirrel introduced as a pet on a Korean ship (August 1999, docks of Papeete) by the Zoo-sanitary

Section of the Service du Développement Rural and French Customs. In 2002, live snails (Helix

aspera) were found by the Plant Protection Section of the Service du Développement Rural in a

container from France.

⇒

Release in April 2000 of a Miconia-specific pathogen fungus (Colletotrichum gloeosporioides

forma specialis miconiae) as a biocontrol agent in a test-zone on Tahiti.

⇒

Release in 2003 of a parasitoid wasp (Fopius arisanus (Braconidae)) to control fruit flies by the

Service du Développement Rural.

⇒

Project of the Service du Développement Rural to release biological control insects to control the

glassy-winged sharpshooter.

3.4. Prevention and monitoring efforts

⇒

The Inter-Ministerial Invasive Plants Committee notified the French Polynesian airline company

Air Tahiti Nui in May 1999 of the potential accidental introduction of the brown tree snake (Boiga

irregularis) from Guam. This airline company organized the first direct flight between Tahiti and

Guam during the Pacific Games in June 1999.

⇒

Post-release monitoring of the Miconia biocontrol pathogen agent in Tahiti since 2000 (conducted

by the author). In 2002, 10% of the inoculated Miconia plants died and 50% of them have serious

leaf or stem damages.

4. Government departments/agencies and other organizations concerned with IAS

⇒

Research and field surveys

Délégation à la Recherche

Ministère de la Culture et de la Recherche

Gouvernement de Polynésie française

B.P. 20981 Papeete

Tahiti

French Polynesia

⇒

Field Management

Service du Développement Rural

Ministère de l'Agriculture

Gouvernement de Polynésie française

B.P. 100 Papeete

Tahiti

French Polynesia

⇒

Legislation, information and education

Direction de l'Environnement

Ministère de l'Environnement

Gouvernement de Polynésie française

B.P. 4562 Papeete

Tahiti

French Polynesia

⇒

Rat control (non-governmental organization)

Société d'Ornithologie de Polynésie "Te Manu"

B.P. 21098 Papeete

Tahiti

French Polynesia

5. Assessment of the current situation

The remote, small, and diverse islands of French Polynesia have experienced a dramatic increase in the

number of alien species introductions. The number of introduced species during the last 250 years has

been about 20 times higher than the number of Polynesian introductions over the previous 2500 years.

The 18

century was marked by the arrival of the first Europeans; the 19

century was a period of

acclimatization of new plant species (mainly as food sources, and fodder for cattle) and the first

biological control attempts, most of which were unsuccessful or worse leading to ecological disasters;

and the 20

century was marked by introduction of ornamental and forestry plants, and accidental

introduction of fruit flies, mosquitoes, and other stowaway noxious insects on airplanes and boats. The

US Army used Bora Bora as a military supplies base during WWII; the Faaa International Airport was

opened in 1960, the Autonomous Port of Papeete, a major trade port in the Pacific Ocean opened in

1962; and the establishment of the Pacific Experimental Centre (Centre d’Expérimentation du Pacifique

(CEP)) in 1963 was followed by nuclear testing between 1966 and 1996 which totally overturned the

socio-economic structure of French Polynesia with an exponential increase of imports.

Today, the number of introduced flowering plant species that are now naturalized in French Polynesia

includes more than 520 species that are established in the wild. It is nearly equal to the total number of

the flowering native plant species (ca. 690). Moreover, the total number of ‘exotic’ plants that are

cultivated in French Polynesia (more than 1,300) far exceeds the number of native species. It is

increasing exponentially with the development of commercial trade (330,000 tons of goods imported by

boat in 1989 to 475,000 tons in 1999), tourism (50,000 tourists in 1970 to 260,000 tourists in 2000), and

the diversification of agriculture, notably through the growing success of ornamental plants and “green

industry” activities related to plant nurseries, gardening, and horticulture.

New means of transport, the ease of travel to and from Tahiti with direct flight connections to

Rarotonga, New Zealand, Australia, Hawai'i, Japan, USA, and Chile, the increase of passengers in

transit through Tahiti (to 382,000 in 1989 to 529,000 in 1998), and the increase of plane freight between

islands in French Polynesia (from 386 tons in 1988 to 1,657 in 1998) have dramatically dramatically

increased the risk of species introduction or transportation by foreign tourists or local people. A new

airport was constructed on Raivavae in 2002 and other airports are planned on Rimatara and Rapa in the

Austral archipelago. The new ports of entry will allow unrestricted travel by people and lead to the

increase of introductions of alien biota.

Despite rules and regulations, introduction of noxious species still occurs in French Polynesia. Most of

the recent introductions are accidental but some are intentional resulting from a lack of law enforcement

and/or public awareness. Black rats (Rattus rattus) and carnivorous snails were recently introduced to

Fatu Hiva with the construction of a hydro-electric station; Miconia was introduced to the Marquesas

with road construction, and to the Austral Islands with the building of water tanks. Pet animals brought

by tourists on ships have escaped to the wild and there are a few cases of recently introduced pest

animals, such as the common mynah to Nuku Hiva in 2002. These incidents stem from ignorance of

both the law and the ecological impacts.

The greatest fears for the islands of French Polynesia are the potential introduction of:

⇒

the little fire ant or fourmi électrique (Wasmannia auropunctata) that has invaded New Caledonia

and was recently found in Vanuatu and Hawai'i;

⇒

the brown tree snake (Boiga irregularis) that has caused the extinction of endemic birds on Guam;

⇒

the shrubby melastome (Clidemia hirta) that has invaded Fiji and the Hawaiian islands; and

⇒

crop diseases such as taro blight caused by Phytophtora colocasiae; banana bunchy top disease

caused by the banana bunchy top virus; Moko disease caused by the bacteria (Ralstonia

(Pseudomonas) solanacearum) which also attacks ornamental plants from the Heliconiaceae family

(birds of paradise, etc.); coconut-eating insects (Oryctes rhinoceros) which are established in the

surrounding Pacific Islands; and other fruit flies such as the papaya fruit fly (Bactrocera papayae).

6. Priorities for future work

There is an urgent need for:

⇒

more information/awareness on plant and animal IAS worldwide, especially in the surrounding

Pacific islands;

⇒

more political support, especially for long-term control programs at local, regional and international

levels;

⇒

more education of local people and foreign tourists;

⇒

more law enforcement;

⇒

more training of custom and quarantine people, a better quarantine system, and the development of

early warning systems including risk assessment protocols;

⇒

more collaboration with other Pacific Islands and nearby continents;

⇒

more biological surveys in remote inhabited islands of French Polynesia where new airport and

harbour constructions are being planned to quickly identify and prevent new introductions; and

⇒

more surveys of natural areas of high conservation value for early detection and eradication of

newly arrived IAS, such as the recent discovery in Fatu Hiva of black rats Rattus rattus in 2000, and

Miconia (Miconia calvescens) trees in 2002 respectively.

Acknowledgements

I would like to thank Yves Sechan, Edouard Suhas, and André Ung (Institut Louis Malardé, Tahiti),

Teiki Richmond (Service du Développement Rural, Hiva Oa), and Jean-François Butaud (Service du

Développement Rural, Forêts et Gestion de l’Espace Rural, Tahiti) for relevant personal

communications on recent alien species introductions in French Polynesia. Djeen Cheou and Rudolph

Putoa (Service du Développement Rural, Protection des Végétaux, Tahiti) provided useful documents

on fruit flies in French Polynesia. I am also particularly grateful to plant pathologist Eloise Killgore

(Hawai’i Department of Agriculture) for revising the English, and for her numerous corrections and

comments.

Guam

Dr. Russell K. Campbell

Plant Protection & Quarantine

Guam Department of Agriculture

192 Dairy Road

Mangilao, GU 96913, USA

Tel: (671) 472 5812

Fax: (671) 477 9487

Cell: (671) 687 9786

E-mail:

[email protected]

Introduction

This is a Guam profile for IAS. It includes a list of pest insect and mite species associated with plants,

as well as weeds, mosquitos and other organisms considered harmful in some way, and considered

either not endemic or cryptogenic. Also included is a list of management programs, governmental

agencies and experts concerned with IAS, and a bibliography of sources. The list is most certainly not

comprehensive and should be continually improved. Most notably, no attempt was made at this time to

include all plant or animal pathogens and there are probably a number of other IAS that have been

omitted.

1. List of probable IAS in Guam

ID Scientific name Classification Common name

1 Acanthograeffea denticulata (Redtenbacher) Phasmatodea: Phasmatidae denticulate stick insect

2 Achaea janata (L.) Lepidoptera: Noctuidae castor semilooper

277 Achatina fulica (Bowdich) land invertebrate giant African snail

3 Adoretus sinicus Burmeister Coleptera: Scarabaeidae Chinese rose beetle

4 Adoxophyes melia Clarke Lepidoptera: Tortricidae melia tortricid

295 Aedeomyia catasticta Knab Diptera: Culicidae mosquito

293 Aedes albopictus (Skuse) Diptera: Culicidae forest day mosquito

287 Aedes vexans (Meigen) Diptera: Culicidae vexans mosquito

5 Agathodes ostentalis (Geyer) Lepidoptera: Pyralidae moth

6 Agonoxena pyrogramma Meyrick Lepidopter: Agonoxenidae coconut flat moth

7 Agonoxena sp. Lepidoptera: Agonoxenidae moth

8 Agrilus occipitalis (Eschscholtz) Coleoptera: Buprestidae citrus bark borer

9 Agrius convolvuli (L.) Lepidoptera: Sphingidae sweet potato hawk moth

10 Aiolopus thalassinus dubius Willemse Orthoptera: Acrididae brown-winged

11 Alciphron glaucus (F.) Hemiptera: Pentatomidae pentatomid bug

12 Aleurocanthus spiniferus (Quaintance) Homoptera: Aleyrodidae orange spiny whitefly

13 Aleurodicus dispersus Russell Homoptera: Aleyrodidae spiraling whitefly

14 Aleurodothrips fasciapennis (Franklin) Thysanoptera: Thripidae thrips

ID Scientific name Classification Common name

15 Aleurothrixus floccosus (Maskell) Homoptera: Aleyrodidae woolly whitefly

16 Anaballus amplicollis (Fairmaire) Coleoptera: Curculionidae weevil

17 Andaspis punicae (Laing) Homoptera: Diaspididae scale

18 Anisodes illepidaria Guenée Lepidoptera: Geometridae mango shoot looper

19 Anomala sulcatula Burmeister Coleoptera: Scarabaeidae chafer beetle

20 Anomis flava (F.) Lepidoptera: Noctuidae hibiscus caterpillar

292 Anopheles barbirostris Van der Wulp Diptera: Culicidae mosquito

289 Anopheles indefinitus (Ludlow) Diptera: Culicidae mosquito

291 Anopheles litoralis King Diptera: Culicidae mosquito

301 Anopheles subpictus Grassi Diptera: Culicidae mosquito

300 Anopheles vagus Donitz Diptera: Culicidae mosquito

278 Anoplolepis gracilipes (Smith) Hymenoptera: Formicidae yellow crazy ant

254 Antigonon leptopus Hooker & Arnott land plant, Polygonaceae chain of love

21 Antonina graminis (Maskell) Homoptera: Pseudococcidae rhodesgrass mealybug

22 Anua coronata (F.) Lepidoptera: Noctuidae moth

23 Anua tongaensis Hampson Lepidoptera: Noctuidae moth

24 Aonidiella comperei Mckenzie Homoptera: Diaspididae false yellow scale

25 Aonidiella inornata Mckenzie Homoptera: Diaspididae inornate scale

26 Aonidiella orientalis (Newstead) Homoptera: Diaspididae oriental scale

27 Aphis craccivora Koch Homoptera: Aphididae cowpea aphid

28 Aphis gossypii Glover Homoptera: Aphididae cotton or melon aphid

274 Aphis nerii Boyer de Fonscolombe Homoptera: Aphididae oleander aphid

275 Aphis spiraecola Patch Homoptera: Aphididae spirea aphid

298 Armigeres subalbatus (Coquillet) Diptera: Culicidae mosquito

29 Aspidiella sacchari (Cockerell) Homoptera: Diaspididae sugarcane scale

30 Aspidiotus destructor Signoret Homoptera: Diaspididae coconut scale

31 Asterolecanium bambusae (Boisduval) Homoptera: Asterolecaniidae bamboo scale

32 Asterolecanium miliaris (Boisduval) Homoptera: Asterolecaniidae bamboo scale

33 Asterolecanium pseudomiliaris Green Homoptera: Asterolecaniidae bamboo scale

34 Asterolecanium pustulans (Cockerell) Homoptera: Asterolecaniidae oleander pit scale

35 Asterolecanium robustum Green Homoptera: Asterolecaniidae bamboo scale

36 Atractomorpha psittacina Haan Orthoptera: Pygomorphidae grasshopper

37 Aulacophora quadrimaculata (F.) Coleoptera: Chrysomelidae spotted cucumber beetle

38 Aulacophora similis (Olivier) Coleoptera: Chrysomelidae spotted cucumber beetle

39 Bactrocera cucurbitae Coquillett Diptera: Tephritidae melon fly

41 Badamia exclamationis F. Lepidoptera: Hesperiidae myrobalan butterfly

42 Batrachedra sp. Lepidoptera: Colephoridae moth

43 Batrachomorphus atrifrons (Metcalf) Homoptera: Cicadellidae leafhopper

ID Scientific name Classification Common name

44 Bemisia tabaci (Gennadius) Homoptera: Aleyrodidae sweet potato whitefly

255 Bidens pilosa L. land plant, Asteraceae Spanish needles

279 Boiga irregularis (Merrem) land reptile brown tree snake

45 Bolacidothrips orizae Moulton Thysanoptera: Thripidae thrips

46 Brachyplatys insularis Ruckes Hemiptera: Plataspididae black island stink bug

302 Brontispa chalybeipennis (Zacher) Coleoptera: Chrysomelidae Pohnpei coconut leaf beetle

47 Brontispa palauensis (Esaki & Chujo) Coleoptera: Chrysomelidae Palau coconut leaf beetle

48 Capelopterum punctatellum ? Melichar Homoptera: Issidae planthopper

49 Cerataphis lataniae (Boisduval) Homoptera: Aphididae latania aphid

50 Ceresium unicolor (F.) Coleptera: Cerambycidae longhorn beetle

51 Ceroplastes ceriferus Anderson Homoptera: Coccidae Mexican wax scale

52 Ceroplastes floridensis Comstock Homoptera: Coccidae Florida was scale

53 Ceroplastes rubens Maskell Homoptera: Coccidae red wax scale

54 Chaetocnema confinis Crotch Coleoptera: Chrysomelidae sweet potato flea beetle

55 Chanithus gramineus (F.) Homoptera: Dictyopharidae grass snout hopper

56 Chloriona formosella (Matsumura) Homoptera: Delphacidae planthopper

57 Chlorophorus annularis (F.) Coleoptera: Cerambycidae bamboo longhorn

58 Chloropulvinaria psidii Maskell Homoptera: Coccidae green shield scale

256 Chromoleana odorata (L.) R.M. King &

H. Robinson

land plant, Asteraceae Siam weed

59 Chrysobothris costata Kerremans Coleptera: Buprestidae wood borer

60 Chrysodeixis chalcites (Esper) Lepidoptera: Noctuidae green garden looper

61 Chrysomphalus dictyospermi (Morgan) Homoptera: Diaspididae dictyospermum scale

62 Cicadulina bipunctella (Matsumura) Homoptera: Cicadellidae leafhopper

257 Coccinia grandis (L.) Voigt land plant, Cucurbitaceae ivy gourd

63 Coccus hesperidum L. Homoptera: Coccidae brown soft scale

64 Coccus longulus (Douglas) Homoptera: Coccidae long brown scale

65 Coccus moestus De Lotto Homoptera: Coccidae coccid scale

66 Coccus viridis (Green) Homoptera: Coccidae green scale

67 Colasposoma metallicum Lefevre Coleoptera: Chrysomelidae leaf beetle

68 Conocephalus longipennis (Haan) Orthoptera: Tettigoniidae long-horned grasshopper

69 Cosmopolites sordidus (Germar) Coleoptera: Curculionidae banana root borer

70 Creontiades pallidifer (Walker) Hemiptera: Miridae sweet potato yellow bug

71 Crocidolomia pavenana Zeller Lepidoptera: Pyralidae cabbage cluster caterpillar

72 Cryptophlebia ombrodelta (Lower) Lepidoptera: Tortricidae litchi fruit moth

73 Cryptophlebia peltastica (Meyrick) Lepidoptera: Tortricidae tortricid moth

74 Cryptorhynchus mangiferae (F.) Coleoptera: Curculionidae seed weevil

299 Culex fuscanus Wied. Diptera: Culicidae mosquito

ID Scientific name Classification Common name

290 Culex fuscocephalus Theobald Diptera: Culicidae mosquito

288 Culex quinquefasciatus Say Diptera: Culicidae southern house mosquito

294 Culex sitiens Wied. Diptera: Culicidae mosquito

296 Culex tritaeniorhynchus Giles Diptera: Culicidae mosquito

258 Cuscuta sp. land plant, Convolvulaceae dodder

75 Cylas formicarius (F.) Coleoptera: Curculionidae sweet potato weevil

76 Cyrtopeltis tenuis (Reuter) Hemiptera: Miridae tomato bug

273 Dialeurodes citrifolii (Morgan) Homoptera: Aleyrodidae whitefly

77 Dialeurodes kirkaldyi (Kotinsky) Homoptera: Aleyrodidae Kirkaldy whitefly

78 Diaphania hyalinata (L.) Lepidoptera: Pyralidae melonworm

79 Diaphania indica (Saunders) Lepidoptera: Pyralidae cucurbit leafroller

80 Diaspis bromeliae (Kerner) Homoptera: Diaspididae pineapple scale

81 Diocalandra frumenti (F.) Coleoptera: Curulionidae coconut weevil

82 Dudua aprobola (Meyrick) Lepidoptera: Tortricidae tortricid moth

83 Dymicoccus boninsis (Kuwana) Homoptera: Pseudococcidae grey sugarcane mealybug

84 Dysmicoccus brevipes (Cockerell) Homoptera: Pseudococcidae pineapple mealybug

85 Dysmicoccus neobrevipes Beardsley Homoptera: Pseudococcidae grey pineapple mealybug

86 Dysmicoccus saipanenis (Shiraiwa) Homoptera: Pseudococcidae Saipan mealybug

259 Eichhornia crassipes (Martius) Solms-

Laubach

aquatic plant, Pontederiaceae water hyacinth

87 Eotetranychus cendanai Rimando Acari: Tetranychidae citrus leaf mite

88 Epilachna 26punctata philippensis (Dieke) Coleoptera: Coccinellidae Philippine lady beetle

89 Epitrix hirtipennis (Melsheimer) Coleoptera: Chrysomelidae tobacco flea beetle

90 Erionota thrax (L.) Lepidoptera: Hesperiidae banana leafroller

91 Etiella zinckenella (Treischke) Lepidoptera: Pyralidae lima-bean pod borer

92 Euconocephalus nasutus (Thunberg) Orthoptera: Tettigoniidae Grasshopper

93 Eudocima fullonia (Clerck) Lepidoptera: Noctuidae fruit-piercing moth

280 Euglandina rosea (Ferussac) land invertebrate rosy wolf snail

94 Euploea leucostictos Eschscholtz Lepidoptera: Nymphalidae blue-spotted king crow

95 Euscepes postfasciatus (Fairmaire) Coleoptera: Curculionidae West Indian sweet potato

weevil

96 Eusyphax bivittatus (Metcalf) Homoptera: Derbidae derbid planthopper

97 Exitianus capicola (Stål) Homoptera: Cicadellidae leafhopper

98 Exitianuz plebeius (Kirkaldy) Homoptera: Cicadellidae leafhopper

99 Ferrisia virgata (Cockerell) Homoptera: Pseudococcidae striped mealybug

100 Fulvius angustatus Usinger Hemiptera: Miridae mirid

101 Furcaspis oceanica Lindinger Homoptera: Diaspididae cocount red scale

102 Gonocephalum sp. Coleoptera: Tenebrionidae darkling beetle

103 Grammarodes gemetrica (F.) Lepidoptera: Noctuidae geometric noctuid

ID Scientific name Classification Common name

104 Gryllotalpa sp. Orthoptera: Gryllotalpidae mole cricket

105 Halticus insularis Usinger Hemiptera: Miridae island fleahopper

106 Halticus tibialis Reuter Hemiptera: Miridae black garden fleahopper

107 Helicoverpa armigera (Hübner) Lepidoptera: Noctuidae old world bollworm

108 Heliothrips haemorrhoidalis (Bouché) Thysanoptera: Thripidae greenhouse thrips

109 Hemiberlesia lataniae (Signoret) Homoptera: Diaspididae latania scale

110 Hemiberlesia palmae (Cockerell) Homoptera: Diaspididae palm scale

111 Hippotion celerio (L.) Lepidoptera: Sphingidae taro sphinx-moth

112 Hypolimnas bolina (L.) Lepidoptera: Nymphalidae blue moon butterfly

276 Hysteroneura setariae (Thomas) Homoptera: Aphididae aphid

113 Icerya aegyptiaca (Douglas) Homoptera: Margarodidae Egyptian fluted scale

114 Icerya purchasi Maskell Homoptera: Margarodidae cottony cushion scale

260 Imperata conferta (Presl) Ohwi land plant, Poaceae blady grass

115 Ischnaspis longirostris (Signoret) Homoptera: Diaspididae black thread scale

116 Kallitaxila crini (Matsumura) Homoptera: Tropiduchidae green tropiduchid

117 Karnyothrips melaleuca (Bagnall) Thysanoptera: Thripidae thrips

118 Kilifia acuminata (Signoret) Homoptera: Coccidae acuminate scale

119 Lallemandana phalerata (Stål) Homoptera: Cercopidae spittlebug

120 Lamenia caliginea Stål Homoptera: Derbidae derbid planthopper

121 Lamenia numitor Fennah Homoptera: Derbidae derbid planthopper

122 Lampides boeticus (L.) Lepidoptera: Lycaenidae bean butterfly

123 Lamprosema diemenalis (Guenée) Lepidoptera: Pyralidae bean leaf-roller

261 Lantana camara L. land plant, Verbenaceae lantana

124 Lepidosaphes beckii (Newman) Homoptera: Diaspididae purple scale

125 Lepidosaphes esakii Takahashi Homoptera: Diaspididae armored scale

126 Lepidosaphes laterochitinosa Green Homoptera: Diaspididae armored scale

127 Lepidosaphes palauensis Beardsley Homoptera: Diaspididae Palau scale

128 Lepidosaphes similis Beardsley Homoptera: Diaspididae scale

129 Lepidosaphes tokionis (Kuwana) Homoptera: Diaspididae croton mussel scale

130 Lepidosaphes sp. Homoptera: Diaspididae scale

131 Leptocentrus taurus (F.) Homoptera: Membracidae eggplant horned

planthopper

132 Leptocorixa acuta (Thunberg) Hemiptera: Alydidae rice bug

133 Leptoglossus australis (F.) Hemiptera: Coreidae leaf-footed plant bug

134 Leptynoptera sulfurea Crawford Homoptera: Psyllidae kamani psyllid

262 Leucaena leucocephala (Lam.) de Wit land plant, Mimosaceae leucaena

135 Lipaphis erysimi (Kaltenbach) Homoptera: Aphididae turnip aphid

136 Liriomyza brassicae (Riley) Diptera: Agromyzidae cabbage serpentine

leafminer

ID Scientific name Classification Common name

137 Liriomyza sativae Blanchard Diptera: Agromyzidae vegetable leafminer

138 Locusta migratoria manilensis (Meyen) Orthoptera: Acrididae migratory locust

139 Lophothetes hirsuta Zimmerman Coleoptera: Curcullionidae short-nosed weevil

140 Lophothetes inusitata Zimmerman Coleoptera: Curcullionidae short-nosed weevil

142 Lophothetes sp. Coleoptera: Curcullionidae short-nosed weevil

143 Lophothetes sp. Coleoptera: Curcullionidae short-nosed weevil

144 Lophothetes sp. Coleoptera: Curcullionidae short-nosed weevil

141 Lophothetes vulgaris Zimmerman Coleoptera: Curcullionidae short-nosed weevil

145 Maconellicoccus hirsutus (Green) Homoptera: Pseudococcidae Egyptian hibiscus

mealybug

297 Mansonia uniformis (Theobald) Diptera: Culicidae mosquito

146 Marasmia trapezalis (Guenée) Lepidoptera: Pyralidae Maize leafroller

147 Marasmia venilialis (Walker) Lepidoptera: Pyralidae grass leaf-folder

148 Maruca testulalis (Geyer) Lepidoptera: Pyralidae bean pod borer

149 Melanaspis bromeliae (Leonardi) Homoptera: Diaspididae brown pineapple scale

150 Melanitis leda (L.) Lepidoptera: Satyridae evening brown butterfly

281 Merremia peltata L. Merrill land plant, Convolvulaceae vine

151 Mesohomotoma hibisci (Froggatt) Homoptera: Psyllidae hibiscus psyllid

152 Metriona circumdata (Herbst) Coleoptera: Chrysomelidae green tortoise beetle

263 Mikania scandens (L.) Willd. land plant, Asteraceae mile-a-minute vine

264 Mimosa (invisa) diplotricha C. Wright ex

Suavalle

land plant, Mimosaceae creeping sensitive plant

265 Miscanthus floridulus (Labill.) Warburg land plant, Poaceae sword grass

266 Momordica charantia L. land plant, Cucurbitaceae wild bitter melon

153 Myndus bifurcatus Metcalf Homoptera: Cixiidae planthopper

154 Myndus dibaphus Fennah Homoptera: Cixiidae planthopper

155 Myndus irreptor Fennah Homoptera: Cixiidae planthopper

156 Myndus palawanensis Muir Homoptera: Cixiidae planthopper

157 Mythimna loreyi (Duponchel) Lepidoptera: Noctuidae rice armyworm

158 Neomaskellia bergii (Signoret) Homoptera: Aleyrodidae sugarcane whitefly

159 Neotermes connexus Snyder Isoptera: Kalotermitidae forest tree termite

160 Nephotettix apicalis (Motschulsky) Homoptera: Cicadellidae green rice leafhopper

161 Nesophrosyne argentatus (Evans) Homoptera: Cicadellidae leafhopper

162 Nezara viridula (L.) Hemiptera: Pentatomidae southern green stink bug

163 Nymphula fluctuosalis Zeller Lepidoptera: Pyralidae rice caseworm

164 Nysius pulchellus (Stål) Hemiptera: Lygaeidae lygeid bug

165 Ophiomyia phaseoli (Tryon) Diptera: Agromyzidae bean fly

166 Orthotylellus pallescens Usinger Homoptera: Miridae mirid

ID Scientific name Classification Common name

167 Ostrinia furnacalis (Guenée) Lepidoptera: Pyralidae Asian corn borer

168 Oxycarenus bicolor Fieber Hemiptera: Lygaeidae stainer bug

169 Pagria signata (Motschulsky) Coleoptera: Chrysomelidae leaf beetle

267 Panicum maximum Jacquin land plant, Poaceae Guinea grass

170 Papilio polytes L. Lepidoptera: Papilionidae black citrus swallowtail

171 Paracoccus marginatus Williams Homoptera: Pseudococcidae papaya mealybug

172 Parasaissetia nigra (Nietner) Homoptera: Coccidae nigra scale

173 Parlatoria cinerea Hadden Homoptera: Diaspididae tropical grey chaff scale

174 Parlatoria proteus (Curtis) Homoptera: Diaspididae proteus scale

268 Passiflora foetida L. land plant, Passifloraceae wild passion fruit

175 Penicillaria jocosatrix Guenée Lepidoptera: Noctuidae mango shoot caterpillar

269 Pennisetum polystachyon (L.) Schultes land plant, Poaceae mission grass

176 Pentalonia nigronervosa Coquerel Homoptera: Aphididae banana aphid

177 Peregrinus maidis (Ashmead) Homoptera: Delphacidae corn planthopper

178 Pericyma cruegeri (Butler) Lepidoptera: Noctuidae poinciana looper

179 Perkinsiella thompsoni Muir Homoptera: Delphacidae sugarcane leafhopper

180 Phaneroptera furcifera Stål Orthoptera: Tettigoniidae Philippine katydid

282 Pheidole megacephala (F.) Hymenoptera: Formicidae bigheaded ant

181 Phenacaspis inday (Banks) Homoptera: Diaspididae inday scale

182 Phenacoccus madeirensis Green Homoptera: Pseudococcidae mealybug

183 Phyllocnistis citrella Stainton Lepidoptera: Phyllocnistidae citrus leaf miner

184 Phyllophaga bipunctata (Brenske) Coleoptera: Scarabaeidae Mindanao June beetle

185 Physomerus grossipes (F.) Hemiptera: Coreidae large spined-footed bug

186 Phytorus lineolatus Weise Coleoptera: Chrysomelidae phytorus leaf beetle

187 Piezodorus hybneri (Gmelin) Hemiptera: Pentatomidae shield bug

188 Pinnaspis buxi (Bouché) Homoptera: Diaspididae ti scale

190 Pinnaspis sp. Homoptera: Diaspididae white scale

189 Pinnaspis strachani (Cooley) Homoptera: Diaspididae lesser snow scale

270 Pistia stratiotes L. aquatic plant, Araceae water lettuce

191 Planococcus citri (Risso) Homoptera: Pseudococcidae citrus mealybug

192 Planococcus lilacinus (Cockerell) Homoptera: Pseudococcidae lilac mealybug

193 Planococcus pacificus Cox Homoptera: Pseudococcidae mealybug

194 Plutella xylostella (L.) Lepidoptera: Plutellidae diamondback moth

195 Polyphagotarsonemus latus (Banks) Acari: Tarsonemidae broad mite

196 Polytus mellerborgi (Boheman) Coleoptera: Curculionidae banana corm weevil

283 Pomacea canaliculata (Lamarck) aquatic invertebrate golden apple snail

197 Prays endocarpa Meyrick Lepidoptera: Yponomeutidae citrus rind borer

198 Proboscidocoris malayus Reuter Homoptera: Miridae mirid bug

ID Scientific name Classification Common name

199 Protaetia fusca (Herbst) Coleoptera: Scarabaeidae mango flower beetle

200 Protaetia orientalis (Gory & Percheron) Coleoptera: Scarabaeidae oriental flower beetle

201 Protalebrella braziliensis (Baker) Homoptera: Cicadellidae leafhopper

202 Proutista moesta (Westwood) Homoptera: Derbidae erect-winged blue

planthopper

203 Pseudaulacaspis pentagona (Targiona-

Tozzzetti)

Homoptera: Diaspididae white peach scale

204 Pseudococcus microadonidum Beardsley Homoptera: Pseudococcidae mealybug

205 Pseudoloxops bifasciatus (Usinger) Hemiptera: Miridae mirid bug

206 Pseudonapomyza spicata (Malloch) Diptera: Agromyzidae maize leafminer

284 Rattus norvegicus (Berkenhout) mammal Norway rat

285 Rattus rattus (L.) mammal ship rat

207 Rhabdoscelus obscurus (Boisduval) Coleoptera: Curculionidae new guinea sugarcane

weevil

208 Rhopalosiphum maidis (Fitch) Homoptera: Aphididae corn leaf aphid

209 Saccharicoccus sacchari (Cockerell) Homoptera: Pseudococcidae pink sugarcane mealybug

211 Saissetia coffeae (Walker) Homoptera: Coccidae hemispherical scale

212 Saissetia miranda (Cockerell & Parrott) Homoptera: Coccidae mexican black scale

213 Saissetia neglecta DeLotto Homoptera: Coccidae carribean black scale

214 Saissetia nigra (Nietner) Homoptera: Coccidae nigra scale

210 Saissetia oleae (Bernard) Homoptera: Coccidae black scale

215 Selenothrips rubrocinctus (Giard) Thysanoptera: Thripidae redbanded thrips

216 Sitophilus oryzae (L.) Coleoptera: Curculionidae rice weevil

217 Sogatella furcifera (Horváth) Homoptera: Delphacidae grass planthopper

286 Solenopsis geminata (F.) Hymenoptera: Formicidae tropical fire ant

271 Spathodea campanulata P. de Beauvois land plant, Bignoniaceae African tulip tree

218 Sphenarches caffer Zeller Lepidoptera: Pterophoridae plume moth

219 Spodoptera litura (F.) Lepidoptera: Noctuidae rice cutworm

220 Spodoptera mauritia Guenée Lepidoptera: Noctuidae lawn armyworm

221 Steatococcus samaraius Morrison Homoptera: Margarodidae steatococcus scale

222 Stenocatantops splendens (Thunberg) Orthoptera: Acrididae white-banded grasshopper

223 Sternochetus mangiferae (F.) Coleoptera: Curculionidae mango seed weevil

224 Sundapteryx biguttula (Ishida) Homoptera: Cicadellidae indian cotton jassid

225 Susumia exigua (Butler) Lepidoptera: Pyralidae rice leafroller

226 Swezeyaria viridana Metcalf Homoptera: Tropiduchidae planthopper

227 Swezeyia zephyrus Fennah Homoptera: Derbidae derbid hopper

228 Tarophagus proserpina (Kirkaldy) Homoptera: Delphacidae taro leafhopper

229 Teleogryllus oceanicus (Le Guill.) Orthoptera: Gryllidae oceanic field cricket

ID Scientific name Classification Common name

272 Tetraleurodes acaciae (Quaintance) Homoptera: Aleyrodidae whitefly

230 Tetranychus cinnabarinus (Boisduval) Acari: Tetranychidae carmine spider mite

231 Tetranychus neocaledonicus André Acari: Tetranychidae vegetable mite

232 Tetranychus sp. Acari: Tetranychidae spider mite

233 Tetranychus truncatus Ehara Acari: Tetranychidae spider mite

234 Tetranychus tumidus (Banks) Acari: Tetranychidae spider mite

235 Theretra pinastrina (Martyn) Lepidoptera: Sphingidae narrow-winged sphinx

moth

236 Thrips palmi Karny Thysanoptera: Thripidae melon thrips

237 Thrips tabaci Lindeman Thysanoptera: Thripidae onion thrips

238 Tiracola plagiata (Walker) Lepidoptera: Noctuidae cacao armyworm

239 Toxoptera aurantii (Boyer de Fonscolombe) Homoptera: Aphididae black citrus aphid

240 Toxoptera citricida (Kirkaldy) Homoptera: Aphididae brown citrus aphid

242 Trigonops hirsuta Zimmerman Coleoptera: Curculionidae weevil

243 Trigonops inusitata Zimmerman Coleoptera: Curculionidae weevil

241 Trigonops sp. Coleoptera: Curculionidae weevil

244 Trigonops vulgaris Zimmerman Coleoptera: Curculionidae weevil

245 Trissodoris guamensis Busck Lepidoptera: Cosmopterigidae moth

246 Trochorhopalus strangulatus (Gyllenhal) Coleoptera: Curculionidae strangulate weevil

247 Ugyops annulipes (Stål) Homoptera: Delphacidae delphacid planthopper

248 Valanga excavata Stål Orthoptera: Acrididae large short-horn

grasshopper

249 Xyleborus ferrugineus (F.) Coleoptera: Curculionidae black twig borer

250 Xyleborus morigerus Blandford Coleoptera: Curculionidae black twig borer

251 Xyleborus perforans (Wollaston) Coleoptera: Curculionidae coconut shot-hole borer

252 Xyleborus similis Ferrari Coleoptera: Curculionidae shot-hole borer

253 Zanchius fragilis Usinger Hemiptera: Miridae mirid bug

2. Government departments/agencies and experts concerned with IAS

⇒

Contact for foreign imports of agricultural products

Dallas Berringer

Director for Guam and Commonwealth of the Northern Marianas Islands

United States Department of Agriculture, Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service

Plant Protection & Quarantine Program

P.O. Box 8769, Tamuning, Guam 96931

Tel: (671) 647 6030, Fax: (671) 647 6029, Cell: (671) 777 6029

Email: [email protected]

⇒

Contact for agricultural quarantine matters

Russell K. Campbell, Ph.D.,

Entomologist and Chief, Plant Protection & Quarantine

Guam Department of Agriculture

Mangilao, Guam 96913

Tel: (671) 472 5812, Fax: (671) 477 9487, Cell: (671) 687 9786

Email: [email protected]

⇒

Contact for aquatic, marine and wildlife issues

Gerald W. Davis

Chief, Division of Aquatic and Wildlife Resources

Guam Department of Agriculture

Mangilao, Guam 96913

Tel: (671) 735 3979, Fax: (671) 734 6570

⇒

Contact for forestry and soil related issues

David T. Limtiaco

Chief, Division of Forestry and Soil Resources

Guam Department of Agriculture

Mangilao, Guam 96913

Tel: (671) 735 3949, Fax: (671) 734 0111

⇒

Contact for biological control of insect pests

Ross Miller, Ph.D.

Professor of Entomology

College of Agriculture and Life Sciences

University of Guam, UOG Station

Mangilao, Guam 96923

Tel: (671) 735 2141, Fax: (671) 734 4600

Email: rm[email protected]

⇒

Contact for biological control of weeds and insect pests

R. Muniappan, Ph.D.

Professor Emeritus of Entomology

College of Agriculture and Life Sciences

University of Guam, UOG Station

Mangilao, Guam 96923

Tel: (671) 735 2142, Fax: (671) 734 4600

Email: rm[email protected]

⇒

Contact for brown tree snake program and other federal wildlife issues

Daniel S. Vice

Assistant State Director

United States Department of Agriculture, Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service

Wildlife Services

1060 Route 16 Suite 103C

Barrigada Heights Guam 96913

Tel: (671) 635 4400, Fax: (671) 635 4401

Email: [email protected]

3. Bibliographic references

Muniappan, R., J. Cruz, and J.Bamba. 2002. Invasive plants and their control in Micronesia. Pages 85-

92 in R. Muniappan & R.Campbell. (eds.). Invasive species and their management. Micronesica

Suppl. 135pp.

Nafus, D.M. 1997. An insect survey of the Federated States of Micronesia and Palau. Secretariat of the

Pacific Community. South Pacific Commission, Technical Paper 210. 55 pp.

Ward, R.A. 1984. Mosquito Fauna of Guam: Case history of an introduced fauna. Pages 143-165 in

M.Laird, ed. Commerce and the spread of pests and disease vectors. Praeger Scientific, New

York. 354 pp.

Hawai’i

Mr. Michael G. Buck

Administrator

Hawai'i Division of Forestry & Wildlife

1151 Punchbowl Street, Room 325

Honolulu, Hawai'i 96813

Tel: (808) 587 0166

Fax: (808) 587 0160

E-mail:

[email protected]

Introduction

The “silent invasion” of Hawai’i by insects, disease organisms, snakes, weeds, and other pests is the

single greatest threat to Hawai'i's economy and natural environment and to the health and lifestyle of

Hawai'i's people. Pests already cause millions of dollars in crop losses, the extinction of native species,

the destruction of native forests, and the spread of disease. But many more harmful pests now threaten

to invade Hawai'i and wreak further damage. Even one new pest--like the brown tree snake (Boiga

irregularis)--could forever change the character of our islands. Stopping the influx of new pests and

containing their spread is essential to Hawai'i's future well being.

Despite the efforts of more than 20 State, federal, and private agencies, unwanted alien pests are

entering Hawai'i at an alarming rate. In 1993, the federal Office of Technology Assessment (OTA)

declared Hawai'i's alien pest species problem the worst in the nation. Hawai'i's evolutionary isolation

from the continents, and its modern role as the commercial hub of the Pacific make these islands

particularly vulnerable to destruction by alien pests. Gaps in current pest prevention systems and a lack

of public awareness add further to this serious problem. New partnerships are finding ways to fill in the

gaps between agency mandates and insufficient State funding.

1. Summary of existing strategy and programs on IAS

1.1 Leadership and coordination

In May, 2002 the Governor of Hawai'i signed an Executive Order forming the Hawai'i Invasive Species

Council (HISC). The members of HISC will include a representative from the Governor’s office and the

chairs from the Hawai'i State agencies, and the President of the University of Hawai'i, with other

members of government, profit and non-profit sectors invited to participate by consensus of the

Council. This group will provide executive level leadership for invasive species issues in Hawai'i.

Voluntary coordination on a staff level takes place within the Coordinating Group on Alien Pest Species

that has spent the last several years developing projects to improve Hawai'i's response to IAS.

1.2 Prevention

The Hawai'i Department of Agriculture acquired a $300,000 grant from the U.S. Federal Aviation

Administration to conduct an Airport Risk Assessment at Kahului, Maui. Inspection activities for

incoming aircraft were dramatically increased during seven inspection blitzes lasting three-four weeks:

these led to the discovery that 125 insect species new to Hawai'i had arrived with cargo. There were

1,401 interceptions during this period compared to the 782 interceptions recorded during normal

inspection activities each year for the entire state.

A Weed Risk Assessment system adapted from the West Australian system has been developed and

applied to a local tree-planting guide. The results were presented to local plant industry members. A

resolution adopting a code of conduct for growing and imported plants is expected later this year.

1.3 Early detection and rapid response

Island Invasive Species Committees (ISCs) have been developed on all of the main Hawaiian Islands.

These groups are partnerships between State, Federal and private groups that eradicate incipient

invasive species and provide effective control for other spreading established species. These groups

along with agencies charged with conservation and land management are working to increase the

effectiveness of spending to control IAS. Current funding levels for these programs is approximately

$1.5 million.

1.4 Control and management

Statewide control of Miconia - the greatest plant threat to Hawaiian forests – has been carried out over

more than 600,000 acres during the past 18 months. For other widespread IAS, a total of 20 biocontrol

projects have been carried out by the Hawai'i Department of Agriculture. Many additional projects are

planned by a Biocontrol Working Group whose goal is to expand the effort to more wild-land weeds.

1.5 Restoration

Hawai'i’s two large National Parks along with the State Department of Land and Natural Resources,

and private groups such as The Nature Conservancy of Hawai'i are working to restore land. Recently

Watershed Partnerships have been formed that include these groups as well as adjacent landowners in

an attempt to improve landscape-scale management and preserve intact and functioning forests. There

are now partnerships on every island.

1.6 International cooperation

In 2002, State officials from the Hawai'i Department of Agriculture and representatives from the

Coordinating Group on Alien Pest Species travelled to New Zealand to tour quarantine and inspection

facilities. Application of the Weed Risk Assessment benefited from the expertise of Australian officials

who helped present the system to local plant industry representatives. Hawai'i’s Brown Tree Snake

prevention program relies on site-of-origin federal inspections at military bases throughout the Pacific.

1.7 Research

The Research Corporation of the University of Hawai'i has been able to provide an umbrella

organization for hiring field staff for the Invasive Species Committees as well as supporting research on

alien pest species. Local Pacific Island Ecosystem Research Center staff continue to support IAS

research and collaborative projects, such as biocontrol research, with institutions in the countries where

our IAS originate.

1.8 Information management and public outreach

The Coordinating Group on Alien Pest Species sponsored a Public Information and Outreach specialist

for the state this year. The specialist has drafted a summary of Hawai'i's needs to address IAS and

provide direction to outreach efforts. Public attention to IAS issues has been high due to the rapid

spread of the extraordinarily loud Coqui frog and the loss of public access to a popular freshwater

fishing reservoir due to an infestation of giant water fern (Salvinia molesta).

2. Government departments/agencies and experts concerned with IAS

⇒

United States Department of the Interior Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS)

Dr. Earl Campbell

United States Department of the Interior

Fish and Wildlife Service

Pacific Islands Fish and Wildlife Office

300 Ala Moana Boulevard, Room 3-122

Box 50088, Honolulu, Hawai'i 96850, USA

Tel: (808) 792 9400

Fax: (808) 792 9580

Email: [email protected]

⇒

APHIS/PPQ

Ms. Carol Russell

Tel: (808) 541 1980

Fax: (808) 541 1978

Email: [email protected]

⇒

Department of Land and Natural Resources: Division of Forestry and Wildlife

The Hawai'i Department of Land and Natural – Division of Forestry and Wildlife manages 800,000

acres of public land for watershed protection, forestry, conservation, public hunting and recreation.

The Division was formed 99 years ago to address the loss of forests to land uses, feral animals and

their resultant impact on the state’s water supply for agriculture and human consumption. Current

efforts to address invasive species include funding Invasive Species Committees and landscape

level Watershed Partnerships. The urban forestry program is working with the horticulture industry

and the US Forest Service to develop a weed risk assessment to prevent new IAS from being

introduced through forestry or the nursery trade. Predator control of rats, cats, and mongoose occurs

in natural areas that support rare and endangered native birds and in coastal areas that support

seabird colonies. Introduced game mammals and birds are managed through public hunting

programs and funding fencing and control projects to exclude animals from conservation areas.

Mr. Michael G. Buck, Administrator

Hawai'i Division of Forestry & Wildlife

1151 Punchbowl Street, Room 325

Honolulu, Hawai'i 96813

Tel: (808) 587 0166

Fax: (808) 587 0160

Email: [email protected]

Mindy Wilkinson

Tel: (808) 587 0164

Fax: (808) 587 0160

Email: [email protected]

⇒

Hawai'i Department of Agriculture (HDOA)

Dr. Lyle Wong

Plant Industry Administrator

Hawai'i Department of Agriculture

1428 South King Street

Honolulu, Hawai'i 9681

Tel: (808) 973 9535

Fax: (808) 973 9533

Email: [email protected]

Mr. Neil Reimer

Tel: (808) 832 0566

Fax: (808) 832 0584

Email: [email protected]

Mr. Domingo Cravalho

Hawai'i Department of Agriculture Plant Quarantine

Tel: (808) 832 0577

Fax: (808) 832 0584

Email: [email protected]

⇒

U.S. Geological Survey (USGS)

Dr. Lloyd Loope

U.S.G.S. Biological Resources Division

P.O. Box 369, Makawao

Hawai'i 96768

Tel: (808) 572 4470

Fax: (808) 572 1304

Email: [email protected]

⇒

The Nature Conservancy

Ms. Alenka Remec

Conservation Projects Director

The Nature Conservancy of Hawai'i

923 Nuuanu Avenue,

Honolulu

Hawai'i 96817

Tel: (808) 537 4508, ext 243

Fax: (808) 545 2019

Email: [email protected]

Mr. Mark Fox

Email: [email protected]

Tel: (808) 587 6234

⇒

Bishop Museum

Dr. Lu Eldredge

Pacific Science Association

Bishop Museum

1525 Bernice Street

Honolulu, Hawai'i 96817

Tel: (808) 848 4139

Fax: (808) 848 8252

Email: [email protected]

⇒

University of Hawai'i

Dr. Celia Smith

Email: [email protected]

⇒

Maui Invasive Species Committee

Ms. Teya Penniman

Tel: 579 2115

Fax: 579 2119

Email: [email protected]

⇒

CGAPS/ISC

Ms. Christy Martin

Tel: (808) 973 2936

Fax: (808) 722 0995

Email: [email protected]

⇒

Useful websites

Hawaiian Ecosystems at Risk Project (HEAR)

http://www.hear.org

Pacific Island Ecosystems at Risk (PIER)

http://www.hear.org/pier/index.html

Hawai'i's Most Invasive Horticultural Plants

http://www.state.hi.us/dlnr/dofaw/hortweeds/

Republic of the Marshall Islands

Dr. Nancy Vander Velde

Biological Consultant

P. O. Box 1603

Majuro, MH 96960

E-mail: [email protected]

Illustrations © Nancy Vander Velde

Introduction

⇒

Location and characteristics

The Republic of the Marshall Islands is made up of 29 atolls

and 5 solitary coral islands, comprised of approximately

1,225 individual islands and islets. They are situated from

approximately 160 degrees to 173 degrees longitude East,

and 4 degrees and 14 degrees latitude North. They cover

750,000 square miles of the Central Pacific Ocean, but their

combined land area is only about 73 square miles: in other

words, they are 99.99% water.

The average elevation of the islands is about 7 feet above

sea level. The climate is tropical, the air temperature ranging

between 76 and 90 degrees Fahrenheit (average 82 degrees).

Rainfall ranges from 160 or more inches a year in the south,

to very little (and in some years, none at all) in the north. Tropical storms are rare, but when they do hit,

the effects are devastating. In the context of IAS, this could actually be beneficial (see below).

Aside from material such as pumice or volcanic rock lodged in the roots of a floating log, which

occasionally drifts in, all the land is biologically derived.

Only about 85 species of plants are considered to be native. There is only one native

resident land bird: all other birds are resident or migrant shore or sea birds. There are

no native land mammals, 18 species of native lizards, and probably only a few

hundred - or fewer - native insects and other land invertebrates.

In contrast, the sea is rich, with over 1000 species of fishes, hundreds of corals and

other invertebrates and numerous cetaceans.

Most of this background information is based on NBTRMI. 2000. The Marshall Islands- Living Atolls Amidst the Living Sea.

The land is considered to have been sufficiently stabilized to allow human habitation only around 2000

years ago. From the start, inhabitants made changes in the environment. About two dozen species of

plants were probably introduced either intentionally or inadvertently. These probably included several

species of weeds, such as the beach morning glory (Ipomoea littoralis), and the only resident snake, the

Brahminy blind snake (Ramphotyphlops braminus, see above) which came with the soil of useful plants

such as giant swamp taro (Cyrtosperma chamissonis, see right) and breadfruit (Artocarpus spp.).

Less information is available about aboriginal introductions of marine species,

although there is some indication that this may have occurred. Legend tells of the

orbiculate cardinal fish (Sphaeramis orbicularis, see left) being brought in from

the mythical land of "Eap."

In the late 1800s, Germany began extensive trade with the atolls of the Marshall

Islands, with copra as the major commodity. Eventually, a regional capital was

established on Jabwor Island, Jaluit Atoll and many new species of plants and animals were introduced.

When the Japanese took over the administration of the country, more species were brought in, including

a number known to be invasive.

World War II brought another change of administration. The Americans transferred the capital from

Jaluit to Majuro, where it has remained. There is also a military base on Kwajalein Atoll. With modern

air transportation to the international airports on these atolls, the rate of introductions of new species has

not only continued but also accelerated.

⇒

Nuclear Testing Program

No discussion of the Marshall Islands is complete without a consideration of the nuclear testing

program. Between 1946 and 1958, 67 nuclear devices were detonated at Bikini and Enewetak Atolls.

One of these, which was codenamed "Bravo," was the biggest explosion of any device up to that time.

This 15-megaton blast literally vaporized islands and left fall-out in its wake that contaminated several

nearby atolls. The inhabitants of Rongelap and Utdrik had to be quickly evacuated.

The immediate environmental impacts of these tests were obviously intense and unfortunately, the

atolls were too “hot” to allow much scientific work to be done soon afterwards. As soon as feasible,

though, teams of scientists came in to document the changes. Even

years later, environmental after-effects have been noted.

Most of the studies have dealt with the impact on humans. Coconut

crabs (Birgus latro, see right) are a popular traditional food of the

Marshallese people, but they have some of the highest buildups of

radiation.

One species about which local people have expressed concern is the

Polynesian arrowroot (Tacca leonpetaloides,see left). Anecdotal

reports consistently state that before the nuclear testing program, it

was healthier and produced larger corms. To date, however, no

thorough scientific investigative study has been made.

The limited studies carried out on birds, fishes, other animals, and

plants have shown generally that the aftereffects are no longer

significant. But further study is probably still warranted because so

many questions still remain unanswered.

⇒

Climate change

In recent years, climate change has become a high profile environmental issue in the

Marshall Islands. Many people equate climate change with sea level rise and because of the

low elevation of the Marshall Islands, this has generated significant concern. Sea level rise

has been documented in the Marshalls, but not to the extent that the average person can

detect it.

However, the other manifestations of climate change could actually pose as great a risk in

their own right. If the sea temperature were to rise by less than 2° F., coral bleaching and

die-off could occur. If the coral died, the reef would not be able to provide any protection

against sea level rise.

Similarly, climate change could mean more El Niño generated storms and subsequent

droughts. These have already had serious impacts on the food crops of some of the outer

islands, causing valuable coconut trees (see right) to die. These storms and droughts could

also lead to contamination of the all-important underground freshwater resources.

1. Main IAS in the Marshall Islands

With attention usually focused on more spectacular threats to the environment, IAS have often been

ignored. But their threat is real and unlike nuclear fall-out, they do not have a known half-life rate at

which they will dissipate on their own. As has been well documented in many other studies around the

world, when a biological invasion occurs, the environmental impacts may be irreversible.

1.1 Preliminary list of IAS

In a preliminary list of IAS of the Marshall Islands (see table), over eighty species were found to be of

significance. This list is of course subjective, but includes several species which were not known to be

in the Marshall Islands when the National Biodiversity Report was done in 1998-2000.

Significant IAS of the Marshall Islands

Invasive alien mammals

Canis familiaris

domestic dog

Felis catus

domestic cat

Mus musculus

house mouse

Rattus norvegicus

Norway rat

Rattus rattus

ship rat

Suncus murinus (?) house shrew

Sus scrofa

domestic pig

Invasive alien birds

Passer montanus

Eurasian tree sparrow

Pycnonotus cafer

red-vented bulbul

Invasive alien reptiles

Anole carolinensis

green anole

Chamaeleo jacksonii

Jackson's chameleon

Invasive alien fishes

Gambusia affinis

Western mosquito fish

Invasive alien insects

Aleurodictus dispersus

spiraling whitefly

Anoplolepus gracilipes

long-legged ant

Aonidiella inornata

inornate scale

Aspidiotus destructor

coconut scale

Bactrocera frauenfeldi

mango fruitfly

Dysmicoccus brevipes

pineapple mealybug

Dysmicoccus cocotis

mealybug

Furcaspis oceanica

coconut red scale

Icerya egyptiaca

Egyptian fluted scale

Musa domesitica

housefly

Palmicultor palmarum

palm mealybug

Pseudococcus orchidicola

orchid mealybug

Pulvinaria psidii

green shield scale

Pulvinaria urbicola

urbicola soft scale

Invasive terrestrial invertebrates (other

than insects)

Tetranychus spp. spider mites

Actina fulica

giant African snail

Invasive marine invertebrates

Obelia spp. hydroids

Invasive alien plants

Antigonon leptopus

chain-of-love

Asystasia gangetica

Chinese violet

Bidens pilosa

beggar's ticks

Bothriochloa bladhii

blue grass

Casuarina equisetifolia

she oak

Cenchrus brownii

burr grass

Cenchrus echinatus

burr grass

Chloris barbata

swollen fingergrass

Chromolaena odorata

Siam weed

Clerodendrum quadriloculare

bronze-leaf cherodendrum

Chrysopogon aciculatus

Mackie's pest

Coccinia grandis

ivy gourd

Cuscuta campestris

golden dodder

Cynodon dactylon

Bermuda grass

Cyperus lingularis

rocket sedge

Desmodium incanum

Spanish clover

Digitaria ciliaris

Henry's crabgrass

Digitaria insularis

cottongrass

Eleusine indica

goosegrass

Kyllinga brevifolia

green water sedge

Kyllinga nemoralis

white water sedge

Lantana camara

Lantana

Leucaena leucocephala

tangan-tangan

Merremia peltata

Merremia

Moringa oleifera

horseradish tree

Paspalum diticum

salt grass

Paspalum conjugatum

T-grass

Pennisetum polystachion

mission grass

Pennisetum purpureum

elephant grass

Pluchea carolinensis

sour bush

Pluchea indica

Indian fleabane

Ricinus communis

castor bean

Sporobolus indicus

Indian dropseed

Stachytarpheta cayennensis

deep blue rat's tail

Stachytarpheta jamaicensis

blue rat's tail

Tecoma stans

yellow bells

Tradescantia spathacea

Moses-in-a-boat

Turnera ulmifolia

yellow elder

Wedelia (=Sphagneticola) trilobata

Singapore daisy

Invasive alien algae

Cephaleuros virenscens

algal leaf spot red rust

Sargassum duplicatum

sargassum kelp

Invasive alien fungi of plants

Cercospora ipomoeae

leaf spot

Cercospora taccae

Polynesian arrowroot blight

Cochliobolus heterostrophus

southern leaf blight

Corynespora cassiicola

leaf spot

Elsinoe sacchari

white rash

Glomerella cingulata

dieback, fruit rot

Mycosphaerella fijiensis

black sigatoka, black leaf streak

Oidium sp. powdery mildew

Pestalotiopsis palmarum

grey leaf spot

Pseudoepicoccum cocus

brown leaf spot

Rhizoctonia sp. leaf rot, web blight

Uromyces vignae

rust

Invasive alien animal/human pathogens

dengue virus dengue fever virus

Entamoeba histolytica

dysentery amoeba

Giardia lamblia

giardia protozoa

As noted, this table includes a few known IAS that were not known to be in the Marshall Islands when

the National Biodiversity Report was compiled and which could spread rapidly if prompt mitigation

measures are not put in place. Three examples are given below.

Siam weed (Chromolaena odorata, see left) is a

major pest in Guam and other areas of Micronesia. A

small patch of this plant was located near the village

of Laura in late 2001 by a visiting pest expert. Since

it has a resemblance to the native beach sunflower

(Wollansia biflora), it is unlikely that most people

would have recognized it. An effort is being made to

eradicate it, but it is too soon to know if this will

succeed.

Another recent arrival is the red-vented bulbul

(Pycononus cafer, see right). It is unknown how this

bird was introduced, but as it was first sighted in

2000 near the major commercial dock of Majuro and

has been known to hitchhike on ships in other areas,

it would seem logical that the bird also came to the

Marshall Islands in this way. The bird now seems to

have become well entrenched with at least several

breeding populations (Vander Velde 2002).

Immediately after the GISP Austral-Pacific

Workshop on Prevention and Management of IAS

(Hawai'i, 15-17 October 2002), another IAS was

detected. The local radio station ran a news story

about the GISP Workshop on 23 October 2002. That

very afternoon, information and digital photos of a

chameleon, probably a Jackson's chameleon

(Chamaeleo jacksonii, see left) were sent to the

author. Both participants at the GISP Workshop

were notified. By the next day, the story was on the

radio and the photo and article were printed in the

Marshall Islands Journal (MIJ 2002).

1.2 Advantages and disadvantages of atolls with regard to biological invasions

In a sense, all the atolls - and even all the small islands - of the Marshall Islands, have built-in

quarantines. Most terrestrial species, including IAS, do not easily travel on their own from one

landmass to the next.

Another factor that limits the spread of species is the constant battering of the land by salt-laden winds.

Many plants, in particular, just cannot survive in this environment.

As undesirable and devastating as tropical cyclonic storms are to low-lying atolls, they have served in

the past as a natural “reset” button for the environment. Jaluit Atoll, which had been the center of many

alien plants for decades, was ravaged in the late 1960s by a series of typhoons. Now, only a few of

those alien plants remain and none of these are considered to be invasive.

On the other hand, the atoll environment is also sufficiently

different from the experience of high, volcanic islands to make it

hard to predict what will happen when a new species is introduced.

A good example is that of the showy garden plant, Turnera

ulmifolia (see right). In other areas of Micronesia, it has remained

a fairly docile species, but it has become a major IAS in the

Marshall Islands.

More recently, the American blueheart (Buchera americana)

and the green anole (Anole carolinensis, see left) have

appeared. They are spreading rapidly and showing undesirable

invasive characteristics. They should be monitored or, better

yet, eradicated before they spread any further.

Because the Marshall Islands have such a high percentage of ocean, they are

highly vulnerable to marine IAS. A few have been identified so far and further

study will undoubtedly reveal many more. The well-known fouling hydroid,

Obelia spp. (see right) is considered to have been inadvertently introduced

during the nuclear testing program.

Another possible marine invasive is the brown kelp, Sargassum duplicatum.

Traditional thinking was that sargassums are not to be found on any atoll of the

Marshall Islands (Tsuda 1976). Yet both the author and one of the instructors

at the College of the Marshall Islands have collected specimens of S.

duplicatum from Majuro lagoon.

2. Summary of existing strategy and programs on IAS

There is no formal coordination mechanism for action on IAS. However, a tentative Invasive Weeds

Task Force has been set up following the visit of Konrad Englberger (South Pacific Commission Plant

Protection Programme, Pohnpei) to work on the weed poster (see 2.2 below). This task force is still

very much in its infancy.

2.1 Eradication and control programs

In the past, only a limited amount of effort has been done in controlling or eradicating IAS. Fosberg

(1955) reports that on Likiep Atoll, the star-of-Bethlehem (Hippobroma longiflora) was established in

1946. The residents were informed of the noxious nature of this plant and on a subsequent visit five

years later, none of this species were seen, and it seems to be gone from the entire country.

As mentioned above, an effort is underway to rid the country of Siam weed (Chromoleana odorata)

before it spreads.

The Division of Agriculture has under taken a program to control the destructive

spiraling whitefly (Aleurodictus dispersus) and the coconut scale (Aspidiotus

destructor). Predators were brought in, a technique which always carries its own

risks, but seems to be working so far.

2.2 Public awareness

In the past, public awareness of the dangers of IAS has been

limited. The National Biodiversity Report of the Republic of the

Marshall Islands, which is now being distributed and is due to be

adopted as part of the public school curriculum, identifies the

problem clearly. Some items in the local newspaper in recent

months have also highlighted the problem. A large colorful

poster, Mar Ko Renana ilo Marshall Islands. Invasive Weed

Species In Marshall Islands, has just been released. This should

help promote some public awareness to the problem: ten of the

most problematic species, such as beggar's tick (Bidens pilosa,

see left) are included. However, there certainly are more than ten

species that should be of concern.

Without stronger public awareness, it is unlikely that measures to control the spread of IAS will be

taken. In a recent survey of the flora of Majuro, 563 species were identified. Of these, only 56 were

figured to be native: many more than that figure had the potential to become invasive. (Thaman and

Vander Velde 2002). However, without any means for intra-island quarantine, the spread to the outer

island of many of these species, especially the attractive decorative plants and the plants otherwise

considered to be useful, seems inevitable.

3. Government departments/agencies concerned with IAS

In the Republic of the Marshall Islands, the two principal agencies concerned with IAS are:

⇒

Quarantine (Ministry of Resources and Development)

The delegate to the GISP Austral-Pacific Workshop was:

Mr. Frederick Muller

Secretary of Resources and Development

Ministry of Resources & Development

Government of Marshall Islands

P.O. Box 1727, Majuro, MH 96960

Tel: (692) 625 3206/4020

Fax: (692) 625 7471

Email: [email protected]

⇒

Marshall Islands Environmental Protection Authority (RMIEPA)

The Marshall Islands Biodiversity Team, which is coordinated by the RMIEPA, has been most

active in dealing with IAS. The National Biodiversity Report, The Marshall Islands -- Living Atolls

Amidst the Living Sea, and the accompanying National Biodiversity Strategy and Action Plan, are

the best documents available which discuss IAS.

The delegate to the GISP Austral-Pacific Workshop was:

Mr. John Bungitak

General Manager

Environmental Protection Authority

P.O. Box 1322, Majuro, Marshall Islands 96960

Tel: (692) 625 3035

Fax: (692) 625 5202

Email: [email protected]

⇒

Other agencies affected by the impacts of IAS

Division of Agriculture of the Ministry of Resources and Development; Customs and Revenue;

Marshall Islands Marine Resources Authority; Marshall Islands Visitor Authority; Public Health,

Ministry of Transportation and Communication; Marshall Islands Airport Authority; Historic

Preservation Authority; and the various local governments.

Funding and manpower available for combating the problem of IAS in all of these agencies is

limited.

The College of the Marshall Islands has a number of instructors who are concerned about IAS.

4. Conclusion

IAS in the Marshall Islands have long been ignored, but as they become more and more prevalent, they

are showing that they need to be dealt with. While IAS have often been given a lower priority compared

with better-known environmental issues such as the nuclear testing program and climate change, it is

becoming apparent that IAS are complicating features of these other environmental problems.

Now that clean-up projects are underway on some of the irradiated atolls, these projects bring with them

the possibility of introducing many IAS.

As the climate changes, that means more niches for alien species to take hold. The ones that will

probably come in to fill these new niches are most likely going to be the more aggressive species or

IAS.

5. Bibliographic references

Fosberg, F.R. 1955. Northern Marshall Islands Expedition, 1951-1952. Land biota: Vascular plants.

Atoll Research Bulletin, No.39, pp. 1-22.

Lowe, S., M. Browne and S.Boudjelas. 2000. 100 of the world's worst invasive species. Aliens 12;

ISSG (www.issg.org

)

Marshall Islands Invasive Weed Task Force, 2002. Mar Ko Renana ilo Marshall Islands. Invasive Weed

Species in Marshall Islands. AusAid/South Pacific Commission.

Marshall Islands Journal (MIJ) 2002. October 25, 2002; November 1, 2002.

National Biodiversity Team of the Republic of the Marshall Islands (NBTRMI) 2000. The Marshall

Islands - Living Atolls Amidst the Living Sea. National Biodiversity Report. Marshall Islands:

Government of the Marshall Islands.

Pacific Southwest Research Station, Institute of Pacific Islands Forestry, 2002. Pacific Islands

Ecosystems at Risk. PIER-CD.

Personal communication with personnel at Majuro Hospital.

Thaman, R.R. and N. Vander Velde 2002. Comprehensive listing of the vascular flora of Majuro. Draft

manuscript.

Tsuda, R.T. 1976. Occurrence of the Genus Sargassum (Phyaeophyta) on Two Pacific Atolls.

Micronesica 12(2): 279-282

Vander Velde, N. 2002. The red-vented bulbul has come to Micronesia. Aliens 16:13-14.

Federated States of Micronesia

No report has been submitted.

The delegate to the GISP Austral-Pacific Workshop was:

Mr. Ishmael Lebehn

Deputy Assistant Secretary

Agriculture Unit

Department of Economic Affairs

P.O. Box PS-12

Palikir Station, Pohnpei, FSM 96941

Federated States of Micronesia

Tel: (691) 320 2646

Fax: (691) 320 5854

Email: [email protected]

Nauru

No report has been submitted.

The delegates to the GISP Austral-Pacific Workshop were:

Mr. Pene Agadio

Environment Officer

Department of Industry & Economic Development

Main Government Offices

Yaren District

Republic of Nauru

Tel: (674) 444 3133 ext 309

Fax: (674) 444 3891

Email: [email protected]

Mr. Tyrone Deiye

Director of Economic Development

Department of Industry & Economic Development

Main Government Offices

Yaren District

Republic of Nauru

Tel: (674) 444 3133 (ext 309)

Fax: (674) 444 3891

Email: [email protected]

New Zealand

Dr. Abdul Moeed

Senior Scientific Advisor (New Organisms)

ERMA New Zealand (Environmental Risk Management Authority)

P.O. Box 131

Wellington

New Zealand

E-mail: abdul.moeed@ermanz.govt.nz

Introduction

New organisms have come to New Zealand in several ways. Some, such as birds, insects, and microbes,

have been self introduced, mainly from Australia. Others have been assisted by humans either

intentionally (legally or illegally imported) or unintentionally as passenger and/or associated organisms.

Some new organism hybrids or varieties have been created in New Zealand by traditional plant and

animal breeding techniques or through genetic modification (GM). The cost of introduced weeds and

pests [e.g. hieracium (Hieracium spp.), old man’s beard (Clematis vitalba), brushtail possum

(Trichosurus vulpecula), European rabbit (Oryctolagus cuniculus), stoat (Mustela erminea), wasp

(Vespula spp.), microbes (e.g. powdery mildew Podosphaera leucotricha)] is considerable to New

Zealand.

Possible implications of hybridisation between crops and wild plants are difficult to predict at the best

of times because it may take decades before adverse effects become apparent. According to Williams

and Lee (2001), New Zealand is one of the few countries in the world with databases of its entire flora,

both cultivated and wild, including the important stage of naturalisation, i.e. forming self-sustaining

populations in the wild. An analysis of nursery catalogues indicating when a plant species was first

offered for sale in New Zealand, and the time a species was first collected as an established population

in the wild, gives an indication of the time between importation and establishment. The average period

for bird-dispersed woody species was about 50 years after introduction. From the above it is apparent

that it may be a long time before the potential for likely adverse effects of an introduced plant can be

realised.

It is noted that in less than 150 years, the size of the national flora of New Zealand has increased more

than tenfold through the importation and establishment of alien plant species. Approximately 10% of

the world’s flowering plants are growing here, on a land area comprising less than 0.2% of the world’s

total. The rate of entry into New Zealand of alien plant species, based on the time since European

settlement and the size of the alien flora (domestic and naturalised) has been approximately one species

every two days, or 144 species per year. From this pool there are likely to be 3-5 potential new

agricultural or environmental weeds per year, based on the proportion of species that have naturalised

so far (Williams and Lee 2001).

1. Legislative framework for assessing “new organisms”

The Hazardous Substances and New Organisms (HSNO) Act provides a framework for assessment and

approval of applications to import, develop, field test, or release microorganisms, plants and animals

that are new organisms including genetically modified organisms (GMOs). The Act focuses on effects

of new organisms on people and the environment. The purpose of the Act is to protect the environment,

and the health and safety of people and communities, by preventing or managing the adverse effects of

hazardous substances and new organisms (section 4).

In achieving the purpose, there are principles to be recognised and provided for, for example,

safeguarding of the life-supporting capacity of air, water, soil, and ecosystems; and maintenance and

enhancement of the capacity of people and communities to provide for their own economic, social, and

cultural wellbeing and for the reasonably foreseeable needs of future generations (section 5). While

assessing effects the decision making Authority is required to use a consistent methodology (section 9).

The decision making Authority is required to take into account the need for caution in managing

adverse effects where there is scientific and technical uncertainty about those effects (section 7). The

Act requires that assessment of applications always take place. In making a decision on new organisms,

the Act requires the Authority to consider what could be called an environmental bottom line in the

form of minimum standards (section 36).

2. Process for risk assessment

Given the need for an assessment, it is also important to recognise that not all new organisms require

the same level of scrutiny. The level of assessment should therefore be based on the level of risk. In this

context, risk is concerned with the potential of an organism to have a detrimental impact for example on

economic activity, human health, or the environment generally.

Flexibility is important. The HSNO Act provides a two-tiered approach for import and release of all

new organisms; a rapid assessment process for those new organisms that are low risk (section 35) and a

full assessment process for those that do not qualify for low risk consideration (sections 37 and 38).

In some cases when an application is received to import a new organism into New Zealand it will be

recognised very quickly that the organism either poses unacceptable risks from pests, parasites, or

diseases, or that it has significant environmental risks associated with it which are too great to allow its

presence in New Zealand. However, in most cases an application is likely to lie in the grey area

between the obviously unacceptable and the absolutely no risk. In these cases a weighing-up of risk and

benefit is necessary.

It is important to be able to connect these criteria with the information that is available on the biological

characteristics of the organism. For plants, this can be done by using the weed risk assessment (WRA)

tool in conjunction with the risk assessment required under the HSNO Act. The difficulty with other

groups of organisms is the lack of a pest risk assessment framework as it exists for plants. However,

similar principles can be applied to other groups on a case-by-case basis.

Section 35 (for rapid assessment considerations) and section 38 (for full assessment considerations) of

the HSNO Act ask a number of questions. The answers to these questions are based on analysis of

relevant information about the organism. In order to use the available biological information, and

indeed to indicate the information that is required, these questions are expanded on and, where

appropriate, are used in the WRA model. In addition, information required for most of the Minimum

Standards in section 36 of the Act is also relevant to the various sections of the WRA. However,

answering these questions alone is not sufficient as the matters in Part 2 of the Act, particularly sections

5 & 6, must also be included in the decision-making process. These matters do not lend themselves as

readily to alignment with the WRA and its scores.

The WRA, developed by the Landcare Research Institute, is based on a system originally developed for

the Australian Quarantine and Inspection Service (AQIS) and is being considered for use in the HSNO

Act framework. It is a spreadsheet-based model that looks at the information and gives it a “score”

according to the characteristics of the plant species. The WRA analysis includes the information

required for the purpose of the HSNO Act as well as information that will be directly relevant for a

WRA by the Landcare Research Institute. The WRA represents the analysis or score for a particular

attribute or attributes that relate to the questions asked for a plant risk assessment. According to

Williams and Lee (2001), the assessment sheet for each plant species involves entering information on

two major areas. Each question is given a score and the total score for weediness places the species in

one of three classes: reject, accept, or requiring further evaluation.

The biogeographical and historical information focuses on the characteristics of the species’ native

range, particularly climate, and its history of domestication, spread and weediness elsewhere. Factors

such as a species’ origins and history, weediness of its relatives, and its own biological characteristics

are all taken into consideration when assessing weed potential in New Zealand. The biological and

ecological information uses attributes known to be associated with competitive ability, persistence, and

reproductive vigour. In early tests, the WRA model clearly placed all current major weed species in

New Zealand in either the reject/evaluate further category.

Williams and Lee (2001) add that much of the research is focussed on improving the information on

attributes to detect weeds amongst species not yet in New Zealand, or weeds present only in

cultivation/low population densities. This involves comparative investigations of weedy/non-weedy

species in several large families renowned for weed species [Pinaceae (pine, fir, larch, spruce),

Fabaceae (legumes), Rosaceae (the rose family - includes roses, strawberry, cherry, apple etc.)].

3. Criteria for risk assessment

3.1 Criteria for rapid assessment of risk for importation of new organisms

(Section 35 of the HSNO Act)

As noted in the Introduction, the HSNO Act provides a two-tiered approach for import and release of all

new organisms, a rapid assessment process for those new organisms that are obviously low risk and a

full assessment process for those that do not qualify for low risk consideration. The Act requires the

decision making Authority to consider the following for a rapid assessment application for release of an

organism into the environment.

According to the HSNO Act a rapid assessment of adverse effects of importing a new organism can be

made if the Authority is satisfied on a number of counts, including the following provisions:

⇒

Section 35(2)(a), which requires consideration of whether the organism has been declared an

unwanted organism under the Biosecurity Act 1993, administered by the Ministry of Agriculture

and Forestry (MAF). The purpose of the Biosecurity Act 1993 is to enable New Zealand to exclude,

eradicate or effectively manage pests and unwanted organisms already in the country. The Act has

two major components. The prevention of introduction of unwanted organisms not already

established in New Zealand through border control and the management of unwanted organisms

established in New Zealand through the development of pest management strategies on regional or

national basIslands Information on the status of pests and diseases can be found on MAF website

http://www.maf.govt.nz

. If the organism has been declared an unwanted organism then it is unlikely

to be considered for rapid assessment under the HSNO Act. This information is not used in the

WRA.

⇒

Section 35(2)(b)(i), which requires the consideration of whether it is highly improbable that the

organism could after release form self-sustaining populations anywhere in New Zealand while

taking into account the ease with which the organism could be eradicated if so required. The ability

to form self-sustaining populations refers to the ability of continued existence in the uncontrolled

environment without human intervention. The continuation of population in the long term is likely

to be a result of the reproductive viability of the organism and this information is what is required to

enable the questions in sections 6, 7 and 8 of the WRA to be answered.

⇒

Section 35(2)(b)(ii) & (iii), which envisages that an approval for an organism’s release is unlikely

to be given under the rapid assessment provisions of the Act if the organism is likely through

competition to displace or markedly reduce the numbers of an existing valued species so as to cause

deterioration to natural habitats. The relevant information for these criteria will be that which

enables sections 2, 3 and 4 of the WRA to be analysed.

⇒

Section 35 (2)(b)(iv) & (v), which contemplates that a release application is also unlikely to succeed

if the organism is likely to be disease-causing or be a parasite, or be a vector or reservoir for human,

plant, or animal disease. Section 4 of the WRA has questions relevant to these matters.

Addressing these criteria is important because they provide a means to determine whether an organism

offers very little risk after importation into New Zealand. Such an organism is unlikely to require

further evaluation of its effect and may be approved for release, subject to any quarantine requirements

under the Biosecurity Act. These quarantine requirements ensure that pests or diseases associated with

the new organism are not imported with it.

To summarise, the following Table presents a hypothetical evaluation of a circumstance where rapid

assessment may be a possibility.

Item

Criteria in the HSNO Act Probability Remarks

(i) Form self-sustaining populations

Ease of eradication

Possibility in extreme

north of New Zealand

Medium to high

Risk of becoming a pest

negligible

Easily controlled with biocide

or other means

(ii) Could displace or reduce valued

species

Very low Risk of becoming a pest

negligible

(iii) Cause deterioration of natural

habitats

Very low Risk of becoming a pest

negligible

(iv) Disease causing to humans,

animals, or plants

Low Non-toxic to predator

(v) Adverse effects on human health

and safety or the environment

Low Non-pathogenic to humans

and other mammals

In reaching the conclusion to invoke ease of eradication to approve the application, the decision-maker

would have to be satisfied that effects identified are negligible/insignificant.

If effects are not negligible/insignificant, then the decision-maker may have to consider declining the

application under section 35 of the HSNO Act and indicating to the applicant that the applicant may

wish to re-submit the application under section 34 of the Act after fulfilling the information and other

requirements of the process section 34 requires for determination under section 38 of the Act.

3.2 Minimum standards (Section 36 of the HSNO Act)

The minimum standards are in a way environmental bottom lines. Any organism to be imported has to

meet each of the criteria set down as minimum standards in the Act. The Authority is required to

decline the application, if the organism to be imported is likely to:

⇒

cause any significant displacement of any native species within its natural habitat

Here the consideration should be an assessment of real and substantial effects on a native species

where the native species occurs naturally (its natural habitat, i.e. without human intervention).

⇒

cause any significant deterioration of natural habitats

This criterion requires consideration beyond species level of real and substantial effect of new

organism introduction on assemblages of organisms (microorganisms, plants, and animals) in a

natural situation where the organism is to be introduced.

⇒

cause any significant adverse effects on human health and safety

The criterion is for the consideration of real and substantial effect on human health and safety.

⇒

cause any significant adverse effect to New Zealand's inherent genetic diversity

Inherent genetic diversity is the genotypic diversity of an organism and the criterion is for the

consideration of real and substantial effects of an introduced organism on the existing diversity of

organisms in the environment where the organism is likely to establish. Biotic communities often

exhibit phenotypic similarities but genetic diversity may still exist. This diversity may be

advantageous in maintaining resilience of populations against adverse effects caused by external

factors such as disease, drought etc.

In these contexts, genotype is the genetic constitution of an organism as opposed to its physical

appearance (phenotype). Usually, genotype refers to the specific allelic composition of a particular

gene or set of genes in each cell of an organism, but it may also refer to the entire genome. A

Phenotype is what the genetic trait looks like or the kind or type of organism produced by the

reaction of a given genotype with the environment. In other words it is the observable manifestation

of a specific genotype exhibiting properties of an organism produced by the genotype in

conjunction with the environment. Organisms with the same overall genotype may have different

phenotypes because of the effects of the environment and of gene interaction. Conversely,

organisms may have the same phenotype but different genotypes, as a result of incomplete

dominance, penetrance, or expressivity, or in brief, a group of individuals similar in appearance but

not necessarily in genetic constitution.

⇒

cause disease, be parasitic, or become a vector for human, animal, or plant disease, unless the

purpose of that importation or release is to import or release an organism to cause disease, be a

parasite, or a vector for disease.

This criterion excludes the introduction of organisms that are likely to affect other organisms unless

the intention for the organism is to do so. These considerations are likely to be more relevant to

importations of organisms that could affect other organisms that may be pests (i.e., introduction of

biological control agents).

In general, a question is often asked as to how much is “significant.” In view of the variable nature of

biological material, one explanation based on value judgement of a particular case is substantial

displacement, deterioration, and adverse effect resulting from an introduced organism.

To summarise, the following Table presents a hypothetical evaluation of minimum standards where

rapid assessment may be a possibility.

Item

Criteria in the HSNO Act Probability Remarks

(a) Significant displacement of

native species

Very low Risk of becoming a pest

negligible

(b) Significant deterioration of

natural habitats

Very low Risk of becoming a pest

negligible

human health and safety

Nil No effects predicted

(d) Significant adverse effects on

genetic diversity

Low Potential for

hybridisation low

(e) Cause disease, be parasitic, or

become a vector, etc.

Low to medium Non-toxic to mammals

3.3 Matters relevant to purpose, principles, and matters of the HSNO Act

In addition to the specific criteria discussed above, consideration of an application is to include matters

relevant to the purpose (section 4), principles (section 5) and matters (section 6) of the Act. Of key

importance are the matters in section 6 and information that is necessary considers these matters as

follows.

⇒

The sustainability of all native and valued introduced flora and fauna

The criteria are aimed at consideration of the effect new introductions may have on the continued

survival at or close to population densities that existed prior to the introduction. The key element is the

sustainability of existing biota meaning that organisms need a certain threshold of population density to

be able to continue unaided existence in the environment. This population density is to be at a level that

would sustain the effects of natural population fluctuations and perturbations as a result for example of

fluctuations in breeding performance, food supply, or environmental variability. Population densities

naturally fluctuate between years and are at times affected by abiotic factors such as climatic variables

of temperature and rainfall. However, resilient populations normally sustain these fluctuations and

perturbations and therefore it is anticipated that new introductions if approved would not affect the

existing native and valued populations in such a way as to jeopardise their continued existence.

The attributes that could be used as a guide to determining whether a particular new organism could

become a problem by affecting New Zealand’s inherent biodiversity are dispersal ability, sexual and

vegetative reproductive capacity, life expectancy, population size, niche requirements, geographical

distribution, ability to hybridise, history of domestication and cultivation, competition, climatic

requirement, and presence of predators.

The evaluation of the above attributes with respect to WRA will depend on the availability of

information on the following characteristics:

−

Taxonomy. Taxonomic classification of the species including reference to common names and

history of any recorded name change, general information and attributes concerning the family

the proposed plant belongs to, and general information concerning the genus. Include name,

year, and reference of the authority attributed to describing the species.

−

Natural distribution of the plant. Does the organism occupy montane, lowland, tropical, sub

tropical, cool temperate, or warm temperate area? Information is likely to include whether they

could displace native species or detrimentally change their habitat or block or impede water

flow and whether they are bog, swamp or water margin species that could smother other plants

or significantly alter that habitat.

−

Habitat requirements of the plant. Includes specific habitat requirements, for example,

terrestrial, aquatic, pasture, forest, scrub, mountain, arable land, and wasteland.. Whether the

species has any undesirable traits such as spines, thorns, burrs, allelopathic, parasitic, or

unpalatable to herbivores. Information on plants that:

•

are toxic or cause allergies;

•

spread by vegetative means;

•

produce seed and could establish in pasture (including longevity of seed and mechanism of

seed dispersal);

•

are host for pests and pathogens;

•

create a fire hazard in natural ecosystems;

•

are shade tolerant at any stage of their life cycle including climbers that grow in the shade

yet form a dense canopy in the light that could smother native and other protected bush or

forestry

•

are vines and thicket forming; and

•

tolerate a wide range of soil conditions.

−

Seed Production. The ability and characteristics for persistence, for example, seed production

(>1000/m

), evidence that a persistent propagule bank is formed (>1 yr).

−

Enemies. Whether known natural enemies present in New Zealand.

−

Basic description of the structure of the plant. For example, leaves, fruit, flowers, and branches

of plants, and morphology, sexual dimorphism, and height and spread.

−

Life history and life cycle information. For example, mode of reproduction, evidence of

reproductive potential in native habitat, and whether the plant:

•

produces viable seed;

•

hybridises naturally and its potential of breeding with New Zealand flora to produce

hybrids; and

•

is self- or cross-pollinating and requires specialist pollinators.

−

Mode of dispersal. For example, whether propagules are likely to be dispersed unintentionally

from plants growing in heavily trafficked areas or propagules likely to be dispersed as a produce

contaminant. Whether propagules are adapted to wind dispersal, water dispersed, dispersed by

birds, dispersed by other animals by being externally attached to them, and whether propagules

can survive passage through the gut.

−

Affinities with New Zealand biota. Information on whether the plant has close taxonomic

relatives in New Zealand.

−

Factors limiting distribution. For example information on, altitude, temperature, humidity, wind

resistance, rainfall, nutrient requirements, soil type, and water quality preferences of the plant.

Comment on whether the species is suited to New Zealand climate, and how compatible is

climatic data between where it occurs and that of New Zealand.

−

Introduction history. Does the species has a history of repeated introductions outside its natural

range, is it naturalised beyond its native range (e.g. in areas such as garden, amenity, disturbed,

agriculture, forestry, and horticulture).

−

Competitors and browsers. Information on whether the plant is likely to compete with other

New Zealand flora for space and whether it is likely to be browsed by herbivores in managed

and natural environments.

−

Special characteristics and behavioural patterns. Information on any special features such as

weedy potential, toxicity, spines, aggressive behaviour, or offensive odour. Information is

required on characteristics such as:

•

prickly leaved rosette forming plants that may successfully compete with pasture species

especially in low rainfall areas;

•

plants with extensive rhizomes or stolons that may invade arable land, pasture, or native

habitats; or

•

plants that could compete effectively in the New Zealand cropping systems and be difficult

to selectively control.

−

Potential uses. Includes the purpose for which the plant is likely to be used, for example,

increased productivity, value as food/product/herb/medicinal/ornamental/forage.

−

Other factors. Information on whether the species is highly domesticated, becomes naturalised

where grown, and has weedy relatives. With respect to terrestrial grass species information on

their ability to produce seed that can invade pastures and devalue wool, hides, or meat would be

useful. Information on whether the plant:

•

can be controlled by herbicide; and

•

tolerates or benefits from mutilation, cultivation, or fire.

⇒

The intrinsic value of ecosystems

The HSNO Act defines “intrinsic value” with respect to ecosystems as those aspects of ecosystems and

their constituent parts which have value in their own right, including their biological and genetic

diversity and the essential characteristics that determine an ecosystem's integrity, form, functioning, and

resilience. In this context, constituent parts are the biotic microorganisms, plants and animals and

abiotic water, air and substrate such as soil that are an integral part of the ecosystem. Biological and

genetic diversity is the different biological entities and their genetic variation that may be manifest in

their phenotypic size, form, colour.

Integrity, form, and functioning can be exemplified by the differences that are found between for

example forest and grassland ecosystems. A particular forest ecosystem may have a defined integrity

and form by virtue of forest species composition. For example, lowland podocarp forests show a greater

diversity of species than do montane beech forests. In integrity of form they have different canopy strata

and introduction in these ecosystems of a plant that has the ability to dominate the canopy strata would

have a marked effect on the existing structure. This structural change could have an effect on the

functioning of the ecosystem through likely changes in nutrient cycling and energy flow. A similar

scenario is likely in the grasslands ecosystem. Resilience in this context means the ability of ecosystems

to withstand biotic and abiotic fluctuations and perturbations such as those mentioned above under the

sustainability of all native and valued introduced biota.

Ecosystems function within a range of energy flow parameters of its primary producers (e.g. plants),

primary consumers (e.g. herbivores), decomposers (e.g. bacteria and fungi), saprophytes (e.g.

earthworms and insects), and predators (e.g. predatory insects, spiders, lizards, birds, and mammals).

Any marked change in these parameters resulting from new introduction is likely to be considered as

affecting the ecosystem’s intrinsic value.

⇒

Public health

This relates to the effects that for example a plant to be imported may have directly if it is consumed or

indirectly through for example inhalation of pollen. New Zealand’s Environmental Risk Management

Authority (ERMA New Zealand) has prepared a technical guide that outlines aspects to be considered

when addressing issues of human health under the HSNO Act (refer to Technical Guide – Assessment

of Effects of Hazardous Substances and New Organisms on Human Health. Written by Deborah Read,

ERMA New Zealand, January 2000).

⇒

The relationship of Māori and their culture and traditions with their ancestral lands, water, sites,

waahi tapu, valued flora and fauna, and other taonga

This provision is for the consideration of the effects that the proposed organism introduction is likely to

have on the value of Māori way of life. It is therefore important that Māori are consulted for their views

on the proposal to import new organisms into New Zealand. ERMA New Zealand has developed

guidelines on Māori consultation and prospective applicants are advised to familiarise themselves with

these documents and also talk to ERMA New Zealand. ERMA New Zealand has prepared a technical

guide that outlines aspects to be considered when addressing cultural issues under the HSNO Act (refer

to Technical Guide – Taking Account of Cultural, Ethical and Community Issues. ERMA New Zealand,

August 2000).

⇒

The economic and related benefits to be derived from the use of a particular hazardous substance

or new organism

This provision is for the economic costs and benefit of the proposed importation of a new organism into

New Zealand. The applicants are required to present their analysis and conclusions in support of their

case for the importation.

⇒

New Zealand's international obligations

With respect to new organisms in general New Zealand is a party to many international agreements and

therefore obliged to comply with their requirements. In respect of new organisms, New Zealand is

signatory or party to the following.

−

The Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora

(CITES), which restricts trade in endangered species of plants and animals.

−

The International Convention for the Protection of New Varieties of Plants (UPOV). The

organisation responsible for this convention is UPOV or the International Union for the

Protection of New Varieties of Plants. UPOV is a sister organisation of WIPO or the World

Intellectual Property Organisation.

−

The International Plant Protection Convention (IPPC).

−

The Plant Protection Agreement for the South East Asia and Pacific Region.

−

The Convention on Conservation of Biological Diversity (CBD).

−

The International Plant Protection Convention (IPPC).

−

European Plant Protection Organisation.

−

Organisation International Epizootic (OIE).

−

Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) Seed Schemes.

−

OECD Fruit and Vegetable Schemes.

−

International Board of Plant Genetic Resources (IBPGR).

−

The Union for Protection of Varieties of Plants.

−

The FAO, or the Food and Agricultural Organisation's, Convention on International

Undertaking on Plant Genetic Resources. New Zealand did sign this FAO convention with

reservation on aspects that conflict with plant breeders' rights.

These international agreements may in future be influenced by the outcome of the October 1991 claim

to the Waitangi Tribunal (WAI-262) relating to Māori rights in relation to indigenous flora and fauna.

The claimants represent a number of iwi throughout the country and the issues they raise are relevant to

all iwi. The claim is broad in scope and relates to the protection, control, conservation, management,

treatment, propagation, sale, dispersal, utilisation, and restriction on the use of and transmission of the

knowledge of New Zealand flora and fauna and the genetic resource contained therein.

4. Conclusion: comparison of weed risk assessment and legislative criteria

Information based on the above regime can be directly used for the WRA model of Landcare Research.

A comparison of the Landcare Research WRA model criteria and the information requirement under the

HSNO Act as discussed above in this document is presented in the Table below.

WRA model criteria

HNSO Information requirement

Domestication/Cultivation

1.01 Is the species highly

domesticated?

The species must have been cultivated and subjected to

substantial human selection for at least 20 of the species’

generations. Domestication generally reduces the

weediness of a species by breeding out noxious

characteristics.

1.02 Has the species become

naturalised where grown?

Is the domesticated species growing, reproducing and

maintaining self-sustaining population in the area it is

growing in?

1.03 Does the species have weedy

races?

Whether the domesticated species has sub-species,

cultivar, or a registered variety.

Climate and Distribution

2.01 Species suited to New Zealand

climates

Applies to any one or more than one of the climate types

in New Zealand and the deduction is likely to be drawn

from a recognised climate matching analysIslands

2.02 Quality of climate match data Climatic analysis is likely to consider factors limiting

distribution, for example, altitude, temperature, humidity,

wind resistance, rainfall, nutrient requirements, soil type,

water quality etc.

2.03 Broad climate suitability Whether the species is suited to New Zealand climate,

how compatible is climatic data between where it occurs

and in New Zealand.

2.04 Native or naturalised in regions

with equable climates

Is it native or naturalised in regions with equable climates,

does the species have a history of repeated introductions

outside its natural range.

2.05 History of repeated introductions

outside its natural range.

Does the species have a history of repeated introductions

outside its natural range?

Weed elsewhere

3.01 Naturalised beyond native range Is it naturalised beyond its native range?

3.02 Garden, amenity, or disturbance

weed

Is it present in areas such as garden, amenity, disturbed?

3.03 Agricultural, forestry or

horticultural weed

Is it present and a weed in agriculture, forestry, and

horticulture?

3.04 Environmental weed Is the species known to alter the structure or activity of a

natural ecosystem, including whether the species has

spines, aggressive behaviour, or offensive odour.

3.05 Congeneric weed Is there evidence of weediness among species of the

genus?

WRA model criteria

HNSO Information requirement

Undesirable traits

4.01 Produces spines, thorns or burrs Information on the basic structure of the plant. For

example, leaves, fruit, flowers, and branches, and

morphology, sexual dimorphism, and height and spread.

Whether the species has any undesirable traits such as

spines, thorns, or burrs.

4.02 Allelopathic Whether the species is well documented as a suppressor of

the growth of other plants.

4.03 Parasitic Does the species have parasitic characteristics?

4.04 Unpalatable to grazing animals Whether the species is unpalatable to herbivores or if

palatable to herbivores could they keep it under control?

4.05 Toxic to animals Whether the species is toxic to animals and does it spread

by vegetative means and by seed and could it establish in

pasture. Consideration should be given to whether there is

likelihood that the toxin would reach animals by grazing

or contact. Species may be mildly toxic but palatable and

could cause problems if heavily grazed.

4.06 Host for recognised pests and

pathogens

Whether the species is host pathogens or an alternative

host of crop pest and diseases.

4.07 Causes allergies or is otherwise

toxic to humans

Whether the species has allergic properties through

physical contact by inhalation of pollen.

4.08 Creates a fire hazard in natural

ecosystems

Does the species have growth characteristics that could

lead to the rapid accumulation of combustible material?

4.09 Is a shade tolerant plant at some

stage of its life cycle

Is the species shade tolerant at any stage of its life cycle?

4.10 Tolerates a wide range of soil

conditions

Does the species tolerate a wide range of soil conditions or

have specific requirements?

4.11 Climbing or smothering growth

habit

Is the species a climber and grows in shade yet forms a

dense canopy in the light that could smother native and

other protected bush or forestry?

4.12 Forms dense thickets Is the species a vine and thicket forming? Could it obstruct

passage or access, or exclude other species?

Plant type

5.01 Aquatic Is the species likely to grow in or near streams, rivers,

ponds, lakes, or estuarine systems?

5.02 Grass Does the species belong to the families Poaceae or

Gramineae?

5.03 Nitrogen fixing woody plant Does the species belong to the families Leguminosae or

Fabaceae?

5.04 Geophyte Is the species perennial with tubers, corms, or bulbs?

Reproduction

6.01 Evidence of substantial

reproductive failure in native

habitat

Comment on predators or disease that may be responsible

for reduction in reproductive capacity. Reproductive

potential could increase in the absence of limiting factors.

6.02 Produces viable seed Does the s

ecies

roduce viable seed and do the seeds

WRA model criteria

HNSO Information requirement

require special dispersal aids or have special mechanisms?

6.03 Hybridises naturally Documented evidence is to be provided if interspecific

hybrids are known without human intervention.

6.04 Self-compatible or apomictic Whether the species is capable of self-seeding and can

spread from seed produced by an isolated plant?

6.05 Requires specialist pollinators This requirement is important in determining the species’

invasive potential as invasiveness may be reduced in the

absence of special pollinator(s).

6.06 Reproduction by vegetative

propagation

Is the species capable of increasing its numbers by

vegetative means such as by rhizomes, stolons, suckers,

stem or root fragments, or from cuttings?

6.07 Minimum generative time (years) Information on germination to production of viable seed

or the time taken for a vegetatively reproduced species to

duplicate itself.

Dispersal mechanism

7.01 Propagules likely to be dispersed

unintentionally (plants growing in

heavily trafficked areas)

Whether propagules (any structure, sexual or asexual,

which serves as a means of reproduction), unintentionally

dispersed as a result of human activity.

7.02 Propagules dispersed intentionally

by people

Whether the propagules have characteristics that make it

attractive or desirable, such as an edible fruit or are

ornamental.

7.03 Propagules likely to disperse as a

produce contaminant

Whether propagules can be dispersed for example as weed

seed in bulk grain shipment.

7.04 Propagules adapted to wind

dispersal

Evidence of whether wind increases the dispersal ability

and range of the propagule.

7.05 Propagules water dispersed Whether propagules are buoyant.

7.06 Propagules bird dispersed Whether propagules can be transported and/or consumed

by birds, and could grow after passage through the gut.

7.07 Propagules dispersed by other

animals (externally)

Whether the species has adaptations, such as burrs, and/or

grows in situations that make it likely that propagules

become temporarily attached to animals or humans.

7.08 Propagules survive passage through

the gut

Whether propagules eaten by animals other than birds,

dispersed and will grow after passing through the gut.

Persistence attributes

8.01 Prolific seed production

(>1000/m

)

The ability and characteristics for persistence, for

example, seed production (>1000/m

8.02 Evidence that a persistent

propagule bank is formed (>1 yr)

Evidence that a persistent propagule bank is formed (>1

yr).

8.03 Well controlled by herbicides Whether the plant can be controlled by herbicides.

8.04 Tolerates, or benefits from,

mutilation, cultivation, or fire

Tolerates, or benefits from, mutilation, cultivation, or fire,

and effective natural enemies present in New Zealand.

8.05 Effective natural enemies present in

New Zealand

Whether natural enemies of the species are present in New

Zealand.

5. Government departments/agencies working in the field of biological invasions

Dr. Abdul Moeed

Senior Scientific Advisor

Environmental Risk Management Authority

P.O. Box 131, Wellington

New Zealand

Tel: (64) 4 918 4834

Fax: (64) 4 914 0433

Email: [email protected]

Executive Co-ordinator

MAF Biosecurity Authority

Ministry of Agriculture and Forestry

P.O. Box 2526, Wellington

New Zealand

Tel: (64) 4 470 2754

Fax: (64) 4 498 9888

6. Bibliographic references and useful websites

Williams, P.A. and W.G. Lee. 2001: Why screen for weediness? Garden Journal 4: 19-23.

⇒

Environmental Risk Management Authority (ERMA)

http://www.ermanz.govt.nz

⇒

Hazardous Substances and New Organisms (HSNO) Act 1996

http://hsno.govt.nz/no.shtm

⇒

Ministry of Agriculture and Forestry (Biosecurity Authority)

http://www.maf.govt.nz/biosecurity/index.htm

http://www.maf.govt.nz/biosecurity/legislation/index.htm

Niue

Mrs. Crispina F Konelio

Senior Plant Protection & Quarantine Officer

Department of Agriculture, Forestry & Fisheries

P.O. Box 74, Alofi

Niue Island

Tel: 683 4032

Fax: 683 4079

Email:

[email protected]

Introduction

Niue Island is very isolated from the rest of the Pacific region but is nevertheless very vulnerable to the

movement and impact of invasive alien species (IAS). It is now well known that IAS represent a very

serious risk to biodiversity and could degrade the island’s native ecosystems. Many surveys carried out

by regional experts have concluded that after habitat modification and destruction, invasive species are

responsible for the extinction of more indigenous species than any other natural or human-made cause.

Invasive alien species have already caused severe and ongoing damage and accelerated the extinction of

many native species on Niue Island.

1. Main IAS in Niue

The following list includes ten IAS categorised and prioritised as the most noxious invasive species on

Niue.

⇒

Singapore daisy, Wedelia (Wedelia (=Sphagneticola) trilobata)

⇒

Chain of hearts/chain of love (Antigonon leptopus)

⇒

Lantana (Lantana camara)

⇒

Honolulu rose (Clerodendrum chinense)

⇒

Feral pigs (Sus scrofa),

⇒

Money plant/pothos (Scindapsus aureus)

⇒

Wood rose (Merremia tuberose)

⇒

African tulip tree (Spathodea campanulata)

⇒

Crown of thorns starfish (Acanthaster planci)

⇒

Rats

Two other IAS of current concern are Giant Sensitive plants (Mimosa diplotricha) and Blue rats tail

(Stachytarpheta urticifolia).

Wedelia, chain of hearts, Lantana, Honolulu rose, wood rose, and money plant were all introduced as

ornamental plants for gardens. Giant sensitive plants and blue rats tail are believed to have been

introduced with cattle imported from overseas. Some of these invasive species are only found in very

specific areas. The Department of Agriculture, Forestry & Fisheries, in cooperation with the Secretariat

for the Pacific Community (SPC) has made several recommendations for funding assistance from SPC

to develop and establish eradication campaign to control these invasive species (see 2 below).

Wedelia, chain of hearts and giant sensitive plants have a broad ecological tolerance range and are

equally suited to dry and moist sites. They grow well on almost all soil, including bare limestone and

nutrient poor sandy areas, and are tolerant to inundation and high levels of salinity. If Wedelia and chain

of hearts become established in plantations, they will compete with agricultural crops for nutrients,

light, and water and eventually reduce crop yield. If these species are not eradicated now, they will have

very significant impacts on agricultural plantations, livestock, forestry and the environment. Surveys

carried out by consultants visiting Niue (Space and Flynn, 2000; Thaman, 1999; Wilco Liebrets,

Secretariat of the Pacific Community) have strongly recommended eradication of Wedelia, chain of

hearts, and giant sensitive plants. Space and Flynn (2000) also identify weed species that are of high

risk to Niue but are not present on the island.

For the crown of thorns starfish, there is no information on how this was introduced into Niue. The

starfish does not appear to be causing a problem yet, as there are no noticeable changes to the

community structure and no species that appear to be overtaking others on a large scale.

2. Summary of existing strategy and programs on IAS

In 2001, the Department of Agriculture, Forestry & Fisheries established a National Invasive Species

Committee consisting of representatives from the Community Affairs Department (Environment), Plant

Protection, Forestry and Fisheries, and the private sector. The role of the Committee is to develop a

National Plan for Invasive Species for Niue to identify, eradicate, control, contain, and mitigate IAS

that are currently damaging Niue’s natural and semi-natural ecosystems, and also to develop activities

for the conservation of native biodiversity, land, and seawater on Niue.

Another of the Committee’s tasks is to identify and prioritize plant, animal, and marine species regarded

as IAS (e.g. known to be a problem elsewhere and capable of spreading widely) that are not yet present

in Niue and which could be a major problem if introduced here. To effectively implement this Plan,

Quarantine and Conservation Officers need to be trained to identify IAS already present on Niue and

what threat they pose to natural ecosystems. It would also be of great assistance to identify other

noxious IAS not yet present on the island.

The Plant Protection and Quarantine Division of the Department of Agriculture, Forestry & Fisheries is

carrying out an eradication programme for Singapore daisy (Wedelia (=Sphagneticola) trilobata), giant

sensitive plant (Mimosa diplotricha) and chain of hearts (Antigonon leptopus), with the financial and

technical assistance of the Secretariat of the Pacific Community (SPC). The eradication campaign

started in March 2001 with the first visit of the SPC Consultant (Wilco Liebrets) to assist and develop

activities for the eradication of these three species. The species are sprayed with Round Up when

necessary, hand weeded or burned for easier identification purposes. In order for the campaign to a

success, it is very important to keep up regular monitoring of sites infested with these weeds and and

through spraying and hand-pulling, keep these weeds to a manageable level. Public awareness materials

are currently being developed (for Singapore daisy, leaflets and television coverage; for giant sensitive

plants, a leaflet).

The Plant Protection Division has also drawn up programs for the monitoring, managing of other

invasive species on the island. Some years ago, biological agents received from GTZ/SPC were

released in order to control Lantana: recently updated monitoring of progress shows that control of

lantana has produced good results.

In 1999, Niue participated at the Regional Invasive Species Workshop funded by AusAID and SPREP

in Nadi, Fiji and shared its concerns with IAS specialists. These concerns have been notified to the

Forest Service International Forestry Office and it is hoped that funds will be made available for a

consultancy to assess forest invasive species issues for Niue.

For feral pigs (Sus scrofa), Niue has tried many different control methods over a long period but

progress has been very slow and control not sufficiently effective. The government has set up an

awareness campaign to encourage the public to carry out pig trapping and shooting and, for each pig tail

submitted (as proof), a payment of US$15.00 per tail is made. Records show very good results from the

common lands in which feral pigs are found and it is now very rare to receive complaints from those

areas. In addition, legislation has been enacted to provide for regular monitoring of pig farms. Pig

farmers to required to ensure that all pigs are in their pens and to prevent their pigs from wandering, as

they could then destroy crops and property. If escaped pigs are found, farmers can be prosecuted and

are liable to a fine of up to US$1000 or two years imprisonment.

3. Government departments/agencies concerned with IAS

⇒

Department of Agriculture, Forestry & Fisheries (Plant Protection, Livestock, Fisheries,

Forestry)

The Plant Protection and Quarantine Division plays a major role in carrying out the control of

imports (e.g. plants, animal, meat, fruits, vegetables, stored products, building materials) at all ports

of entry to ensure nothing imported will cause a major threat and risk to the island’s native

biodiversity.

⇒

Community Affairs Department (Environment Unit)

⇒

National Training Unit

⇒

Public Works Department

⇒

Natural Disaster Management Unit

4. Priorities identified for future work

The Niue Government has now published the Niue National Biodiversity Strategy and Action Plan. The

section on Alien and Invasive Species sets out four specific objectives:

⇒

Objective 1: Prevent the introduction of new IAS

⇒

Objective 2: Reduce and eliminate the impacts of existing pest species

⇒

Objective 3: Raise awareness of the risks posed by IAS

⇒

Objective 4: Build the capacity required to manage the threats posed by IAS

To help implement these objectives, the National Invasive Species Committee has produced Guidelines

for the prevention, introduction and mitigation of impacts of IAS that threaten Niue’s Biodiversity (see

Annex to this report).

Recommended priority actions include:

⇒

development of guidelines for the establishment of effective Emergency Response Plans for IAS in

Pacific islands;

⇒

coordination with the South Pacific Regional Environment Programme to support national

workshops in member Pacific Island Countries and Territories: these should target both

Conservation Officers and Quarantine Officers as these are the people working most closely with

plants and other species;

⇒

implementation of the recommendations made by Space and Flynn in their report to the Niue

Government, notably the development of a risk assessement scheme for Niue, with assistance as

necessary from the Global Invasive Species Programme (GISP).

5. List of experts working in the field of biological invasions

⇒

Department of Agriculture, Forestry & Fisheries (DAFF)

P.O. Box 74, Alofi

Niue Island

Tel: 683 4032

Fax: 683 4079

Email: [email protected]

Colin Etuata (Quarantine Officer)

Cris F. Konelio (Senior Plant Protection & Quarantine Officer)

B. Tauasi (Quarantine Officer)

C. Poumale (Field Officer)

I. Mamaia (Contractor)

V. Tauevihi (Contractor)

Taliu Alapaki (Senior Extension Officer)

⇒

Community Affairs Department (Environment Unit)

Alofi

Niue Island

Fapoi Akesi (Director)

Sione Talagi (Environment Officer)

Judy Nemaia (Biodiversity Officer)

⇒

Police Department (Natural Disaster Management Unit)

Alofi

Niue Island

Robert Togiamana (Co-ordinator)

6. Bibliographic references

Thaman, R.R. 1999. Wedelia trilobata: daisy invader of the Pacific Islands. Adapted from a discussion

paper prepared for the SPREP Regional Invasive Species Strategy for the South Pacific Islands

Region: Regional Workshop, Nadi, Fiji, 26

September 1999 – 1 October 1999.

Space, J.C and T. Flynn. 2000. Report to the Government of Niue on Invasive Plant Species of

Environmental Concern. USDA Forest Service, Pacific Southwest Research Station, Institute of

Pacific Islands Forestry, Honolulu, Hawai'i, USA. 34pp

Government of Niue (DAFF – Forestry Division). 2000. Volume 1 National Forest Policy Statement.

Government of Niue. 2001. Niue National Biodiversity Strategy and Action Plan.

Government of Niue. 2001. Draft National Action Plan for Invasive Species (September 2001).

Acknowledgements

I would like to thank the Global Invasive Species Programme, U.S. Embassy, and Bishop Museum for

their invitation to the Pacific Islands to participate in this very important Workshop on Prevention and

Management of IAS: Forging Cooperation throughout the Austral Pacific Region. I hope to collect and

contribute to the best of my ability regarding our concerns about the impact of IAS on environment,

agriculture, and health.

Annex

Guidelines for the prevention, introduction and mitigation of impacts of IAS

that threaten Niue’s Biodiversity

A. GENERAL

1. Precautionary approach

Because of the unpredictability of the pathways and impacts on biological diversity by invasive alien

species (IAS), efforts to identify and prevent unintentional and international introductions should be

based on the precautionary approach.

2. Three stage approach (eradication, containment and control)

Prevention is far more cost effective and environmentally desirable. Priority should be given to

preventing the introduction of IAS. If an IAS has been introduced, the preferred response is often to

eradicate the species (e.g. Wedelia) as soon as possible. In the event that the eradication is not feasible

due to limited resources then containment is necessary. Before long-term control methods are

implemented it is crucial that cost benefit analysis is undertaken first.

3. Ecosystem approach

Measures to deal with IAS should be based on the ecosystem approach.

4. State responsibility

Island states should recognized the risk that they may pose to other islands states as a potential source

of IAS, and should take all necessary steps to minimize that risk (e.g. fruit flies).

5. Research and monitoring

In order to develop an adequate knowledge base to address the problem, it is important to undertake

research and monitoring of IAS.

6. Education and public awareness

Raising public awareness of the IAS is crucial to any successful management of IAS. When mitigation

measures are required, education and public awareness programmes should include all stakeholders

within the local community.

B. PREVENTION

7. Border control and quarantine measures

Niue should implement border controls and quarantine measures for species that have or could become

invasive to ensure that international introductions of alien species are subject to appropriate

authorization and within the law of Niue. Unintentional and unauthorized introduction of alien species

is minimized. Measures should be based on scientific assessment of the risk posed by the alien species

and their potential pathway of entry.

8. Exchange information

Develop a database and exchange and dissemination of information with other countries on the incident

list, potential threat etc.

9. Cooperation, including capacity building

Agreement between countries bilateral or multilateral should be developed to regulate trade in certain

alien species. Niue to support capacity building program

C INTRODUCTION OF SPECIES

10. Intentional introduction

A risk assessment, including environment impact assessment must be undertaken as a condition of

whether or not to authorize a proposed introduction of animal, plant, plant products, and animal

products (etc). This involves the assessment of the risk of the commodity when imported on the

environment, human health, and agriculture.

11. Unintentional introductions

Niue should have in place provisions to address unintentional introduction (e.g. Quarantine Act and

associated regulations for sufficient operational resources) to allow for a rapid and effective action.

Common pathway leading to intentional introductions needs to be identified and appropriate provision

to minimize such introductions should be in place. Promote sectoral activities (e.g. fisheries,

agriculture, forestry, shipping, tourism, and transportation).

D MITIGATION

12. Mitigation of impacts

Once the establishment of an IAS has been detected, Niue should take appropriate steps such as

eradication, containment, and control, to mitigate adverse effect technique used for eradication,

containment and control should be safe to the environment, human and agriculture, as well as socially,

cultural acceptable.

13. Eradication

Where it is practical and affordable often is the best course of action to deal with the introduction and

establishment of eradication plan for IAS. The best opportunity for eradication of invasive species is in

the early stages of invasion; when populations are small and localized. Community support is often

essential and necessary to achieve eradication work.

14. Containment

When eradication is not appropriate, limit the spread of IAS is often the best strategy. Regular

monitoring outside the control boundaries is essential and need to be linked with quick action to

eradicate any new outbreaks.

15. Control

Measures should focus on reducing the damage caused rather than merely reducing the number of IAS.

Effective control will often rely on a range of integrated management techniques, including mechanical

control, chemical, bio-control and habitat management. Most control methods measures will need to be

regularly applied, resulting in a long term recurrent and operating costs.

Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands

Mr. Tom B. Pangelinan

Secretary

Department of Lands and Natural Resources

Lower Base, P.O. BOX 10007, Saipan

MP 96950

Tel: (670) 322 9830/9834

Fax: (670) 322 2633

Email:

[email protected]

and

Mr. Manuel M. Pangelinan

Invasive Species Rangers, Project Manager

Department of Lands and Natural Resources

P.O. Box 10007, Saipan

MP 96950

Email:

[email protected]

Contributor (brown tree snake)

Mr. Nathaniel B. Hawley

Department of Lands and Natural Resources, Division of Fish and Wildlife

Lower Base, P.O. Box 10007, Saipan

MP 96950

Tel: (670) 664 6000

Fax: (670) 664 6060

Email:

[email protected]

Introduction

The Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands archipelago consists of 14 islands in a 685-

kilometer (500-mile) chain. Pursuant to constitutional mandates, the island of Managha must be

maintained as an uninhabited place and used only for cultural and recreational purposes. The islands of

Maug, Uracas, Asuncion, Guguan, and other islands must be maintained as uninhabited places and used

only for the preservation and protection of natural resources, including but not limited to bird, wildlife

and plant species. Land use on the other nine islands is laid down by law and includes places of

importance to the culture, traditions and history of the people of the Northern Mariana Islands, public

utilities, and infrastructures, forest, conservation, agricultural farmland, homesteading, and economic

urban development. The islands of Saipan, Tinian, and Rota are the developed and most populated

islands equipped with modern urban development and infrastructure settings. An estimated 9-15 people

are settled in the island of Anatahan, but the population fluctuates on a yearly basis due to the lack of

any urban development and infrastructure.

The islands are located between 13 and 31°N latitude and between 144 and 146°E longitude in the

Western Pacific Ocean. The total land area of the Northern Mariana Islands is estimated at 176.5 square

miles. All of the islands are volcanic, but the southern islands of Rota, Aguijuin, Tinian, Saipan, and

Farallon de Medinilla are older and primarily limestone with level terraces and fringing coral reefs. The

nine northern islands are younger and primarily volcanic-several contained active volcanoes. The

highest island in this archipelago is Agrihan (3,166 feet).

The Guinness Book of Records cites the Northern Marianas as having the most equitable climate in the

world. The average year round temperature is 85 degrees Fahrenheit, and annual rainfall averages

between 67 inches and 98 inches. Beginning in December and running through March, these islands are

cooled slightly as the northeast trade winds bring comfortable breezes to the islands.

⇒

Geographic location and land area by island

•

Farallon de Pajaros 20

33 Minutes North and 144

54 Minutes East 80.0square miles

•

Maug 20

02 Minutes North and 144

14 Minutes East 80.0square miles

•

Asuncion 19

39 Minutes North and 145

23 Minutes East 2.8square miles

•

Agrihan 38

44 Minutes North and 145

45 Minutes East 18.3square miles

•

Pagan 18

07 Minutes North and 145

45 Minutes East 18.7square miles

•

Alamagan 17

35 Minutes North and 145

50 Minutes East 4.4square miles

•

Guguan 17

20 Minutes North and 145

51 Minutes East 1.6square miles

•

Sariguan 16

43 Minutes North and 145

46 Minutes East 1.9square miles

•

Anatahan 16

22 Minutes North and 145

38 Minutes East 12.5square miles

•

Farallon de Medinilla 16

00 Minutes North and 146

04 Minutes East 0.4square miles

•

Saipan 15

05 Minutes North and 145

50 Minutes East 47.5square miles

•

Tinian 14

58 Minutes North and 145

35 Minutes East 39.3square miles

•

Aguijan 14

53 Minutes North and 145

35 Minutes East 2.8square miles

•

Rota 14

08 Minutes North and 145

12 Minutes East 32.9square miles

⇒

Geographic Map

1. Main invasive species in the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands

Invasive alien species (IAS) have been introduced into our islands over a very long period. Not all such

species are considered harmful: some are considered beneficial and some are used as a medicinal and

food source. However, known IAS on the islands are now being evaluated prior to being replanted. To

the extent possible, replanting of IAS is being discouraged.

Annexes 1-3 to this report contain photographs and detailed lists of IAS present in the Commonwealth

of the Northern Mariana Islands (CNMI). The report itself focuses on strategy and action to control the

two most serious IAS in the CNMI.

⇒

Brown tree snake (

Boiga irregularis

)

The brown treesnake (BTS) has had a devastating effect on the economy and on the diversity of wildlife

in Guam. It has extirpated most of the native forest bird species and costs local utility companies

(power outages) and businesses millions of dollars annually. The nearby CNMI has a vital interest in

the interdiction and control of the spread of the BTS. Eleven BTSs have been captured on Saipan since

1982: three were found in the interior of the island (Chalan Kanoa, 1991; As Teo, 1992; Capital Hill,

1998) while eight were associated with ports of entry. The CNMI has developed a multi-faceted BTS

Program which targets quarantine, active interdiction (trapping and night searches) and education (see 2

below).

⇒

Ivy or scarlet fruited gourd (

Coccinia grandis

)

Since its introduction about 11 years ago, the ivy or scarlet gourd is estimated to have covered 35% of

the vegetation on the island of Saipan and has made its path to the islands of Rota and Tinian. This

noxious cucurbit vine forms a thick canopy over the ground, shrubs and trees, blocking sunlight to

vegetation below. It generates a range of very serious impacts: 1) destroys plant life; 2) weighs down

utility and power lines, causing power outages and communication disruptions; 3) acts as host for the

melon fly (Bactrocera cucurbitae) and the papaya mealybug (Paracoccus marginatus Williams); 4)

destroys and displaces wildlife habitats; and 5) destroys natural and human-made landscape features.

Because of its adaptability and ability to grow in any given environmental conditions, the ivy gourd is

considered to be the most threatening noxious weed in the CNMI. In addition to birds eating its fruits

and seeds and distributing them widely, this vine can easily be propagated from a stem or root cutting.

2. Summary of existing strategy and programs on IAS

2.1 General information

The CNMI is vulnerable to introductions of IAS due to its close proximity to the neighboring island of

Guam and to Asian countries, as well as the frequent maritime and air transportation activities. The

DLNR considers that agriculture quarantine inspectors at ports of entry play the key role in preventing

further introduction of IAS. It is therefore imperative to provide regular training to improve the

inspectors’ skills and knowledge and to ensure that information on IAS are readily available and

accessible.

The rapid growth of the ivy or scarlet gourd and the high number of sightings of the brown tree snake

has prompted the Department of Lands and Natural Resources (DLNR, see also 3) to strengthen its

commitment to improve its management programs. Emphasis is now being placed on conducting

thorough assessment, providing control and prevention measures, improving management, increasing

awareness campaigns, providing legislation, and taking measures to ensure that infestations are

controlled within the affected islands and that introduction to other islands is prevented.

The DLNR recognizes that the campaign against IAS cannot be successfully handled alone. It is also

essential to forge partnership with our stakeholders: local, state, federal, national, and international

organizations, as well as the community at large. DLNR finds it necessary to continuously improve

upon the relationship of our stakeholders now involved in dealing with IAS and continues to pursue

other stakeholders that may contribute to the program.

2.2 Brown tree snake programs

This information is taken from Hawley’s Summary of Existing Programs and Respected Contact

Information, funded by Department of the Interior-Office of Insular Affairs and the CNMI Government.

In addition to the contacts for specific programs listed below, information on any aspect of BTS

programs may be obtained from:

CNMI-DLNR-DFW BTS

Lower Base, P.O. BOX 10007, Saipan, MP 96950

Tel: (670) 664 6000

Fax: (670) 664 6060

Email: [email protected]

⇒

Brown Tree Snake Detector Dog Program

The program is a collaborative effort between the CNMI Division of Fish and Wildlife and the Division

of Agriculture (DOA). Six BTS Detector Dogs, each paired with a quarantine inspector, inspect high-

risk cargo at the Saipan International Airport and Seaport.

CNMI-DLNR-DOA

Kagman Agriculture Station

P.O. Box 10007, Saipan, MP 96950

Tel: (670) 256 3317/18

Fax: (670) 256 7154

Email: [email protected]

Asia Pacific Canine

P.O. BOX 504174, Saipan, MP 96950

Tel: (670) 288 9792

⇒

BTS Containment Barrier

A BTS Containment Barrier is currently under construction at the Saipan Seaport. This containment

barrier will act as a quarantine area for high-risk cargo (e.g. construction supplies/equipment, used

vehicles) in-coming from Guam. Rota and Tinian Containment Barriers are in the planning stages with

expected completion in FY2003.

Rocky Mountain Pre-Stress Concrete

GU 96932

Tel: (671) 653 4701

Fax: (671) 653 4704

⇒

BTS Trapping Program

Snake specific traps are hung on the fence lines surrounding all cargo staging areas at all CNMI airports

and seaports. Each trap is inspected and maintained three times a week. Additional traps are used in

response to BTS sightings in which 20-50 traps will be placed around the high-risk area in efforts to

capture the sighted snake.

⇒

Public communications

We utilize numerous media vehicles to increase public awareness, education, and assistance in reporting

BTS sightings immediately. Local newspapers, magazines, television, and school presentations have all

been used in the past. However, despite our efforts, we are still receiving snake sightings 2-3 weeks

after

the sighting. The result of this disturbing delayed response rate has prompted a

marketing/advertising campaign. Glimpses of Guam is designing a multi-faceted advertising campaign

strategy based on media consumption information and public surveys.

Glimpses of Guam Advertising

Hagatna, GU 96932

Tel: (671) 649 0883

Fax: (671) 649 8883

Email: [email protected]

2.3 Ivy gourd or scarlet fruited gourd programs

The rapid growth and spread of the ivy gourd prompted the DLNR to implement a control and

prevention program, build awareness and work closely with stakeholders at the University of Guam

(College of Agriculture) for the biological control of this gourd by the leafmining weevil (Acythopeus

cocciniae) and the ivy gourd vine borer (Melittia oedipus).

⇒

Invasive Species Rangers

The Rangers were established by the Secretary of Lands and Natural Resources on 1 April 2002 with a

mandate to develop strategy and plans, conduct assessments, and implement control measures,

management and awareness campaigns to address problems associated with invasive trees, weeds and

herbs. Their work involves cooperation between different agencies. In addition to the specific contacts

listed below, general information on the Rangers’ work can be obtained from:

Tom Pangelinan

Secretary, Department of Lands and Natural Resources

Lower Base, P.O. BOX 10007, Saipan, MP 96950

Tel: (670) 322 9830/9834

Fax: (670) 322 2633

Email: [email protected]

Donald G. Flores

Director, Division of Agriculture

P.O. Box 10007, Saipan, MP 96950

Tel: (670) 256 3318/19

Fax: (670) 256 7154

Manuel M. Pangelinan

Invasive Species Rangers Project Director

Division of Agriculture

P.O. Box 10007, Saipan, MP 96950

Tel: (670) 256 3318/19

Fax: (670) 256 7154

Email: [email protected]

⇒

Invasive Species Rangers Control and Eradication Team

The control and eradication team is a collaborative effort between the various agencies under the

auspices of DLNR and the Saipan Mayor’s Office to provide for a mechanical and chemical form of

control of the ivy gourd, applying direct uprooting of ivy roots and using Garlon 3A chemical

application.

Victorino Deleon

Forestry Section, Guerrero Division of Agriculture

P.O. Box 10007, Saipan, MP 96950

Tel: (670) 256 3318/19

Fax: (670) 256 7154

James N. Babauta

Invasive Species Rangers Field Supervisor

Division of Agriculture

P.O. Box 10007, Saipan, MP 96950

Tel: (670) 256 3318/19

Fax: (670) 256 7154

⇒

Invasive Species Rangers Poster and Campaign Awareness Team

The poster and campaign awareness team has been established as a collaborative effort with the

Secretary’s Office, the Division of Fish and Wildlife and the Division of Agriculture Forestry Section.

It is developing a poster on the different types of IAS as well as poisonous plants and trees. The poster

is to be used for awareness campaigns to be disseminated in schools, public and private places, and to

be used for public education.

Marianne C. Teregeyo

Chairperson, Invasive Species Poster Committee

Department of Lands and Natural Resources

P.O. Box 10007, Saipan, MP 96950

Tel: (670) 322 9830/34

Fax: (670) 322 2633

3. Government departments/agencies concerned with IAS

3.1 General

Through enabling legislation, the Department of Lands and Natural Resources (DLNR) is the

responsible government agency to provide for the protection, conservation, preservation, and

enhancement of the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands land and marine resources.

DLNR has had programs to address IAS. The Division of Agriculture (Forestry Section) and the

Division of Fish and Wildlife (Wildlife Section) are the principal agencies under the DLNR responsible

to develop plans, create strategy, conduct assessment, provide control and prevention measures,

management and awareness campaigns to address problems and issues on IAS.

3.2 Brown tree snake: collaborating entities and potential collaborators

Collaborators

Potential collaborators

Department of the Interior –Office of Insular Affairs CNMI Public School System

CNMI Office of the Governor CNMI Rotary

CNMI DLNR Office of the Secretary CNMI Shippers Association

CNMI DFW Office of the Director Department of Finance- Customs

CNMI DOA Office of the Director CNMI Hotel Association

Asia Pacific Canine CNMI Commonwealth Health Center

Glimpses of Guam Advertising CNMI Commonwealth Utilities

Corporation

United States Geological Survey CNMI Northern Marianas College

United States Fish and Wildlife Service United States Post Office-CNMI

United States Department of Agriculture – Wildlife

Services

Guam Division of Aquatic and Wildlife Resources

CNMI-Commonwealth Port Authority

Saipan Stevedores

Rota Terminal and Transfer

Tinian Office of the Mayor

Rota Office of the Mayor

Colorado State University

CNMI Coastal Resource Management Office

CNMI Division of Environmental Quality

CNMI Emergency Management Office

CNMI Department of Public Safety

3.3 Ivy gourd or scarlet fruited gourd: collaborating entities and potential collaborators

Collaborators

Potential collaborators

CNMI Legislature CNMI Public School System

CNMI Office of the Governor CNMI Rotary

CNMI DLNR Office of the Secretary CNMI Shippers Association

CNMI DFW Office of the Director Department of Finance- Customs

Collaborators

Potential collaborators

CNMI DLR&S Office of Director CNMI Commonwealth Health Center

CNMI DOA Office of the Director CNMI Commonwealth Utilities

Corporation

CNMI-DOA Agriculture Quarantine Section CNMI-Department of Public Works

CNMI-DOA Forestry Section CNMI-Department of Public Safety

Office of Saipan Mayor, Saipan Mayor United States Post Office-CNMI

Tinian Office of the Mayor CNMI Cable Vision

Rota Office of the Mayor CNMI Verizon

Office of Northern Island Mayor, Northern Island Mayor

Northern Marianas College (Cooperative Research

Extension and Education Services)

University of Guam (College of Agriculture)

USDA Forestry Service – Institute of Pacific Islands

Forestry

USDA Animal and Plant Health Inspection Services –

Plant Protection Quarantine

USDA Agriculture Research Service

Secretariat of the Pacific Community Forests and Trees

Programme

United States Fish and Wildlife Service

Saipan Nursery Association

4. Priorities identified for future work

4.1 Brown tree snake

⇒

implement BTS Detector Dog Program on Tinian and Rota;

⇒

construct BTS Containment Barriers on Tinian and Rota;

⇒

implement standard operating procedures for all containment barriers that will require 72 hour

quarantine of high-risk cargo;

⇒

impose a penalty for shippers in violation of quarantine procedure as related to the BTS;

⇒

monitor prey-base populations to determine incipient BTS populations; and

⇒

form a working group with other biogeographic regions at risk to evaluate control and interdiction

programs.

4.2 Ivy gourd or scarlet fruited gourd

⇒

continue the mechanical and chemical control measures on Saipan, Tinian, and Rota islands;

⇒

construct a barrier or defense line to prevent further infestation;

⇒

implement legislation for prevention measures from further introduction of IAS;

⇒

get more public participation and involvement in the control measures; and

⇒

continue with the awareness campaigns and education to the general public.

5. List of experts working in the field of biological invasions

5.1 Brown tree snake: experts working on control and interdiction

Avery, Mike

USDA-National Wildlife Research Center

2820 E. University Ave.

Gainesville, FL 32601

[email protected]

Mackessy, Stephen

Dept. of Biological Sciences

501 20th St., University of Northern Colorado

Greeley, CO 80639-0017

(970) 351-2429

[email protected]

Beck, Robert

Guam Div. Aquatic and Wildlife Resources

192 Dairy Road

Mangilao, GU 96923

(671) 735-3992

[email protected]

Mason, Robert

Dept. of Zoology, Cordley Hall 3029

Oregon State Univ.

Corvallis, OR 97331-2914

(541) 737-4107

[email protected]

Campbell, Earl

US Fish and Wildlife Service

Pacific Islands Office

300 Ala Moana Boulevard, Room 3-122

Honolulu, Hawai'i 96850

(808) 541-3441

Mathies, Thomas

USDA-National Wildlife Research Center

4101 LaPorte Ave.

Fort Collins, CO 80521-2154

(970) 266-6160

[email protected]

Chiszar, David

Dept. of Psychology, Campus Box 345

Univ. of Colorado, Boulder, CO 80309-0345

(303) 492-4283

[email protected]

Medina, Suzanne Crandall

Guam Div. of Aquatic and Wildlife Resources

192 Dairy Rd.

Mangilao, GU 96923

Clark, Larry

USDA-National Wildlife Research Center

4101 LaPorte Ave., Fort Collins, CO 80521-2154

(970) 266-6137

[email protected]

Mosher, Steven

USGS, P.O. Box 8255, MOU-3

Dededo, GU 96912

(671) 355-4014

[email protected]

Clark, Craig

USDA-Wildlife Services

1060 Route 16 Suite 103C

Barrigada Heights, GU 96929

(671) 472-7101

[email protected]

Nichols, Don

National Zoological Park, Dept of Pathology

3000 Blk. of Connecticut Ave NW

Washington, DC 20008

(202) 673-4869

[email protected]

de Cruz, Tina

Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands

Division of Fish and Wildlife

P.O. Box 10007, Lower Base, Saipan, MP 96950

(670) 664-6013

[email protected]

Pangelinan, Manuel

CNMI – Division of Agriculture

(670) 256-3318

[email protected]

Ehlert, Mike

University of Guam, CAS

Social and Behavioral Sciences, UOG Station

Mangilao, GU 96923

(617) 735-2886

[email protected]

Pitzler, Mike

USDA-Wildlife Services

3375 Koapaka St., Ste H420

Honolulu, HI 96819-1869

(808) 861-8577

[email protected]

Hackman, Jason

USGS, P.O. Box 8255, MOU-3

Dededo, Guam 96912-8255

(671) 355-4014

[email protected]

Rodda, Gordon

USGS Midcontinent Ecological Science Center

4512 McMurry Ave., Fort Collins, CO 80525-3400

(970) 226-9471

[email protected]

Hawley, Nate

CNMI DLNR-DFW

BTS Section

P.O. BOX 10007

Saipan, MP 96950

[email protected]

Savarie, Peter

USDA-National Wildlife Research Center

4101 LaPorte Ave.

Fort Collins, CO 80521-2154

(970) 266-6154

[email protected]

Heggestad, David

DOI-Office of Insular Affairs

1849 C St., NW,

MS 4328

Washington, DC 20240

(202) 208-6971

[email protected]

Savidge, Julie

Dept. of Fisheries & Wildlife Biology

Colorado State University

Fort Collins, CO 80523-1474

(970) 491-6510

[email protected]

Henson, Paul

US Fish and Wildlife Service

Pacific Islands Office

300 Ala Moana Boulevard, Room 3-122

Honolulu, Hawai'i 96850

(808) 541-3441

[email protected]

Schmidt, Robert

Dept. of Fisheries and Wildlife

5210 Old Main Hill

Utah State University

Logan, UT 84322-5210

(435) 797-2536

[email protected]

Jodoin, Cheryl

DOI-Office of Insular Affairs

1849 C St., NW,

MS 4328

Washington, DC 20240

(202) 208-4866

[email protected]

Steiner, William

USGS- Pacific Island Ecosystems Research Center

St. John Hall 408

3190 Maile Way

Honolulu, HI 96822

(808) 956-5691

Kaichi, Lester

Plant Quarantine Branch

Hawai'i Dept. of Agriculture

701 Ilalo Street

Honolulu, HI 96813

(808) 586-0893

[email protected]

Sugihara, Bob

USDA-National Wildlife Research Center

Hilo Field Station

P.O. Box 10880

Hilo, HI 96721

(808) 961-4482

robert.t.sugihara@aphIslandsusda.gov

Kman, Teri

USGS-Midcontinent Ecological Science Center

4512 McMurry Ave.

Fort Collins, CO 80525

(970) 226-9242

[email protected]

Vice, Dan

USDA-Wildlife Services

1060 Route 16

Suite 103-C

Barrigada Heights, GU 96921

(671) 635-4400

[email protected]

Kosaka, Ernest

US Fish and Wildlife Service

P.O. Box 50167

Honolulu, HI 96850

(808) 541-1222

[email protected]

Vice, Diane

Guam Div. of Aquatic and Wildlife Resources

192 Dairy Road

Mangilao, GU 96923

Lassuy, Denny

US Fish and Wildlife Service

Fisheries Resources

Portland, OR

(503) 872-2763

[email protected]

5.2 Experts working on ivy gourd or fruited scarlet gourd

Dr. Craig Smith

NMC CREES

P.O. Box 501250

Saipan, MP 96950

Email: [email protected]

Dr. Muniappan

UOG College of Agriculture

Manilao

Guam 96923

6. Bibliographic references and useful websites

6.1 Brown tree snake

Please refer to website: http://www.mesc.usgs.gov/resources/education/bts/resources/bibliography.asp

6.2 Ivy gourd or scarlet fruited gourd

U.S. Forest Service Institute of Pacific Islands Forestry (Pier CD Version 3.0)

Wittenberg, R. and M.J.W. Cock. 2001. Invasive Alien Species: a Toolkit of Best Prevention and

Management Practices. CAB International, Wallingford, Oxon, UK (available on

http://www.cabi-bioscience.ch/wwwgisp/gt1goto.htm

and www.gisp.org).

⇒

http://www.hear.org/pier/

⇒

http://www.aphIslandsusda.gov/invasivespecies/

Annex 1

Selected invasive alien plants in the Northern Mariana Islands

(source: U.S. Forest Service, Institute of Pacific Islands Forestry,Pacific Island Ecosystems at Risk (PIER) CD Version 3.0)

English: Formosa acacia

Chamorro: sosigi

Carolinian: serepa

(Acacia confusa)

English: sweet acacia

Local: popinac, kandaroma

(Acacia farnesiana)

English: sandalwood tree

Local: kulales

(Adenanthera povinina)

English: East Indian

walnut

Chamorro: kalaska

Carolinian: Schepil

Kalaska

(Albizia lebbek)

English: soursop

Local: syasyap

(Annona muricata)

English: chain of love

Local: flores ka’dena

(Antigonon leptopus)

English: bamboo

Chamorro: pi’ao

Carolinan: bwai

(Bambusa spp.)

English: orchid tree

Local: flores mariposa

(Bauhinia monandra)

English: beggar’s tick

Chamorro: unknown

Carolinian: unknown

(Bidens pilosa)

English: perfume tree

Local: alang-ilang

(Canaga odorata)

English: ironwood

Chamorro: gagu

Carolinian: weighu

(Casuarina equisetifolia)

English: silk cotton tree

Local: atgodon

(Ceiba pendantra)

Annex 2

Invasive alien plants in the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands

Common names

Scientific name English Local Family Habit Locale

Acacia confusa

Formasa koa,

Formosa acacia

sosigi (Chamorro),

serepa, soschghi

(Carolinian)

Fabaceae tree Saipan-Tinian-

Rota

Acacia farnesiana

Ellington curse, klu,

sweet acacia

aroma, popinac,

kandaroma

Fabaceae shrub Saipan

Adenanthera pavonina

Coral been tree,

sandalwood tree, red

bead tree, lopa, bead

tree, false wilwili,

peacock flower-

fence

colales, culalis,

kulales, kulalis

Fabaceae tree Saipan-Rota

Albizia lebbeck [Acacia

lebbeck, Mimosa lebbeck]

siris-tree, rain tree,

East Indian walnut,

kokko, woman's-

tongue tree, soros-

tree, roam tree

kalaska, trongkon-

kalaska (Chamorro),

schepil kalaska

(Carolinian)

Fabaceae tree Saipan-Tinian-

Rota

Annona muricata

soursop, prickly

custard apple

syasyap Annonaceae tree Saipan-Tinian-

Rota-Northern

Islands

Antigonon leptopus

Mexican creeper,

mountain rose,

Confederate vine,

chain-of-love, hearts

on a chain, love-

vine, coral bells,

coral vine, queen's

jewels, kadena de

amor, corallita

Flores ka'dena Polygonaceae vine Saipan-Tinian

Bambusa spp.

bamboo pi'ao, pi'ao palaoan

(Chamorro), bwai

(Carolinian)

Poaceae tree Saipan-Tinian-

Rota-Northern

Islands

Bauhinia monandra

orchid-tree, St.

Thomas-tree,

Napoleon's plume

flores mariposa Fabaceae tree Saipan-Tinian-

Rota-Northern

Islands

Bidens pilosa [Bidens

alba]

beggar's tick, Spanish needle, cobbler's

pegs

Asteraceae herb Saipan-Tinian-

Rota

Canaga odorata

perfume tree ilang-ilang, alang-

ilang

Annonaceae tree Saipan-Rota

Common names

Scientific name English Local Family Habit Locale

Casuarina equisetifolia

[Casuarina litorea,

Casuarina littorea]

casuarina, ironwood,

Australian pine, she-

oak, horsetail tree,

beefwood

gagu, gago

(Chamorro), weighu

(Carolinian)

Casuarinaceae tree Saipan

Ceiba pendantra

kapok, kapok tree,

silk-cotton tree,

pacae

koata, atgodon Bombacaceae tree Saipan-Rota

Cestrum diurnum

inkberry, day

jessamine, day

cestru, China berry

tentanchinu, tintan

China

Solanaceae shrub

Chromolaena odorata

[Eupatorium odoratum]

Siam weed, triffid

weed, bitter bush,

Jack in the bush

masigsig Asteraceae herb Saipan-Tinian-

Rota

Clerodendrum

quadriloculare

bronze-leaved

clerondendrum

Verbenaceae shrub Saipan

Clitoria ternatea

butterfly pea, Asian

pigeonwings

putitainubia Fabaceae vine Saipan-Tinian-

Rota

Coccinia grandis

[Bryonia grandis,

Coccinia cordifolia]

ivy gourd,

scarlet-fruited gourd

Cucurbitaceae vine Saipan-Tinian-

Rota

Delonix regia [Poinciana

regia]

flame tree,

flamboyant,

poinciana

atbot, atbut

(Chamorrow),

nfayarbaw

(Carolinian)

Fabaceae tree Saipan-Tinian-

Rota-Northern

Islands

Eichlorinia crassipes

water hyacinth Pontederiaceae aquatic

herb

Saipan

Ficus microcarpa

Chinese banyan,

Malayan banyan,

Indian laurel

nunu Moraceae tree Saipan-Rota

Lantana camara

Lantana Verbenaceae shrub Saipan-Tinian-

Rota

Leucaena leucocephala

[Leucaena glauca]

Leucaena, wild

tamarind, lead tree

tangantangan Fabaceae tree Saipan-Tinian-

Rota-Northern

Islands

Mikania micrantha

mile-a-minute weed, Chinese creeper,

American rope, bittervine

Asteraceae vine Saipan-Tinian-

Rota

Mimosa invisa [Mimosa

diplotricha]

giant sensitive plant,

nila grass

singbiguin sasa Fabaceae shrub Saipan-Tinian-

Rota

Momordica charantia

balsam-apple, bitter

melon, bitter gourd,

balsam pear,

squirting cucumber,

cerasee, peria

atmagoso Cucurbitaceae vine Saipan-Rota

Common names

Scientific name English Local Family Habit Locale

Mucuna pruriens

[Dolichos pruriens,

Stizolobium pruriens]

cow itch, velvet

bean, Bengal bean,

Mauritius bean

akangkang dangkulo Fabaceae vine Saipan

Muntingia calabura

jam tree, strawberry

tree, Jamaican

cherry, Singapore

cherry, Panama

berry, ornamental

cherry, calabura,

sirsen

mansanita Tilaceae tree Saipan-Rota-

Northern Islands

Pithecellobium dulce

[Mimosa dulcis]

Madras thorn,

Manila tamarind

kamchili

(Chamorro),

ghamasiligh

(Carolinian)

Fabaceae tree Saipan-Tinian-

Rota-Northern

Islands

Psidium guajava

guava abas guayaba Myrtaceae tree Saipan-Tinian-

Rota-Northern

Islands

Samanea saman [Albizia

saman, Pithecellobium

saman]

monkeypod, rain

tree, saman

trongkon mames

(Chamorro),

filinganga

(Carolinian)

Fabaceae tree Saipan-Rota

Spathodea campanulata

African tulip tree,

fireball, fountain

tree

apar Bignoniaceae tree Saipan

Syzygium cumini

[Eugenia cumini]

Java plum duhat Myrtaceae tree Saipan

Trema orientalis [Trema

cannabina]

charcoal tree,

gunpowder tree

agaunai, banahl, tal

amama

Ulmaceae tree Saipan

Annex 3

Table of IAS in the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands

CNMI List of Invasive Alian Species (by Alejandro Badilles, NMC-CREES Rota)

LASS

NSECT

AMILY

UBFAMILY

OMMON

AME

GENUS

PECIES

TAGE

AUSING

RDER

AMAGE

1 Insecta Lepidoptera Pyralidae Cabbage webworm Hellula undalis (F.) Caterpillar (larva)

2 Lepidoptera Pyralidae Head Cabbage Caterpillar Crocidolomia binotalis (Zeller) Caterpillar (larva)

3 Lepidoptera Pyralidae Pyraustinae European Corn Borer Ostrinia nubilalis (Hubner) Caterpillar (larva)

4 Lepidoptera Pyralidae Asiatic corn borer Ostrinia furnacalis (Hubner)

5 Lepidoptera Noctuidae Corn Earworm Heliothis zea (Boddie) Caterpillar (larva)

6 Lepidoptera Noctuidae Tomato fruit worm Heliothis armigera (Hubner) Caterpillar (larva)

7 Lepidoptera Noctuidae Armyworm Pseudaletia unipuncta (Haworth) Caterpillar (larva)

8 Lepidoptera Noctuidae Armyworm Spodoptera litura (F.) Caterpillar (larva)

9 Lepidoptea Yponomeutida

Diamond Backmoth Plutella xylostella (L.) Caterpillar (larva)

10 Lepidoptera Geometridae Cabbage looper Trichoplusia ni (Hubner) Caterpillar (larva)

11 Lepidoptera Flat moth Agonoxena argaula Larva

12 Lepidoptera Pieridae Imported Cabbage worm Pieris rapae (L.) Caterpillar (larva)

13 Insecta Diptera Melon Fly Bactrocera cucurbitae

(Coquillett)

Maggots

14 Diptera Melon Fly Dacus cucurbitae

(Coquillett)

Maggots

15 Diptera Agromyzidae Bean flies Ophiomyia phaseoli (Tryon) Maggots

16 Bean flies Ophiomyia centrosematis (de

Meijere)

Maggots

17 Insecta Coleoptera Apionidae Sweet potato weevil Cylas formicarius (F.) Larva and adult

18 Sweet potato weevil Cylas puncticollis

(Bohemann)

Larva and adult

19 Sweet potato weevil Cylas brunneus (F.) Larva and adult

20 Coleoptera Curculionidae West Indian sweet potato weevil Eucepes postfasciatus

(Fairmaire)

Larva and adult

21 Coleoptera Pumpkin Bettle/Cucumber

Beetle

Aulacophora similis Adult

CNMI List of Invasive Alian Species (by Alejandro Badilles, NMC-CREES Rota)

22 Coleoptera Epilachna beetles 12 spotted Epilachna duodecastigma

(Mulsant)

Larva and adult

23 Coleoptera Brontispa Beetle Brontispa longisima Larva and adult

24 Epilachna beetles 28 spotted Epilachna vigintioctopunctata

(F.)

Larva and adult

25 Coleoptera Scarabaeidae Melolonthinae Rose Chafer Beetle Macrodactylus subspinosus

(Fabricius)

Adult

26 Insecta Homoptera Aphididae Black legume aphid Aphis craccivora (Koch) Adult and nymph

27 Cotton aphid Aphis gossypii (Glover) Adult and nymph

28 Homoptera Eriococcidae The citrus mealy bug Pseudococcus citri (Risso) Adult and nymph

29 Homoptera Aleyrodidae Whiteflies Bemisia argentifolia Nymph and adult

PHLYLUM

31 Mollusca Molluscs Slugs - are snail that lack shells

32 African snail - presence of shell

RAT

Norway Rat Rattus norvegicus

34 Roof rat Rattus rattus

35 House mouse Mus musculus

PLANT

Scarlet Gourd Coccinia grandis

37 Masiksik Chromolaena odorata

38 Dodder Cuscuta campestris (Yuncker)

39 Purple nutsedge Cyperus rotundus (L.)

102

Republic of Palau

Ms. Tarita Holm,

National Biodiversity Coordinator

Office of Environmental Response and Coordination

P.O. Box 7086, Koror

Palau 96940

Email:

[email protected]

and

Mr. Pua Michaels

Urban & Community Forestry Volunteer Coordinator

Bureau of Agriculture

Email:

[email protected]

103

Introduction

The Republic of Palau recognizes the seriousness of the global invasive alien species (IAS) problem.

IAS are the second greatest threat to biodiversity worldwide, second only to habitat destruction. Across

the globe, many IAS have totally altered ecosystem structure and function. Many have caused

enormous economic and environmental damage and some are a threat to human health. Invasions are in

many cases irreversible and the problem is getting worse. In the Pacific, many experts now recognize

IAS as the greatest threat to biodiversity. The majority of the world’s recent extinctions have occurred

on islands as a result of IAS.

Scientists agree that there can be benefits from introductions of new species for agriculture, the

environment and/or development. However, each new introduction needs to be evaluated for its

potential to cause problems. There is often a time lag between initial introduction and evidence of

invasiveness. We cannot predict which organisms will become successful invaders nor can we predict

where and when invasions will occur. We do not know what an organism will do to an ecosystem

before it is introduced; therefore we must use the precautionary principle. Invasiveness in a similar

environment elsewhere is a stong indicator of a species’ potential to cause ecological change. One thing

we know for sure is that new introductions, whether intentional or accidental, will continue to occur.

Humans are rapidly accelerating introductions and the costs and benefits are not always evenly

distributed.

⇒

Geography, climate, population, and biodiversity

The Republic of Palau is an archipelago in the Western Pacific Ocean between 7

North latitude and

134

East longitude. Palau is the westernmost island cluster of the six major island groups that make up

the Caroline Islands. Palau is located approximately 800 km east of the Philippines and 800 km north of

Papua New Guinea. Although recognized as part of the Caroline island group which features both

volcanic and coralline islands, the Western Caroline Islands are exposed peaks of undersea ridges

stretching between Japan and New Guinea and are not located on the Pacific Plate. The Palau islands

originated on the now dormant southern section of the volcanic Palau-Kyushu Ridge, which formed

about 43 million years ago in a complex series of rifting and boundary shifts of the Pacific Plate margin

during the formation of the Philippine Basin (Kroenke 1984).

Part of the Oceania group, Palau is located on the eastern edge of the Philippine tectonic plate close to

the western edge of the Pacific plate. The Palau, Yap, and Marianas Trenches that mark the subduction

zone, where the Pacific plate is being driven under the Philippine plate, are some of the deepest waters

on earth. When the islands that make up Palau first emerged above sea level is unknown. However, the

oldest organic limestones have been dated to the early Miocene, which suggests that the volcanics were

emergent sometime before that, perhaps by the late Oligocene, some 30 million years ago (Crombie

1999).

The Palau archipelago stretches over 400 miles in a north-south direction from the atoll of Kayangel to

the islet of Hatohobei. Palau consists of 586 islands, of which only twelve are continuously inhabited.

Total land area is 535 km

, with 25% of Palau’s landmass under ten meters above sea level (MoA

2001).

104

Map of the Republic of Palau

105

The islands of Palau represent five geological island types, volcanic, high limestone, low limestone,

atolls, and a combination of volcanic and limestone (Crombie 1999). The largest islands were formed

by Eocene volcanic activity and are composed of basalt and andesite. They tend to have a high profile,

well-developed perennial stream systems, and a high diversity of terrestrial flora. Babeldaob island has

severely leached and highly acidic soils, unsuited for large-scale agriculture. The world famous “Rock

Islands” are of limestone formation. Peleliu and Angaur islands, located at the southern end of the main

archipelago, are low platform and reef islands. The Southwest group of islands, located approximately

200 km from the capitol, is made up of reef flats that have been subject to uplift. Kayangel Island, at the

northernmost tip of archipelago, is a classic coral atoll.

Babeldaob island is the largest in the Palau island chain and the second largest island in Micronesia.

Babeldaob constitutes 75% of Palau’s total landmass. At its greatest width, Babeldaob reaches fifteen

miles across (APCC 2001). With the exception of Kayangel, Angaur, and the Southwest islands, all of

the Palau islands are located within one barrier reef. Palau’s exclusive fishing zone is 12 nautical miles,

3 nautical mile territorial seas, with a 200 nautical mile extended fishing zone, which comprises an area

of approximately 600,900 km

(Sant/Hayes 1996).

⇒

Climate

The Republic of Palau boasts a maritime tropical rainy climate. Its mean temperature is 82°F and

fluctuates on a daily basis no more than 10°F. Annual mean humidity level is 82% and annual mean

rainfall is about 3810mm per year with seasonal variation (National Climatic Data Center et al. 1996).

Palau has two seasons during the year, wet and dry. The wet season typically begins in May and peaks

in September. Dry season prevails from February to April and October to December. February, March,

and April are the driest months of the year (NOAA 1991). January and February are generally the

coolest months but differ from the warmest month, April, by only 1°C. Seawater temperatures in the

main harbor, Malakal, averaged approximately 29°C for 2000 and 2001.

⇒

Population

Palau’s current population is 19,129 with an annual growth rate of 2.3%. The 2002 estimates for

average rate of natural increase is 1.2%. Infant mortality is 16.2 for every 1,000 births and the

population density per square mile is 110 (MoA 2002).

⇒

Biological diversity

The Republic of Palau is best known for its marine diversity though it also hosts a wide variety of

terrestrial flora and fauna, including many endemics. Numerous marine ecosystems exist, including

mangrove forests, seagrass beds, fringing reefs, patch reefs, barrier reefs, and marine lakes. These

ecosystems provide a plethora of marine habitats and even more niches for a huge variety of species to

inhabit. There are over 300 species of soft corals and 400 species of hard corals. Palau is home to over

1400 species of reef fish and 46 species of freshwater fish, eleven of which are endemic. Terrestrial

habitats include nine types of forests and savannah (Otobed and Maiava 1994, Cole et al. 1987). There

are approximately 1260 species and varieties of plants in Palau, of which about 830 are native and

nearly 200 are endemic. The numerous ecosystems found in Palau provide many goods and services

that are crucial to rural communities dependent upon food, fiber, fuel and energy, medicines, clean

water, as well as the spiritual, aesthetic, and recreational values derived from nature.

There are still many unknowns as to the number of marine and terrestrial organisms that reside in and

around the Palauan archipelago. This information gap is mainly due to inaccessibility and the lack of

106

capacity for further research. Palau’s natural resources, especially its wealth of biodiversity, are subject

to many anthropogenic and natural pressures. These pressures include increased demand for resources,

selective exploitation of species, land-use and land-use changes, anthropogenic nitrogen disposition,

soil and water pollution, introduction of IAS, and fragmentation of ecosystems. Climate change is an

added pressure on Palau’s ecosystems.

1. Main IAS in the Republic of Palau

The following tables list species in Palau that have been identified as harmful, invasive or pests. They

cover include plants, agricultural pests, animals, and marine pests respectively.

1.1 Invasive and potentially invasive plant species present in the Republic of Palau

The information is taken from the Pacific Island Ecosystems at Risk (PIER) project website

(http://www.hear.org/pier/

). See Annex 1 for more detailed tables contained in the draft Report to the

Republic of Palau on Invasive Plant Species of Environmental Concern (Space et al. 2003). These

tables include information about invasive plants not yet present in Palau.

Naturalized or cultivated plant species

Scientific name Family Habit

Abelmoschus moschatus Malvaceae herb

Acacia auriculiformis Fabaceae tree

Acacia confusa Fabaceae tree

Adenanthera pavonina Fabaceae tree

Agave sisalana Agavaceae herb

Albizia lebbeck Fabaceae tree

Allamanda cathartica Apocynaceae shrub

Alpinia purpurata Zingiberaceae herb

Angiopteris evecta Marattiaceae fern

Annona muricata Annonaceae tree

Annona squamosa Annonaceae tree

Antigonon leptopus Polygonaceae vine

Arundo donax Poaceae grass

Asystasia gangetica Acanthaceae herb

Axonopus compressus Poaceae grass

Bambusa spp. Poaceae tree

Bauhinia monandra Fabaceae tree

Bidens pilosa Asteraceae herb

Blechum pyramidata Acanthaceae herb

Bothriochloa bladhii Poaceae grass

Brachiaria mutica Poaceae grass

107

Scientific name Family Habit

Brachiaria subquadripara Poaceae grass

Breynia disticha Euphorbiaceae shrub

Bryophyllum pinnatum Crassulaceae herb

Calamus spp. Arecaceae shrub (palm)

Calliandra haematocephala Fabaceae shrub

Calopogonium mucunoides Fabaceae vine

Cananga odorata Annonaceae tree

Ceiba pentandra Bombacaceae tree

Cenchrus brownii Poaceae grass

Cenchrus echinatus Poaceae grass

Centrosema pubescens Fabaceae herb

Chamaecrista nictitans Fabaceae shrub

Chloris barbata Poaceae grass

Chloris radiata Poaceae grass

Chromolaena odorata Asteraceae herb

Cinnamomum verum Lauraceae tree

Clerodendrum buchananii var.

fallax

Verbenaceae shrub

Clerodendrum paniculatum Verbenaceae shrub

Clerodendrum quadriloculare Verbenaceae shrub

Clidemia hirta Melastomataceae shrub

Clitoria ternatea Fabaceae vine

Coffea arabica Rubiaceae tree

Commelina diffusa Commelinaceae herb

Crassocephalum crepidoides Asteraceae herb

Cynodon dactylon Poaceae grass

Cyperus involucratus Cyperaceae sedge

Cyperus rotundus Cyperaceae sedge

Delonix regia Fabaceae tree

Derris elliptica Fabaceae vine

Desmanthus pernambucanus Fabaceae herb

Dieffenbachia seguine Araceae herb

Digitaria ciliaris Poaceae grass

Digitaria violascens Poaceae grass

Dissotis rotundifolia Melastomataceae herb

Duranta erecta Verbenaceae shrub

Eichhornia crassipes Pontederiaceae aquatic herb

Elaeis guineensis Arecaceae tree

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Scientific name Family Habit

Eleusine indica Poaceae grass

Falcataria moluccana Fabaceae tree

Ficus elastica Moraceae tree

Ficus microcarpa Moraceae tree

Flemingia strobilifera Fabaceae shrub

Gliricidia sepium Fabaceae tree

Hedychium coronarium Zingiberaceae herb

Heliconia spp. Heliconiaceae herb

Hemigraphis alternata Acanthaceae herb

Hippobroma longiflora Campanulaceae herb

Hyptis capitata Lamiaceae herb

Hyptis pectinata Lamiaceae herb

Impatiens balsamina Balsaminaceae succulent

Impatiens walleriana Balsaminaceae succulent

Imperata cylindrica Poaceae grass

Ipomoea aquatica Convolvulaceae aquatic herb

Ipomoea spp. Convolvulaceae herb

Ischaemum rugosum Poaceae grass

Jatropha curcas Euphorbiaceae shrub

Jatropha gossypiifolia Euphorbiaceae shrub

Kyllinga brevifolia Cyperaceae sedge

Lantana camara Verbenaceae shrub

Leonurus japonicus Lamiaceae herb

Leucaena leucocephala Fabaceae tree

Melaleuca quinquenervia Myrtaceae tree

Melia azedarach Meliaceae tree

Melinis minutiflora Poaceae grass

Mikania micrantha Asteraceae vine

Mimosa invisa Fabaceae shrub

Mimosa pudica Fabaceae herb

Momordica charantia Cucurbitaceae vine

Moringa oleifera Moringaceae tree

Muntingia calabura Tiliaceae tree

Nymphaea spp. Nymphaeaceae herb

Ocimum gratissimum Lamiaceae herb

Opuntia spp. Cactaceae succulents

Orthosiphon aristatus Lamiaceae herb

Panicum maximum Poaceae grass

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Scientific name Family Habit

Panicum repens Poaceae grass

Paspalum conjugatum Poaceae grass

Paspalum orbiculare Poaceae grass

Passiflora foetida Passifloraceae vine

Passiflora quadrangularis Passifloraceae vine

Passiflora suberosa Passifloraceae vine

Pennisetum polystachion Poaceae grass

Pennisetum purpureum Poaceae grass

Persea americana Lauraceae tree

Pithecellobium dulce Fabaceae tree

Pluchea carolinensis Asteraceae shrub

Pluchea indica Asteraceae shrub

Psidium cattleianum Myrtaceae tree

Psidium guajava Myrtaceae tree

Ricinus communis Euphorbiaceae shrub

Samanea saman Fabaceae tree

Sambucus mexicana Caprifoliaceae small tree

Sansevieria trifasciata Agavaceae herb

Senna alata Fabaceae shrub

Senna obtusifolia Fabaceae herb

Sesbania grandiflora Fabaceae small tree

Solanum torvum Solanaceae shrub

Solenostemon scutellarioides Lamiaceae herb

Sorghum halepense Poaceae grass

Spathodea campanulata Bignoniaceae tree

Sporobolus indicus Poaceae grass

Stachytarpheta cayennensis Verbenaceae herb

Stylosanthes guianensis Fabaceae herb

Syngonium podophyllum Araceae vine

Syzygium cumini Myrtaceae tree

Syzygium jambos Myrtaceae tree

Tabebuia heterophylla Bignoniaceae tree

Tecoma stans Bignoniaceae small tree

Thevetia peruviana Apocynaceae small tree

Thunbergia grandiflora Acanthaceae vine

Timonius timon Rubiaceae tree

Tradescantia spathacea Commelinaceae herb

Tradescantia zebrina Commelinaceae herb

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Scientific name Family Habit

Triumfetta rhomboidea Tiliaceae shrub

Urena lobata Malvaceae shrub

Vitex parviflora Verbenaceae shrub/tree

Wedelia trilobata Asteraceae herb

Native or early introduction

Scientific name Family Habit

Bischofia javanica Euphorbiaceae tree

Caesalpinia bonduc Fabaceae vine

Caesalpinia major Fabaceae vine

Canna indica Cannaceae herb

Casuarina equisetifolia Casuarinaceae tree

Chrysopogon aciculatus Poaceae grass

Costus speciosus Zingiberaceae herb

Heterospathe elata Arecaceae tree (palm)

Ischaemum polystachyum Poaceae grass

Melochia umbellata Sterculiaceae tree

Merremia peltata Convolvulaceae vine

Miscanthus floridulus Poaceae grass

Pueraria montana var. lobata Fabaceae vine

Saccharum spontaneum Poaceae grass

Sacciolepis indica Poaceae grass

Setaria pallide-fusca Poaceae grass

Trema orientalis Ulmaceae tree

1.2 List of agricultural pests in Palau

(Source: Survey of Insect Pests of Crops and Invasive Weeds in the Republic of Palau 1999)

NOTE: The common names in these tables include those in use at various locations throughout the Pacific and

elsewhere. Additional information, including the locations where the various names are used, can be found in the

individual species summaries.

Scientific name Common name Host

Acrocercops sp. Leaf blotch miner

Sweet potato

Adoretus sinicus Chinese rose beetle

Banana, beans, rose, hibiscus, cocoa

Aleurodicus disperses Spiraling whitefly Banana, coconut guava, plumeria,

cassava, papaya, bell pepper, eggplant,

breadfruit

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Scientific name Common name Host

Anomis flava Okra semi-looper

Okra

Aphis craccivora Cowpea aphid

Beans, cucurbit, citrus, mango, breadfruit

Aphis gossypii Melon aphid

Cucurbits

Aspidiotus destructor Coconut scale Banana, coconut, breadfruit, papaya,

plumeria, cassava, kava, betelnut

Aulacophora similes Pumpkin beetle

Cucurbits

Bactrocera doralis Oriental fruit fly Guava, mango, papaya, starfruit, citrus,

mountain apple

Bactrocera frauenfeldi Mango fruit fly Tropical almonds, avocado, mountain

apple, breadfruit, soursop, tangerine,

mango, oranges

Bactrocera umbrosa Breadfruitfly

Breadfruit, jackfruit

Brontispa palauensis Palau coconut leaf beetle

Coconut

Chaetocnema affinis Flea beetle

Sweet potato

Chrysodeixis eriosoma Garden looper

Cucurbits

Cosmopolites sordidus Banana weevil

Banana

Cylas formicarius Sweet potato weevil

Sweet potato

Diaphania indica Cucumber moth

Cucurbits

Dysmicoccus brevipes Pineapple mealybug Pineapple, taro, pandanus, soursop,

coconut, betelnut

Furcaspis oceanica Red coconut scale

coconut, pandanus

Halticus tibialis Garden fleahopper

Cabbage, cucurbits, beans, sweet potato

Hellula undalis Cabbage webworm

Cabbage

Hippotion celerio Hornworm

Taro

Idioscopus niveosparsus Mango leafhopper

Mango

Leptoglossus gonagra Coreid bug Beans, cucumber, bitter melon, citrus

guava, eggplant

Liriomyza trifolii Leafminer

Beans

Maruca vitrata Legume pod borer

Beans

Metriona circumdata Green tortoise beetle

Sweet potato, kangkong

Neomaskella bergii Sugarcane whitefly

Sugarcane

Ophiomyia phaseoli Bean fly

Beans

Oryctes rhinoceros Rhinoceros beetle Coconut, betelnut, pandanus, sugarcane,

pineapple

Othreis fullonia Fruit-piercing moth Citrus, guava, papaya, banana, mango,

tomato, eggplant

Oxya japonica Japanese grasshopper

Sugarcane, coconut, betelnut

Papilio polytes Black citrus swallowtail butterfly Citrus, guava, papaya, banana, mango,

tomato, eggplant

Penicillaria jocosatrix Mango shoot caterpillar

Mango

Pentalonia nigronervosa Banana aphid

Banana, tomato, taro

Phyllocnistis citrella Citrus leafminer Citrus, guava, papaya, banana, mango,

tomato, eggplant

Plutella xylostella Diamond-back moth

Cabbage

Polyphagotarsonemus latus Broad mite Bell pepper, beans, tomato, papaya,

tobacco, sweet potato

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Scientific name Common name Host

Rhabdoscelus obscurus New Guinea sugarcane weevil Sugarcane, coconut, betelnut

Selenothrips rubrocinctus Red banded thrips

Mango, guava, avocado

Spodoptera litura Cutworm Cabbage, tomato, sweet potato, taro,

cucurbits

Tarophagus colocasiae Taro planthopper

Taro

Tetranychus sp. Spider mite

Beans, cassava

Trigonops sp. Weevil

Sweet potato

Trioza vitiensis Psyllid

Mountain apple

Valanga nigricornis Valanga grasshopper

Sugarcane, coconut, betelnut

1.3 List of invasive animal species

This is a preliminary list put together by the National Task Force on Invasive Animal Species, created

by Executive Order in April 2002 (see Annex 2). This is the only IAS list to cover potential impacts.

National Task Force On Invasive Animal Species

List of Invasive Animal Species

Invasive animal species definition:

“Non-native animals, including insects, which have been introduced into Palau, tend to increase in

population, spread and have a negative impact on health, biodiversity, farming, tourism, the

environment or the economy.”

Mammals, reptiles, and amphibians

Location Threat

level

Impact Action

Cat All Medium Negative: Eats bird eggs and

other local species

Positive: Reduces rat population

Monitor. Consider legislation

similar to dogs.

Dog All Medium

High in

Koror

Negative: May have

leptospirosis, have bitten people,

uncontrolled dogs are a public

nuisance.

Positive: Dogs can make good

pets that deter criminal activity

Support legislation introduced by

OEK (National Congress) and

strengthen as necessary.

Veterinarian now on island. Send

press release and promote

neutering/spaying nation-wide.

Consider other mechanisms to

reduce strays

Goat Babeldaob Low Negative: Eats and damages

native plants, especially new

seedlings.

Positive: Controls weeds and

grasses.

Must be monitored. Consider

legislation to require fences/leashes

and reporting.

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Macaque

Monkey

Anguar/All High Negative: Damage crops,

potential human health problem,

public nuisance

Positive: Limited potential as

tourist attraction.

Legislation to ensure that monkeys

do not spread to other islands.

Strengthen enforcement. Consider

neutering pets or destruction of

unwanted monkeys. Assist Anguar

in efforts to reduce population.

Seek off-island assistance.

Musk

Shrew

Anguar High Negative: Damages crops and

eats stored food.

Seek off-island assistance.

Rats All High Negative: Spread diseases,

including leptospirosis, damages

property and food supplies.

Seek off-island assistance. Letter

drafted for the Minister of

Resources and Development to

sign.

Pig Babeldaob High Negative: Damage crops,

damage native vegetation, threat

to human life.

Seek off-island assistance.

African

Snail

All Low Negative: Possible threat to

biodiversity, crop pest.

Control measures need to be

determined. Seek off-island

assistance.

Cane

Toad

All Low Negative: Poisonous and

threaten biodiversity,

particularly native insect

populations and other native

species

Control measures need to be

determined. Seek off-island

assistance.

Brown

Tree

Snake

Guam and

Saipan

(possibly)

Medium Eats bird eggs and is a serious

potential threat to native bird

populations.

Ensure snakes do not enter through

enhanced enforcement. Seek off-

island assistance for training and a

monitoring protocol to ensure that

they are not yet present. Seek

assistance to conduct thorough bird

survey.

Birds

Cockatoo Rock Islands

and

Southern

Babeldaob

Medium Negative: Eats the hearts of the

endemic palm, reducing

populations of these palms to

endangered status

Monitor and research impacts.

Seek off-island assistance.

Eclectus

Parrot

Rock Islands Low Negative: Eats plant seeds. Monitor and research impacts.

Seek off-island assistance.

City

Pigeon or

Rock

Dove

Koror and

Babeldaob

Medium Negative: Carries diseases that

have the potential to impact on

native birds.

Monitor and eradicate known

pigeons. Screen blood samples

taken from birds for any diseases

they might have.

Chestnut

Manakin

All Medium Negative: Spreads grass seeds—

could potentially assist in

spreading of Imperata

cylindrica.

Monitor the spread of Imperata

cylindrica and any other.

Fish

Tilapia Koror High Negative: Can outcompete

native freshwater fishes

eventually replacing them,

changing the natural

composition of Palau’s streams.

Eradication effort underway (Jan.

2003). The Republic has spent

over $60,000 for necessary

supplies, equipment and manpower

towards this eradication effort.

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Insects

Fruit Flies All High Negative: Damage agriculture,

high economic and health costs

to the Republic

Ministry of Resources and

Development expends $25,000 per

year on control efforts. Seeking

$1.6 million grant to implement

full eradication plan.

Mosquito All High Negative: Spreads dengue fever $181,000 grant for Environmental

Health and Sanitation ended 2002.

OEK (National Congress)

allocated $80,000 to cover salaries

and supplies for 2003.

Rhino-

ceros

Coconut

Beetle

All High in

Sonsorol

Negative: Destroys coconut

trees

Ministry of Resources and

Development, Bureau of

Agriculture will assist Sonsorol

State with Bio-control.

1.4 List of introduced marine species

This list is based on information provided by the Coral Reef Research Foundation (see Annex 3).

Probable introductions Possible introductions

Hydroids

Eudendrium carneum

Tyroscyphus fructicosus

Ascidians

The following ascidians are found in Malakal Harbor. None appear to be problematic yet, but

Didemun perlucidum is problematic in other areas of the world. For a reference on the invasion of

Didemnum perlucidum into the Gulf of Mexico on an artificial reef, see

http://www.beak.com/info/features/abstracts/CulbertsonHarper.htm.

Didemnum perlucidum Ascidia aperta

Diplosoma listerianum Ascidia archai

Lissoclinum fragile Botryllus tyreus

Ecteinascidia diaphanis

Eusynstyela hartmeyeri

Hermania insolita

Hermania momus

Microcosmus helleri

Microcosmus pupa

Perophora multiclathrata

Phallusia philippinensis

Polyclinum nudum

Pyura curvigona

Pyura honu

Pyura vittata

2. Existing coordination and programs on IAS

The Bureau of Agriculture is the government agency that has been the most involved in invasive

species management efforts. It has recently hired an Invasive Species Officer who will be working full

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time on the mapping and monitoring of priority plant species as well as eradication and control efforts,

using both manual community-based and chemical control methods.

There are two main groups at the national level that focus on IAS management and awareness. Most

efforts on IAS are pursued through agencies that are members of these two groups. These two groups

are the Palau Natural Resources Council (PNRC) and the National Task Force on Invasive Animal

Species (NTFIAS) (see further 3 below).

2.1 Invasive plant species

The Palau Natural Resources Council has established an Invasive Weed Committee (“Weedbusters”)

which has now conducted two Annual Invasive Weed Clean Ups. The main purpose of this activity is to

increase public awareness of invasive plants and their impacts. This year’s clean up and awareness

campaign focuses on mile-a-minute weed (Mikania micrantha). Mikania is now found in about 20 sites

on the capital island of Koror and one site in the state of Airai on the island of Babeldaob. The goal of

the clean-up is to reduce the weed’s potential to spread by destroying as much of it as possible before

the flowering season begins late October. In 2002, the clean-up started in late September with local

groups working on the weekends to clean up the 20 sites and ended on 2 November 2002.

The Weedbusters have recently prepared an invasive plants booklet which focuses on the eleven species

targeted for management in Palau. The Secretariat of the Pacific Community (SPC) has kindly provided

funds to print this publication for wide distribution throughout Palau.

⇒

Invasive Plant Survey

The Republic of Palau requested assistance from the US Department of Agriculture Forest Service

(Institute of Pacific Islands Forestry) to conduct a survey of invasive plant species of environmental

concern. A less comprehensive survey was conducted as part of a general survey of the major

Micronesian islands in 1998. Similar surveys have been conducted in American Samoa, the Cook

Islands, Niue, Samoa and Tonga. The survey was carried out from December 2002 – January 2003.

The entire team surveyed the islands of Koror, Ngerekebesang, Malakal, Babeldaob, Angaur, Peleliu

and the Rock Islands while Miles and Tiobech surveyed Sonsorol and Hatohobei States the last week of

December. Tiobech, Rengulbai, and Terebkul Tellei surveyed Kayangel. Places of present and former

habitation and those used by visitors were surveyed in the Rock Islands (Bablomekang, Betikel, Bkul a

Chesemiich, Carp Resort on Ngercheu Island, Dwight Beach, Ngchelobel, Ngchus, Ngeanges (Neco),

Ngerchong, Ngeremdiu, Ngermeaus, Ngidech, and Ulong).

The objectives of the survey were to: (1) identify plant species presently causing problems to natural

and semi-natural ecosystems; (2) identify species that, even though they are not presently a major

problem, could spread more widely or are known to be problem species elsewhere; (3) confirm the

absence of species that are a problem elsewhere and, if introduced to Palau, could be a threat there; and

(4) make appropriate recommendations (see Annex 1 for the draft list from this survey). The final report

on this survey is due to be published in mid-2003.

2.2 Invasive animal species

The NTFIAS is still in the initial stages of organization since its creation by Executive Order No. 207 in

April 2002 (see Annex 1). It has met several times since its inception to list all invasive animal species

(including insects) present in Palau and to identify their range, what level of threat each of them pose

and what actions should be taken to manage them. Using a broad definition of invasive animals

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(“Invasive animals are non-native animals, including insects, which have been introduced to Palau, tend

to increase in population, spread and have a negative impact on health, biodiversity, farming, tourism,

the environment or the economy”), the NTFIAS has prepared a survey (see Annex 4) to be conducted in

all 16 states to identify which animal invasives should be prioritized and be the focus of initial efforts.

⇒

Rat control and eradication efforts

The two main agencies involved in rat control efforts in the Republic are the Koror State Rangers and

the Division of Environmental Health. The Koror State Rangers have been using various techniques to

control rats on some of the Rock Islands that are frequently visited by locals and tourists. The Division

of Environmental Health has also done rat control in some of the urban areas of Palau. They have rat

bait stations for the public to use if necessary, which are available upon request. Both of these agencies

are interested in further training and technical assistance in rat control and eradication.

It is likely that rats are having a severe negative effect on Palau’s biodiversity, especially birds. There is

also interest in conducting a study to look at the population densities of birds on some of the rock

islands with high populations of rats, followed by a series of eradication and monitoring efforts over

time to see if bird populations increase with the absence of rats and by how much.

⇒

Helen Reef rat eradication project

The only rat eradication project to date in Palau was conducted on Helen Island in 2001. In 1996, two

confiscated fishing vessels from the Philippines were anchored and abandoned at Helen Island located

in the Southwest Islands of Palau, approximately 200 miles southwest of the main archipelago.

Inadvertently, this event introduced rats to the island, which was previously believed not to harbor alien

rat species (Maragos et al. 1994). This introduction was of concern to the community, which quickly

initiated a rat control program. These efforts to control rats failed, due to inappropriate rodenticide

choice and incomplete bait delivery.

The Helen Reef Atoll is a priority conservation site for marine and coastal biodiversity protection in the

Pacific. The Community Conservation Network worked with the community of Hatohobei State to

develop a management plan for enhancing the conservation of the Helen Reef ecosystem and its

resources. One of the activities identified by preliminary planning efforts was the eradication of recently

introduced rats to Helen Reef Island. Rats were viewed as one of the primary threats to the continued

existence to ground dwelling sea birds, as well as a serious impact on the reproduction of threatened

nesting sea turtle populations. The project proposed to implement a complete eradication of rats on

Helen Island, as well as to incorporate preventive measures and policies to reduce the likelihood of rat

reintroduction on the island. The community participated in all aspects of planning and implementation

of the project, with expert advice, as a means of furthering involvement and experiences with

management efforts. The project was implemented successfully with assistance from the Division of

Environmental Health and the Environmental Quality Protection Board (see Annex 5 for the original

proposal and more details of the project).

⇒

Tilapia and city pigeons

In October 2002, tilapia - an invasive fish - was discovered in a small landlocked body of water in

Palau. Around the same time, city pigeons were discovered that had been brought into Palau illegally.

Some of the pigeons were said to have been in Palau for approximately 15-20 years, most being kept in

people’s houses as pets. All of the pigeons kept as pets have been euthanized except for five that are

being kept for disease screening. Some of the owners say that a few pigeons escaped, which means that

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the potential for them to establish themselves in the wild still exists. It is still uncertain who was

responsible for the import of these pigeons.

The person thought to be responsible for the tilapia introduction was questioned about where the fish

came from and what it was being used for and responded that it was sold locally, and was imported

from several neighboring countries. Subsequent investigations into the spread of tilapia have found the

fish in several different locations in the Republic, including an old dry dock, a quarry pond, a collection

of shallow pools, an old water tank, etc.. Tilapia is a hardy fish that can survive in extreme conditions

and can out-compete most of the native fish of Palau. The release of this fish into open waters is very

likely to be devastating to the ecology of Palau’s freshwater ecosystems.

The tilapia eradication effort has been undertaken by several government agencies, including the

Division of Fire Protection, Division of Fish and Wildlife Protection, the Environmental Quality

Protection Board and many local volunteers. Taking account of government expenditure and very

generous donations from concerned citizens, residents and commercial businesses, the Republic has

spent in excess of US$60,000 for chlorine, rotenone (a fish poison), overtime expenses, gasoline and

diesel fuel for generators and water pumps, dynamite, safety equipment, and other expenses in order to

try and eliminate the serious threat that tilapia poses. This rough estimate does not include the countless

hours of volunteer work, research and equipment donations that have also supported the effort to save

Palau’s freshwater ecosystems and the biological diversity they contain (see Annex 6 for the press

release on Tilapia and City Pigeons published in the local newspaper in October 2002).

⇒

Longtailed macaque monkeys

The longtailed macaque (Macacca fascicularis) occurs on the island of Angaur (Ngeaur), a small 830

ha coral atoll in the Republic of Palau, and the easternmost location for Macacca fascicularis in the

Pacific. These animals are significantly smaller in body weight and other morphological dimensions

than populations of longtailed macaques found elsewhere (Matsubayashi et al. 1989). These monkeys

were introduced to the island during the German occupation, probably between 1909 and 1914 when

phosphate mining began (Potrier and Smith 1974, Wheatley et al. 1997). It is likely that the monkeys

have negative effects on the biodiversity of the island. The local people consider the macaques of

Angaur a major agricultural pest because they raid gardens, eating oranges, bananas, coconuts and,

especially taro.

In response, the State Government of Ngeaur put a bounty on monkeys. While approximately 300

monkeys were killed during this bounty, it did not seem to have much of an effect on the population.

The macaques have been sighted in the wild occasionally in parts of Airai on Palau’s largest island,

Babeldaob and in the Rock Islands. The potential for these animals to colonize other islands is high and

would result in significant environmental and agricultural damage. The NTFIAS is currently looking for

assistance in conducting a feasibility study for eradication of the macaques on the island of Angaur.

⇒

Fruit flies

There are three species of fruit fly that are problematic in Palau. The report by Allwood et al. (1999)

contains information on the distribution and economic consequences of fruit flies in Palau. The major

change in the fruit fly situation in Palau is the vastly increased losses now occurring as a result of the

oriental fruit fly numbers increasing and the host range expanding. This is typical of species, like many

of the ‘dorsalis’ complex fruit flies, which have been recently introduced into new areas.

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There are two species of fruit flies, which are attracted to methyl eugenol (oriental fruit fly and

breadfruit fly) and one species attracted to cue-lure (mango fly B. frauenfeldi). A fourth species, B.

calophylli, is not attracted to either lure: however, it is not an economically significant species as it only

occurs in the wild fruit of a native tree, Calophyllum inophyllum. The distribution of oriental fruit fly in

Palau is now well known, with the exception of information from Southwest Islands, where trapping

still has to be done. It occurs on all islands, including the Rock Islands, Kayangel and Peleliu. The

number of traps currently being serviced by DAMR has changed only marginally. Two extra traps have

been placed on two Rock Islands to give better coverage than in 1999.

The Bureau of Agriculture’s Fruit Fly Program is currently conducting fruit fly egg and larval thermal

mortality tests on the three flies. This is being done to develop quarantine treatments for potential

export of fruits and vegetables to Guam and other locations. The purpose of the thermal mortality tests

is to determine the most heat-tolerant fruit fly life stage(s) by immersing early- and late-aged eggs, first

instars, and feeding and non- feeding third instars larvae in a controlled- temperature water bath for

selected time and temperature combinations. The thermal mortality test will determine a correct

temperature required to treat fruits and fleshy vegetables against a specific fruit fly species for export.

The Fruit Fly Program also plans in the near future to conduct non-host status tests. Determination of

non-host status involves the testing of fresh fruits and vegetables for their susceptibility to fruit fly

infestations to a specified standard. It is an important method in quarantine treatments as it is relatively

fast and simple to do, less costly than other treatments, environmentally friendly, permanently

established and accepted by quarantine authorities.

An implementation plan for the eradication of the two fruit flies attracted to methyl eugenol (oriental

fruit fly and breadfruit fly) was developed in 2001 with funding from the Secretariat of the Pacific

Community (“Fruit Fly Management - Pest Management in the Pacific Project”, see Annex 7). The

Republic is currently seeking funding for the implementation of this plan. In the interim, it is working to

build the capacity of quarantine officers and to increase the number of quarantine staff before

implementation commences.

2.3 Marine invasive species

Currently, no organization or agency is working on marine invasives. Information gathered from the

Coral Reef Research Foundation indicates that the only introduced marine species that is showing

invasive behaviour is a recently introduced hydroid,

Eudendrium carneum.

The hydroid was

introduced in July 1997 when a floating bridge was brought over from Guangzhou City in Southern

China to be used to temporarily connect Koror and Babeldaob after the KB Bridge collapsed in

September 1996. Since its introduction, the hydroid has spread rapidly (approximately 3-4 kilometers in

each direction in the channel). Funding and technical assistance is needed to begin a monitoring

protocol for the nation’s marine invasives (see Annex 3 for more detailed information on marine

invasive species in Palau, provided by Dr. Patrick L.Colin of the Coral Reef Research Foundation).

2.4 GIS and mapping

The Office of the Palau Automated Land and Resource Information System (PALARIS), Palau’s

national GIS system, is a key player in tackling both plant and animal IAS. The Bureau of Agriculture,

the Bureau of Lands and Surveys in partnership with the Palau Community College-Agriculture

Department, and PALARIS have surveyed and mapped the grass, Imperata cylindrical, in Airai State

(see map, Annex 8). The team plans to continue to monitor and treat this grass with herbicides regularly

119

over the next 3 to 5 years until it is completely eradicated. The team is now able to track its progress

and detect any potential spreading of this grass.

The eradication team also surveyed and mapped 18 sites of Mikania micrantha in Koror State for

ongoing monitoring (see map, Annex 9). The team has also located and begun the eradication of the

African Tulip tree (Spathodea campanulata) which is now found in five States. Future work will

include surveying and mapping more species and new infestation sites for onging monitoring.

Work on Palau’s invasive animal species is expected to start in 2003 with cooperation from the

NTFIAS and PALARIS. One project involves the surveying and mapping of the invasive alien marine

species, Eudendrium carneum, the hydroid that was brought in from the floating bridge back in 1997

(see 2.3 above).

3. Government departments/agencies and other organisations concerned with IAS

The Palau Natural Resources Council and the National Task Force on Invasive Animal Species consist

of various government and semi-government agencies as well as non-government organizations.

3.1 Palau Natural Resource Council members

The Palau Natural Resources Council was established in 2000 and has been meeting regularly since its

inception. The Council’s mandate is broad and its main function is to provide for proper coordination

and cooperation among all agencies, individuals and organizations involved in managing land-based

natural resources. Its vision statement is: “People working together to ensure the use and management

of Palau’s natural resources is in harmony with the environment and culture”. Its mission statement is:

“The council shall provide leadership for the wise use and sustainable management of Palau’s (land-

based) natural resources using appropriate technology. To accomplish its mission the council shall

cooperate and coordinate with other organizations, agencies, groups and individuals.” IAS issues are

one of the main areas the Council focuses its efforts.

The Council’s members and contact details are as follows:

Bureau of Agriculture (BOA), [email protected]

Environmental Quality Protection Board (EQPB), [email protected]

Office of Environmental Response and Coordination (OERC), [email protected]

Palau Conservation Society (PCS), [email protected]

Palau Community Action Agency (PCAA)

Office of the Palau Automated Land and Resource Information System (PALARIS),

[email protected]

Bureau of Lands and Surveys, [email protected]

Peace Corps Volunteers (PCV)

The Nature Conservancy (TNC), [email protected]

Palau Community College-Agriculture Department (PCC-Ag), cy[email protected]

Palau Community College-Cooperative Research and Extension (PCC-CRE), [email protected]

Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS), [email protected]

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3.2 National Task Force on Invasive Animal Species Members

As noted, the Task Force was created by Executive Order No. 207 (see Annex 1) in April 2002 and is

still in the initial stages of organization. Its members and contact details are as follows:

Minister of Resources and Development, Chairman, m[email protected]

Minister of Justice, Vice-Chairman, [email protected]

Director of the Bureau of Agriculture, Member, [email protected]

Director of the Bureau of Domestic Affairs, Member, stellam[email protected]

The Office of Environmental Response and Coordination, Member, ercpalau@hotmail.com

The Palau Conservation Society, Member, [email protected]

The Nature Conservancy, Member, [email protected]

The USDA-Natural Resource Conservation Service, Member, [email protected]

4. Priorities identified for future work

4.1 Invasive plant species

The main priorities identified by the Invasive Weed Committee are to increase public awareness,

prevent new entries, control or stop spread, eradication and to support efforts of others. Ongoing public

education and awareness efforts include press releases, community meetings, radio interviews, posters,

booklets, leaflets and annual invasive weed clean ups.

Biological control agents have been released for Chromolaena odorata and Mimosa diplotricha.

Physical control measures are being used to target Mikania micrantha and Merremia peltata. Chemical

control measures are being used to target Imperata cylindrica and Spathodea campanulata. Another

species that will soon be targeted for eradication is the vine Antigonon leptopus, chain of love. Several

species on the ISSG list (Lowe et al. 2000) are not yet targeted for control or eradication due to limited

resources. These are: Clidemia hirta, Lantana camara, Leucaena leucocephola and Wedelia trilobata.

Future work includes the development of management plans for each invasive plant species. See Annex

10 for more detailed information on eradication efforts for Imperata cylindrica.

4.2 Invasive animal species

The main priorities and target species for the NTFIAS are currently being developed. The species that

have a high level of threat are most likely the ones that will be prioritized for immediate action. These

are: the macaque monkey (Macaca fascicularis), musk shrew (believed to be Suncus murinus), rats and

mice, pig, mosquitos, fruit flies (Dorsalis bactrocera philipinensis and D. bactrocera occipitalis) and

rhinoceros beetle (Oryctes rhinoceros). The findings from the invasive animal survey conducted in all

16 states will influence which species efforts will be put towards. Many of the invasive animal species

require off-island assistance. Availability of this assistance will also influence the species on which

management efforts are focused.

121

5. List of experts working in the field of biological invasions

Dr. Joel Miles – Palau Community College, [email protected]

Dr. Nelson Esguerra – PCC-CRE, [email protected]

Ms. Pua Michaels – Bureau of Agriculture, [email protected]

Mr. Kashgar Rengulbai – Bureau of Agriculture, [email protected]

Mr. Trebkul Tellei – Bureau of Agriculture, [email protected]

Mr. Fred Sengebau – Bureau of Agriculture, [email protected]

Ms. Kelly Raleigh Moses – Office of PALARIS, [email protected]

Ms. Robin DeMeo – USDA NRCS, [email protected]

Ms. Tarita Holm – OERC, [email protected]

Mr. Henson Deltang – PCS, [email protected]

Mrs. Ann Kitalong – The Environment, Inc., kitalong@hotmail.com

Mr. Joe Tiobech – BOA, [email protected]

Mr. David Hinchley – TNC, [email protected]

Mr. Alex Sumor – Division of Environmental Health, [email protected]

Mr. Godwin Siliang – Division of Environmental Health, [email protected]

Mr. Adalbert Eledui – Koror State Rangers, [email protected]

Mr. Harry Blesam – Koror State Rangers, [email protected]

Dr. Pat Colin – Coral Reef Research Foundation, [email protected]

122

6. Bibliographic references

(see Pacific Islands Ecosystem at Risk (http://www.hear.org/pier/)

Bells, Youlsau and E. Daniels. 2002. First National Communication to the United Nations Framework

Convention on Climate Change. Office of Environmental Response and Coordination.

Esguerra, N.M., J.A. Phillip, and W.S.William. 1990. Survey of pests of crops in the Federated State of

Micronesia (Entomology Portion). College of Micronesia Land Grant Programs. Extension Report

No. 1: 58 pp.

Lowe, S., M. Browne, S. Boudjelas, M. de Poorter. 2000. 100 of the world’s worst invasive alien species: a

selection from the Global Invasive Species Database. IUCN Invasive Species Specialist Group.

http://issg.appfa.auckland.ac.nz/database/reference/sourcesGW.asp

Muniappan, R., J.G. Duenas, and T. Blas. 1980. Biological control of the Palau coconut beetle, Brontispa

palauensis (Esaki and Chujo) on Guam. Micronesica 16: 359-360.

Muniappan, R., N.M. Esguerra and L.Austin. 1999. Survey of insect pests of crops and invasive weeds in the

Republic of Palau. Palau Community College, Cooperative Research and Extension. 9-39 pp.

Muniappan, R. 1995. South Pacific Commission – German Biological Control Project – A progress report.

Harvest 17: 43-50.

Nafus, D. 1991. Movement of new insects into the Carolines and Marshalls in recent years. Micronesia

Suppl. 3: 15-31.

Nafus, D. and I. Schreiner. 1998. Biological control activities in the Mariana Islands from 1911 to 1988.

Micronesica 22: 65-106.

Schreiner, I. 1989. Biological control introductions in the Carolines and Marshall Islands. Proceedings,

Hawaiian Entomology Society 29: 57-69.

Sherley, G. 2000. Invasive species in the Pacific: a technical review and draft regional strategy. South

Pacific Regional Environment Programme.

Space, J.C., Waterhouse, B.M., Miles, J.E., Tiobech, J. and K. Rengulbai. 2003. Report to the Republic of

Palau on Invasive Plant Species of Environmental Concern. USDA—Forest Service, Honolulu. 179

pp.

Waterhouse, D.F. 1993. The major arthropod pests and weeds of agriculture in Southeast Asia: distribution,

importance and origin. ACIAR Canberra, Australia. 141 pp.

Waterhouse, D.F. and K.R. Norris. 1987. Biological control: Pacific prospects. Inkata Press, Melbourne. 454

pp.

Waterhouse, D.F. and P. Ferrar. 1997. Proceedings, Second Workshop on Biological Control in the Pacific.

SPC. Noumea. 182 pp.

Wheatley, B.P., Stephenson, R. and H. Kurashina. 1999. The effects of hunting on the longtailed macaques

of Ngeaur Island, Palau. In: Dolhinow, P and A. Fuentes (eds.). The nonhuman primates. Mayfield

Publishers, Mountain View, pp. 159-163.

Yudin, L.S. and O.F.Butz. 1998. Guam Fruit and Vegetable Pesticide Guide. Guam Cooperative Extension.

109 pp.

123

Annexes

Annex 1: (Draft) Lists of Invasive Plants from the Report to the Republic of Palau

on Invasive Plant Species of Environmental Concern (January 2003)

Annex 2: Executive Order No. 207 establishing a National Task Force on

Invasive Animal Species

Annex 3: Status of Marine Invasive Species in the Republic of Palau

Annex 4: Invasive Animal Survey by the National Task Force on

Invasive Animal Species

Annex 5: Project for the Eradication of Alien Rats on Helen Island, Helen Reef,

Hatohobei State, Republic of Palau, Micronesia

Annex 6: Press Release on Tilapia and City Pigeons (25 October 2002)

Annex 7: Implementation Plan for Palau Fruit Fly Eradication Program (July 2001)

Annex 8: Map of Imperata cylindrica: treated areas

Annex 9: Map of Mikania micrantha infestations in Koror

Annex 10: Case study: Imperata cylindrica in Palau

124

Annex 1

Taken from the draft “Report to the Republic of Palau

on Invasive Plant Species of Environmental Concern”

J.C. Space, B.M. Waterhouse, J.E. Miles, J. Tiobech, and K. Rengulbai

USDA – Forest Service

January 17, 2003

Table A. Priority species for exclusion from Palau

Scientific name Common names (abridged) Family Invasive in:

Acacia aulacocarpa brown salwood Fabaceae Cook Islands

Acacia crassicarpa Redwood Fabaceae Cook Islands

Acacia curassavica

northern wattle, Papua New

Guinea red wattle

Fabaceae Cook Islands

Albizia chinensis Chinese albizia, silktree Fabaceae Samoa

Ardisia elliptica shoebutton ardisia Myrsinaceae

Cook Islands, French Polynesia,

Hawai‘i, Samoa and USA (Florida)

Cardiospermum

grandiflorum

balloon vine; heart seed Sapindaceae Cook Islands (Rarotonga)

Carludovica palmata Panama hat plant Cyclanthaceae Samoa (Upolu)

Castilla elastica Panama rubber tree Moraceae Samoa

Cecropia obtusifolia trumpet tree, guarumo Cecropiaceae Hawai'i, Cook Islands

Cecropia peltata trumpet tree Cecropiaceae French Polynesia

Cestrum diurnum day cestrum Solanaceae Cook Islands

Cestrum nocturnum night-flowering cestrum Solanaceae

Cook Islands, French Polynesia (Tahiti),

Samoa, Tonga

Clerodendrum

chinense

Honolulu rose Lamiaceae Samoa, Tonga and elsewhere

Coccinia grandis

ivy gourd, scarlet-fruited

gourd

Cucurbitaceae Hawai‘i, Saipan

Cordia alliodora Ecuador laurel, salmwood Boraginaceae Samoa, Tonga, Vanuatu

Cryptostegia

grandiflora

rubber vine, India rubber vine Asclepiadaceae Australia (Queensland)

Eugenia uniflora Surinam cherry Myrtaceae Cook Islands

Funtumia elastica African rubber tree Apocynaceae Samoa

Hiptage benghalensis hiptage Malpighiaceae Hawai'i, La Réunion, Mauritius

Indigofera suffruticosa indigo Fabaceae Tonga and elsewhere

Macfadyena unguis-

cati

cat's-claw climber Bignoniaceae Hawai'i, Niue, New Caledonia

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Scientific name Common names (abridged) Family Invasive in:

Maesopsis eminii umbrella tree, musizi Rhamnaceae Fiji

Merremia tuberosa wood rose Convolvulaceae Hawai‘i, Niue

Miconia calvescens

miconia, velvetleaf, purple

plague, bush currant

Melastomataceae French Polynesia, Hawai'i

Mucuna pruriens cow itch, velvet bean Fabaceae Saipan

Odontonema

tubaeforme

fire spike, cardinal flower Acanthaceae American Samoa, Samoa

Passiflora spp.

all Passifloraceae not already

present

Passifloraceae

Passiflora tarminiana

banana poka, banana

passionfruit, bananadilla

Passifloraceae Hawai’i

Phyllostachys spp. running bamboos Poaceae

Hawai‘i (P. nigra), Cook Islands (P.

bissetii)

Pimenta dioica pimento, allspice Myrtaceae Hawai‘i, Tonga

Pimenta. racemosa bay tree Myrtaceae Cook Islands

Piper aduncum spiked pepper Piperaceae

Fiji, Papua New Guinea, Solomon

Islands, Indonesia, Malaysia

Piper auritum eared pepper, false kava Piperaceae Hawai‘i, Pohnpei, Tonga

Rubus spp.

raspberries, blackberries,

brambles

Rosaceae Hawai‘i, French Polynesia, etc.

Schinus

terebinthifolius

Christmas-berry, Brazilian

pepper

Anacardiaceae USA (Hawai‘i, Florida)

Setaria palmifolia palmgrass, short pitpit Poaceae

Hawai‘i, French Polynesia (Tahiti),

Samoa

Solanum capsicoides

cockroach berry, devil’s apple,

soda apple

Solanaceae Hawai‘i, Samoa, Tonga

Solanum mauritianum

bugweed, wild tobacco, tree

tobacco

Solanaceae Hawai‘i, Tonga

Tibouchina herbacea glorybush, cane ti, tibouchina Melastomataceae Hawai’i

Trubulus cistoides puncture vine Zygophyllaceae Hawai‘i

All grasses

all other grass species not

already present

Poaceae pan-tropical

All melastomes

all other non-native

melastomes

Melastomataceae Hawai'i, etc.

Note: Appendix 1, Table A is a complete list of IAS and potential IAS of environmental concern not yet present in

Palau. Appendix 1, Table B contains a list of other IAS not reported to be present in Palau.

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Table B. Cultivated species of possible threat to Palau

Scientific name

Common names

(abridged)

Family Present on: Invasive in:

Acacia

farnesiana

Ellington curse, klu Fabaceae Babeldaob

Fiji, French Polynesia, New

Caledonia, Solomon Islands,

Vanuatu

Asparagus

densiflorus

asparagus fern,

sprengeri fern, smilax,

regal fern

Liliaceae Koror, Ngerekebesang Hawai‘i

Calotropis

gigantea

calotrope, crown

flower, madar

Ascelepiadaceae

Koror, Ngerekebesang,

Babeldaob, Peleliu

Australia (Queensland),

Timor

Cinnamomum

verum

ochod ra ngebard,

cinnamon tree

Lauraceae

reported present, no

location given

American Samoa, Cook

Islands, Samoa

Cyperus

alternifolius

umbrella sedge Cyperaceae Koror Cook Islands, Tonga

Eichhornia

crassipes

bung el ralm, water

hyacinth

Pontederiaceae

Koror, Ngerekebesang,

Babeldaob

pantropical

Elaeocarpus

angustifolius

blue fig, blue marble

tree

Elaeocarpaceae

reported present, no

location given

Samoa

Flemingia

macrophylla

Fabaceae

Koror,

Airai

Cook Islands, Samoa

Hevea

brasiliensis

Brazilian rubber tree Euphorbiaceae Koror, Babeldaob

Christmas Island (Indian

Ocean)

Murraya

paniculata

orange jessamine,

satin-wood, Chinese

box

Rutaceae

Upolu

Koror, Babeldaob

French Polynesia, Hawai‘i;

host to citrus psyllid

Nymphaea spp. Waterlily Nymphaeaceae Koror pantropical

Pennisetum

setaceum

fountain grass Poaceae

Ngerekebesang,

Babeldaob

USA (California, Hawai‘i),

Canary Islands

Quisqualis indica Rangoon creeper Combretaceae

Ngerekebesang,

Babeldaob

Australia (Northern

Territories)

Sanchezia

parvibracteata

Sanchezia Acanthaceae

Koror, Malakal,

Ngerekebesang

Hawai‘i

Sesbania

grandiflora

katurai, sesbania,

scarlet wisteria

Fabaceae

Koror, Malakal,

Babeldaob

American Samoa, Samoa

Spathodea

campanulata

African tulip tree Bignoniaceae

Koror, Ngerekebesang,

Babeldaob

Fiji, French Polynesia,

Hawai'i, Samoa, Vanuatu

Syzygium cumini

Mesekerrák, Java

plum

Myrtaceae

Koror, Babeldaob,

Aulupse‘el

Cook Islands, Hawai‘i,

French Polynesia (Raiatea)

Syzygium jambos

malabar plum, Malay

apple

Myrtaceae Koror, Babeldaob

French Polynesia, Galapagos

Islands, Mauritius, La

Réunion

Tabebuia

heterophylla

pink tecoma, pink

trumpet tree, white

cedar

Bignoniaceae

Koror, Malakal,

Ngerekebesang

Hawai‘i

Vitex parviflora small-leaved vitex Verbenaceae

reported present, no

location given

Guam

Note: See Appendix 1, Tables B and C for a complete list of cultivated plants with invasive potential.

All invasive plant species are not present on all islands. As would be expected, the islands of Koror,

Malakal, Ngerekebesang and Babeldaob have most of the weedy species; there are significantly fewer

on the outer islands. However, a few unique species occur on Peleliu and Angaur. Kayangel, Sonsorol

127

and Hatohobei have the fewest invasive plants. Thus, there is the opportunity to prevent the movement

and establishment of invasive plants on new islands, either through quarantine procedures or by

surveying for and rapidly responding to new infestations. Table C shows critical species that should be

subject to restrictions on inter-island movement or promptly eradicated if found. Appendix 5 shows, for

each island, all the invasive species that are not present there but are present elsewhere in Palau.

Because they have few invasive plants, exclusion of new species is especially important for the

southwest islands. Appendix 5, Tables 7 and 8 show species present elsewhere in Palau that are not yet

present in these islands.

Table C. Critical species that should be subject to inter-island quarantine

Scientific name Common name Present on:

Acacia farnesiana

Ellington curse, klu, sweet

acacia

Babeldaob

Adenanthera pavonina

telengtúngd, telentundalel,

coral bean tree

Koror, Malakal, Ngerekebesang, Babeldaob

Allamanda cathartica

shimizu , allamanda, yellow

trumpet vine

Koror, Malakal, Ngerekebesang, Babeldaob

Alternanthera

brasiliana

Brazilian joyweed, Joseph’s

coat

Koror, Malakal, Carp

Antigonon leptopus dilngau, chain of love Koror, Babeldaob

Arundo donax giant reed Koror, Babeldaob

Asparagus densiflorus asparagus fern, sprengeri fern Koror, Ngerekebesang

Calotropis gigantea

calotrope, crown flower,

madar

Koror, Ngerekebesang, Babeldaob, Peleliu

Chromolaena odorata ngesngesil, Siam weed

Koror, Malakal, Ngerekebesang, Babeldaob, Angaur,

Peleliu, Ngidech

Cinnamomum verum

ochod ra ngebard, cinnamon

tree

Not known

Clerodendrum

quadriloculare

kleuang, bronze-leaved

clerodendrum

Koror, Malakal, Ngerekebesang, Babeldaob, Angaur,

Kayangel, Peleliu, Carp

Clidemia hirta kúi, Koster’s curse Malakal, Babeldaob

Cyperus alternifolius deus, umbrella sedge Koror

Dieffenbachia seguine

spotted dieffenbachia, dumb

cane

Koror, Malakal, Ngerekebesang, Babeldaob, Peleliu

Dissotis rotundifolia dissotis, pink lady Koror, Babeldaob

Eichhornia crassipes bung el ralm, water hyacinth Koror, Ngerekebesang, Babeldaob

Elaeocarpus

angustifolius

blue fig, blue marble tree Not known

Falcataria moluccana

ukall ra ngebard, Moluccca

albizia

Koror, Babeldaob

Flemingia macrophylla Koror, Babeldaob

Hedychium coronarium white ginger Koror, Ngerekebesang

Hevea brasiliensis

Brazilian rubber tree, Para

rubber tree

Koror, Babeldaob

Hyptis pectinata mint weed Babeldaob, Angaur?

Imperata cylindrica

kasoring, blady grass, cogon

grass

Babeldaob

Ipomoea hederifolia

ivy-leaf morning glory, star

ipomoea

Babeldaob

Lantana camara lantana

Koror, Malakal, Ngerekebesang, Babeldaob, Angaur,

Peleliu, Carp

128

Scientific name Common name Present on:

Leucaena leucocephala telengtungd, leucaena

Koror, Malakal, Ngerekebesang, Babeldaob, Angaur,

Peleliu, Carp, Ngerchong, Sonsorol

Macroptilium

lathyroides

cow pea, phasey bean Babeldaob

Melaleuca

quinquenervia

cajeput, paper bark tree Babeldaob

Melia azedarach

Chinaberry, pride-of-India,

Indian lilac

Koror, Babeldaob

Melinis minutiflora molasses grass Babeldaob

Merremia peltata kebeas, merremia Koror, Malakal, Ngerekebesang, Babeldaob, Kayangel

Mikania micrantha

teb el yas, mile-a-minute

weed

Peleliu, Koror, Ngerkebesang, Babeldaob, Malakal

Mimosa diplotricha

mechiuaiuu, giant sensitive

plant

Koror, Malakal, Ngerekebesang, Babeldaob, Angaur

Mimosa pudica mechiuaiuu, sensitive plant Koror, Malakal, Ngerekebesang, Babeldaob, Angaur

Panicum maximum Guinea grass Koror, Babeldaob

Pennisetum

polystachion

desum, mission grass Koror, Malakal, Ngerekebesang, Babeldaob, Peleliu

Pennisetum setaceum fountain grass Ngerekebesang, Babeldaob

Pluchea carolinensis sour bush Peleliu

Psidium cattleianum strawberry guava Koror?

Psidium guajava guabang, kuabang, guava

Koror, Malakal, Ngerekebesang, Babeldaob, Angaur,

Peleliu, Bkul a Chesemiich, Ngerchong

Scindapsus aureus pothos, money plant Koror, Malakal, Ngerekebesang, Babeldaob

Sesbania grandiflora

katurai, hummingbird tree,

scarlet wisteria tree

Koror, Malakal, Babeldaob

Solanum torvum prickly solanum, devil’s fig Babeldaob

Stachytarpheta

cayennensis

louch beluu, blue rat’s tail,

dark blue snakeweed

Koror, Malakal, , Babeldaob, Angaur, Kayangel, Peleliu,

Ngidech, Urukthapel

Syngonium angustatum

arrowhead plant, goosefoot

plant

Koror, Malakal, Ngerekebesang, Babeldaob, Angaur,

Peleliu

Tephrosia candida white tephrosia Babeldaob

Thunbergia grandiflora

bungel ‘l etiu, blue trumpet

vine, Bengal trumpet

Koror, Babeldaob, Kayangel

Timonius timon liberal

Ngerekebesang, Angaur, Peleliu, Kayangel, Bkul a

Chesemiich, Carp, Ngerchong, Ngchelobel, Ngeanges

Turnera

ulmifolia/subulata

yellow alder, sage rose/white

alder

Koror, Malakal, Ngerekebesang, Babeldaob, Angaur,

Peleliu

Vitex parviflora small-leaved vitex not known

Wedelia trilobata

ngesil ra ngebard, Singapore

daisy

Koror, Malakal, Ngerekebesang, Babeldaob, Angaur,

Peleliu

Note: This table lists only the most serious invasive plants of environmental concern. See Appendix 5 for

complete lists of species not yet present on each island or island group.

Table D shows the most serious invasive plant species in Palau and summarizes recommendations for

their management. In a number of cases, more detailed information and recommendations follow the

table.

129

Table D. Summary of major IAS present in Palau with recommendations for their management

Scientific name

Common names

(abridged)

Family

Comments and

recommendations

*†

Acacia farnesiana

Ellington curse, klu,

sweet acacia

Fabaceae Eradicate

Adenanthera pavonina

telengtúngd,

telentundalel, coral bean

tree

Fabaceae

Control as needed in sensitive and

natural areas

Allamanda cathartica

shimizu, allamanda,

yellow trumpet vine

Apocynaceae

Discourage planting; remove when

a problem

Alternanthera brasiliana

Brazilian joyweed,

Joseph’s coat

Amaranthaceae

Discontinue planting; be alert to

escapes from cultivation; eradicate

single plant on Carp island and

other isolated plantings

Antigonon leptopus dilngau, chain of love Polygonaceae

Discourage further planting; work

to eradicate over time

Arundo donax giant reed Poaceae

Limit burning; control as needed

in sensitive and natural areas

*†

Asparagus densiflorus

asparagus fern, sprengeri

fern

Liliaceae Eradicate

†

Barleria lupulina

hophead, Philippine

violet

Acanthaceae Eradicate if of limited extent

Bryophyllum pinnatum life plant Crassulaceae Control outside of cultivation

Calotropis gigantea

calotrope, crown flower,

madar

Ascelepiadaceae Monitor for spread

Casuarina equisetifolia

ngas, casuarina,

ironwood, Australian pine

Casuarinaceae

Eradicate on Tobi and Helen’s

Reef; exclude from Sonsorol and

other islands of Sonsorol State

consider removal from beaches in

Rock Islands

Chromolaena odorata ngesngesil, Siam weed Asteraceae

Introduce and maintain biological

control agents

Chrysopogon aciculatus

iul, Mackie’s pest,

lovegrass

Poaceae

Provide advice on control to

Sonsorol and Tobi; promptly

eradicate if found on new islands

Cinnamomum verum

ochod ra ngebard,

cinnamon tree

Lauraceae

Eradicate if found and of limited

extent

Clerodendrum

quadriloculare

kleuang, bronze-leaved

clerodendrum

Lamiaceae

Discourage planting and dumping

of cuttings; control outside of

cultivation; evaluate for possible

eradication on Peleliu and Angaur

Clidemia hirta kúi, Koster’s curse Melastomataceae

Evaluate extent and the possibility

of eradication; request technical

assistance for evaluation if needed

*†

Cyperus alternifolius

subsp. flabelliformis

deus, umbrella sedge Cyperaceae Eradicate if of limited extent

Dieffenbachia seguine

spotted dieffenbachia,

dumb cane

Araceae Remove outside of cultivation

Dissotis rotundifolia dissotis, pink lady Melastomataceae

Discourage planting and dumping

of garden waste; control escaped

populations as needed

Eichhornia crassipes

bung el ralm, water

hyacinth

Pontederiaceae Eradicate if of limited extent

130

Scientific name

Common names

(abridged)

Family

Comments and

recommendations

Elaeocarpus

angustifolius

blue fig, blue marble tree Elaeocarpaceae

Evaluate for invasiveness or

eradicate if found and of limited

extent

Falcataria moluccana

ukall ra ngebard,

Moluccca albizia

Fabaceae

Evaluate reproduction and spread

(low priority); discourage further

planting; control in sensitive and

natural areas as needed

Flemingia macrophylla Fabaceae

Discontinue planting, control

outside of cultivation; eradicate if

possible

Gmelina elliptica kalngebard ra belau Lamiaceae Do not introduce to new islands

Hedychium coronarium white ginger Zingiberaceae Control outside of cultivation

Hemigraphis alternata metal leaf, red ivy Acanthaceae Control outside of cultivation

Hevea brasiliensis

Brazilian rubber tree,

Para rubber tree

Euphorbiaceae

Evaluate for invasiveness or

eradicate if of limited extent

Hyptis pectinata mint weed Verbenaceae

Evaluate extent and eradicate if

possible

Imperata cylindrica

kasoring, blady grass,

cogon grass

Poaceae Continue eradication program

*†

Inga edulis ice cream bean Fabaceae

Investigate source and extent,

eradicate

*†

Ipomoea hederifolia

ivy-leaf morning glory,

star ipomoea

Convolvulaceae

Eliminate at the locations where

found; survey for it in the road

seeding; trace source of

contamination

Lantana camara lantana Verbenaceae

Check status of previously

introduced biocontrol agents,

reintroduce or introduce new ones

as appropriate

*†

Macroptilium

lathyroides

cow pea, phasey bean Fabaceae

Eliminate at the locations where

found; survey for it in the road

seeding; trace source of

contamination

Melaleuca

quinquenervia

cajeput, paper bark tree Myrtaceae Monitor for invasiveness

*†

Melia azedarach

Chinaberry, pride-of-

India, Indian lilac

Meliaceae

Trace source and distribution,

eradicate

Melinis minutiflora molasses grass Poaceae

Monitor for spread, especially if

burned; limit burning

Merremia peltata kebeas, merremia Convolvulaceae

Exclude from islands where not

present; provide advice to

landowners on control

Mikania micrantha

teb el yas, mile-a-minute

weed

Asteraceae Continue eradication program

Mimosa diplotricha

mechiuaiuu, giant

sensitive plant

Fabaceae

Check status of previously

introduced biocontrol agents,

reintroduce or introduce new ones

as appropriate; exclude from

islands where not present.;

eradicate on islands with small

populations

131

Scientific name

Common names

(abridged)

Family

Comments and

recommendations

Mimosa pudica

mechiuaiuu, sensitive

plant

Fabaceae

Exclude from Peleliu and other

islands where not present,

eradicate promptly if found

Murraya paniculata

orange jessamine, satin-

wood, Chinese box

Rutaceae

Reduce the number of plants to

prevent spread of the citrus psyllid

if it should be introduced

Panicum maximum Guinea grass Poaceae Limit burning

Pennisetum polystachion desum, mission grass Poaceae

Work to decrease burning and

other disturbance

*†

Pennisetum setaceum fountain grass Poaceae

Trace source and distribution,

eradicate

Pithecellobium dulce

kamatsíri, opiuma,

Madras thorn

Fabaceae

Locate and monitor for

invasiveness

†

Pluchea carolinensis sour bush Asteraceae

Consider for eradication (low

priority)

†

Pluchea indica

Indian fleabane, Indian

pluchea, Indian

camphorweed

Asteraceae

Consider for eradication (low

priority)

Pseuderanthemum

carruthersii

Acanthaceae

Control outside of cultivation;

eradicate on Sonsorol

*†

Psidium cattleianum strawberry guava Myrtaceae Attempt to locate and eradicate

Psidium guajava guabang, kuabang, guava Myrtaceae

Control as needed in sensitive and

natural areas

†

Quisqualis indica Rangoon creeper Combretaceae Monitor for invasiveness

Ricinus communis

gelug, maskerekur,

uluchula skoki, castor

bean

Euphorbiaceae Monitor spread

*†

Schefflera actinophylla octopus tree Araliaceae Confirm eradication

Scindapsus aureus pothos, money plant Araceae

Control outside of cultivation,

especially when growing in

forested area

Sesbania grandiflora

katurai, hummingbird

tree, scarlet wisteria tree

Fabaceae

Discourage further planting;

monitor closely for any spread;

eradicate if it begins to spread

Solanum torvum

prickly solanum, devil’s

fig

Solanaceae

Evaluate for extent and possible

control measures; encourage

landowners to control plants on

their land

Spathodea campanulata

orsachel kui, African tulip

tree

Bignoniaceae Continue eradication program

Stachytarpheta

cayennensis

louch beluu, blue rat’s

tail, dark blue snakeweed

Verbenaceae

Control as needed in sensitive and

natural areas

Stachytarpheta

jamaicensis

louch beluu, blue

porterweed, light blue

snakeweed

Verbenaceae

Control as needed in sensitive and

natural areas

Syngonium angustatum

arrowhead plant,

goosefoot plant

Araceae

Control outside of cultivation,

especially when growing in

forested area

Syzygium cumini mesekerrák, Java plum Myrtaceae Locate, monitor for invasiveness

132

Scientific name

Common names

(abridged)

Family

Comments and

recommendations

Tecoma stans

yellow bells, yellow-

elder, yellow trumpetbush

Bignoniaceae

Monitor for spread, eradicate on

Sonsorol

Tephrosia candida white tephrosia Fabaceae Monitor for spread

Thunbergia grandiflora

bungel ‘l etiu, blue

trumpet vine, Bengal

trumpet

Acanthaceae

Discourage planting; control as

needed; eliminate plants outside of

cultivation; eradicate in Melekeok

and Aimeliik/ Ngatpan; evaluate

for eventual eradication in Koror

Timonius timon Liberal Rubiaceae

Eradicate infestations on the Rock

Islands; discourage planting;

remove individual specimen(s)

planted in Koror and Kayangel

Tradescantia spathacea

kobesos, oyster plant,

boat plant, boat lily,

Moses in a boat

Commelinaceae

Discourage further planting and

dumping; control outside of

cultivation

Tradescantia zebrina wandering jew Commelinaceae

Discourage further planting and

dumping; control outside of

cultivation

Turnera subulata white alder Turneraceae

Discourage further planting;

control outside of cultivation

Turnera ulmifolia yellow alder, sage rose Turneraceae

Discourage further planting;

control outside of cultivation

*†

Vitex parviflora small-leaved vitex Verbenaceae Eradicate if found

Wedelia trilobata

ngesil ra ngebard,

Singapore daisy

Asteraceae

Discourage further planting; local

control as needed; exclude from

islands where not present

*High priority for eradication

† Eradication can probably be accomplished at low cost

133

Annex 2

Executive Order No. 207

Establishing a National Task Force on

Invasive Animal Species

RepublIc o-r Palau

OHi~ ~ ",~ 'O',...il1-",

PO I.. ~61, Pa~, PW 94~

t-I (6'0, 48'-240MRI, fu (6&C) ...ZU4/166t

.~I-IH", ,'...14.- ~PA1-8t. ~

Tommy E. R-Dl-Df...U. Jr.

EXEC{n'IVE ORDER NO.207

Establishing a National Task Force on Invasive Animal Species

WHEREAS, invasive animal species compete wi$ and at the expeJlse of the unique

animal species indigenous to Palau; and

WHEREAS, iJ]vasive animal species represent a threat to both the unique animal s~ies

aJ\d the unique plant life found in Pa!au; and

.WHEREAS, invasive animal species have (I negative impact on agricultural production.

bio-diversity, the health of the inhabitants ofPa!auand the environmental integrity of Palau; and

WHEREAS, several iJlvasivc animal s~ies, including the Long- Tailed Macaque

Mo~~y, the Musk Shrew, and feral pigs, now exist in Palau; and

WHEREAS, the populations of the invasive animal species now existing in Palau ale

thriving; and

WHEREAS, the threat of additional. new invasions by ~imal spocies not indigenous to

Palau is rc:al and will increasc: as more visitors arrive in Palau from more destinations; and

WHEREAS, the Republic of Palau must establish a comprehensive) workable plan to

reduce or eliminate the existing populations of invasive animal ~pecie8 in Palau and to prevent

additional, new invasions in order to protect and preserve the uni9ue animal and plant species of

c c c c , c ,

Palau. maintain al1d restore bio-diversity, and reduce the n~gative impact inva.sivc: animal species

have on agricultural production. the healt11 of the inlJabitatlts ofPalau and the environm~tal

integrity ofPalau,

NOW ,THEREFORE, by the authority vested in me pursuant to the Constitution and laws

of thc: Re:public ofPa]au, I hereby order that a National Task Forcc: on Invasive Animal Spc:cies

(hereinafter "NTFIAS") be, and hereby is, established with the following characteristics,

fWlctions. and responsibilities:

15/2112082

-c~~--

Page 2 of 4

1. ComRosition. The NTFlAS shall be comprised of the following:

Minister of ResoW"ces and Developm~nt, who shall be chaiffi1an;

Minister of Justice, who shall be vice-chairman;

Director of the Bureau of Agriculture or his designee;

Director of the Bureau of Domestic Affairs or his designee;

a member appointed by the Office of Environmental Response and Coordination; and

two members appointed by the Association of Governors.

In addition, at its organizational meeting, the NTFIAS may choose to invite the Palau

Conservation Society and the Nature Conservancy to each appoint one individual to the NTFIAS,

which individual(s) shall have full membership status and all rights and duties appw1enant

thereto. In the event that any membeJ of the NrFIAS is removed or resigns, the entity which

nominated the removed or resigned member shall appoint a replacement.

2. OrganizatiQnal Meeting. The NTF~S shall hold an organizational meeting no

later than fifteen (15) days after the entry of this Order. At such meeting, the NTFIAS shall set

prQcedures for scheduling and holding meetings. allocate responsibilities among the membership,

deteffiline whether or not to invite the participation of the Palau Conservation Society, the Nature

Conservancy, or both, and take such other action as appropriate to organize itself and carry out its

functions.

3. Inventory of Invasive Animal SRecies. The NTFIAS shall conduct an inventory of

the invasive animal species present in Palau. The inventory shall identify each invasive animal

species and, for each, estimate the scope (either in tenns of estimated populations or in te111lS of

r:.stimated area of the territory invaded) of the invasion. To the extent practicable, the inventory

shall also specify how each species was introduced to Palau.

4. Evaluation of Res~nses to Invasive Animal Soecies. The NTFIAS shall

investigate methods to reduce and contain or eradicate each invasive animal species existing in

Pal au. In doing so, the NTFIAS shall consult with knowledgeable individuals in the private

sector and officials of the State and Nationa.l Governments. The NTFIAS may also consult

appropriate representatives of foreign governments or international organizations. The NTFlAS

"Jill evaluate the various responses to invasive a.nimal species in tentlS of effectiveness, cost,

Page 3 of 4

potential collateral impacts on plant and animal species indigenous to Palau, and potential

impacts on the environmental integrity of Palau.

5. Evaluation ofBaITiers to Invasive Animal S12ccies. Thc NTFIAS shall invcstigatc

methods to prevent the introduction of invasive animal species tD Palau. In doing so, the

NTFIAS shall consult with knowledgeable individuals in the private sector and officials of the

State and National Governments. The NTFlAS may also consult appropriate representatives of

foreign governments or international organizations. The NTFIAS will evaluate the various

barriers to invasive animal species in terms of effectiveness, cost. potential collatcral impacts on

plant and animal specics indigenous tD Palau, and potential impacts on the environmentaJ

integrity of Palau.

6. DeveloRment of Com~rehensive Stratei1.ic ResDonse to Invasive Animal S~ecies.

Based on the evaluations described in paragraphs 4 and 5. supra, the NTFIAS shall develop a

comprehensive strategic plan to reduce and contain or eradicate invasive animal species existing

in Palau and to establish barriers to the introduction of invasive animal species to Palau. In

developing the plan, the NTFIAS shall explore sources of funding and technical assistance for

the implementation of the plan. In doing so. the NTFIAS may consult appropriate

representatives of foreign governments or international orgallizations. Options for funding the

implementation of the plan shall be described in the plan.

7 .Com~sation/SugQOrt from the Nationa1 Government. No member of the

NTFIAS shall be compensated for participating as a member of the NTFIAS. However, all

Ministries, offices, and agencies of the Executive Branch are hereby ordered to fully cooperate

with and, as appropriate, lend assistance to. the NTF1AS. Such assistance may include providing

the NTFIAS with space for its offices 0( meetings. detailing support staff to the NTFIAS, and

providing access to supplies and equipment, as appropri.ate, for NTFIAS functions.

8. R~rti!Jg. The NTFIAS shall report to the President on a quarterly basis, fully

describing the status of its efforts and its conclusions as of the date of the given report. The final

report shall consist of the comprehensive strategic plan described in paragraph 6. supra.

Page 4 of 4

9. Thrill. Unless termjnated earlier by Executive Order. the NTFIAS shall terminate

forty-five (45) days after delivery to the President of the comprehensive strategic plan described

in paragraph 6. supra.

SO ORDERED THIS 30111 DA Y OF APRIL, 2002~

134

Annex 3

Status of Marine Invasive Species in the Republic of Palau

Mr. Patrick L. Colin

Coral Reef Research Foundation

P.O. Box 1765

Koror, Palau 96940

Marine invasive alien species (IAS) have the potential to become a problem in Palau. Fortunately at

present it appears there are no marine invasive species that are having a quantifiable effect on fisheries,

marine tourism or other activity in the ocean. Marine IAS typically come from a small group of marine

invertebrates typically introduced as fouling on ship's hulls or other objects in the ocean. Potentially,

some could come from ballast water, pumped out in harbors, but less is known about this possibility.

The major animal groups with invasives are the ascidians or tunicates (Phylum Chordata, Subphylum

Urochordata), hydroids and other cnidarians (Phylum Cnidaria), molluscs (Phylum Mollusca), sponges

(Phylum Porifera), bryozoans (Phylum Ectoprocta) and other small groups. Algae also have the

potential to become invasives, such as the introduction of Caulerpa taxifolia into areas of the

Mediterranean Sea, but there is better baseline information on algae of Palau than comparable

invertebrate groups.

There is relatively little baseline information for the groups of marine invertebrates that are typical IAS

in Palau. Knowledge of marine IAS is largely a result of the work of the Coral Reef Research

Foundation for the U.S. National Cancer Institute (NCI), one of the "spin-off" benefits resulting from

such activity. CRRF is tasked with providing marine invertebrate and marine plant (algae) samples to

the NCI for screening tests for anti-cancer compounds and has to identify each sample to species level.

The final identifications are done by specialist taxonomists all over the world.

Work in Palau commenced in 1993 and we have endeavored to find as many different species of

organisms as possible for the NCI, hence have generally tried to leave “no stone unturned.” One benefit

of this work is that we now have a good idea for many groups what are the common species in Palau,

plus have biological reference collections and data to support this information. Due to familiarity with

the fauna and flora of Palau, we are able to determine when something "different" is seen. Often that

"different" organism is an IS.

Usually, the species dealt with in Palau are identified by taxonomists at their home institutions. The

taxonomists do not come to Palau to do this work. However, in early 2000 Ms. Gretchen Lambert and

Dr. Charles Lambert came to Palau to examine ascidians growing in Malakal Harbor, and other

potential introduced ascidians. They had been working on a similar project with Dr. Gustav Pauley at

the University of Guam, so their presence in the western Pacific was an opportunity to bring them to

Palau. Gretchen Lambert is one of the few authorities on ascidian taxonomy, and had done similar work

identifying introduced ascidians in Hawai'i and Guam. She was able to identify nearly 40 species of

ascidians collected by CRRF from the buoys, with their mooring chains and anchor blocks, in Malakal

Harbor. It is believed as many as 16 of these are introductions, but generally they seem limited to the

harbor area on artificial substrates. Such ascidians are found in fouling communities in harbors

worldwide in the tropics and appear to pose no threat to Palau's marine life. This has provided important

baseline information on fouling ascidians in Palau. At the time they were visiting Palau, there was a

barge in the harbor which had come from the Philippines. We were able to collect specifimens and they

135

identified 9 species of ascidians from it, some of which were previously unknown from Palau. Overall,

they identified 68 species of ascidians from human-made surfaces in Palau. CRRF has voucher

specimens and photographs of all these species in our reference collection.

The status of Eudendrium carneum

At present only one marine IAS, a hydroid (Eudendrium carneum), has the potential for becoming a

"pest" organism. It is believed that the organism was introduced with the floating Palau Pontoon Bridge

which was brought to Palau in August 1997. CRRF did not examine the floating bridge until April

1998, at which time it was found to have a wide variety of invertebrates growing on it. E. carneum was

found growing both on the bridge structure and the rocky bottom around the Airai end of the bridge.

This hydroid was identified by Dr. Dale Calder of the Royal Ontario Museum, Toronto, Canada.

Subsequent work in the KB channel area has found E. carneum growing on rocky bottoms at least 3-4

km from the bridge site. It lives on rocky bottoms, where it forms a tangle of branches that tend to

accumulate sediment, making it a fairly unattractive "weed" species. These masses of hydroid tend to

make the rocky surfaces of the reef less visible, and tend to make the reef look “dirty.” Fortunately, it

does not seem to grow on or kill corals, and does not appear to colonize other living organisms. It does

not grow on sediment bottoms.

Another hydroid, Tyroscyphus furticosus, was also found growing on the Airai end of the bridge,

covering the mooring chains in a layer about 30-40 cm thick. This is probably also an introduced

species, but seems to have died back, or at least not expanded its range like E. carneum. For T.

furticosus, it appears to be a situation where the presence of a new, uncolonized substratum (the

mooring chains) caused it to "bloom," but it has replaced after a time by a more persistent species.

E. carneum has the potential to spread throughout the rocky bottoms of Palau. At this point there is no

conceivable way the species could be eliminated or controlled. It is now part of the local fauna until it

dies out by some natural cause. It would be very useful to survey the extent of its distribution at regular

intervals. Fortunately the hydroid does not seem to have a strong sting, but is, perhaps, mildly irritating.

It could potentially interfere with feeding of bottom grazers, such as parrotfishes and surgeonfishes,

which scrape algae from rock surfaces. If it started growing at the popular dive sites, it would

potentially make these sites less attractive.

Future considerations

There is always the potential for introductions of marine organisms from fouling communities. Most of

the vessels that come to Palau have their bottoms relatively clean, since a heavily fouled bottom makes

for poor fuel economy. However, there are cases, such as the barge mentioned above, where thickly

encrusted vessels have come to Palau. The barge in question had ascidians, hydroids, and sponges

covering every bit of its bottom. CRRF collected about 20 samples of 1 kg weight of each species from

this barge for testing. There were jellyfish polyps growing on the bottom, which could have resulted in

the introduction of a new species of jellyfish to Palau. We do not know what species the polyps

represented, but most likely it was a species that already occurs locally.

In the future, when vessels, barges, and other floating structures are brought into Palau, it will be

important to do a survey of the bottoms of such structures upon arrival to see what they might be

transporting. If there could be some law or regulation requiring vessels coming permanently to Palau to

be scrapped and anti-fouled at their home location prior to coming to Palau, that would be beneficial.

Also vessel that become grounded on the reefs of Palau, like the recent aggregate barge off

Ngeremlengui, should have a survey done as soon as possible after grounding, to see what species are

136

on the hull as fouling. Fortunately the Ngeremlengui barge had a very clean hull, but the potential is

there for such accidents to introduce undesirable species.

List of marine introduced species

Probable introductions Possible introductions

Hydroids

Eudendrium carneum

Tyroscyphus fructicosus

Ascidians

Didemnum perlucidum Ascidia aperta

Diplosoma listerianum Ascidia archai

Lissoclinum fragile Botryllus tyreus

Ecteinascidia diaphanis

Eusynstyela hartmeyeri

Hermania insolita

Hermania momus

Microcosmus helleri

Microcosmus pupa

Perophora multiclathrata

Phallusia philippinensis

Polyclinum nudum

Pyura curvigona

Pyura honu

Pyura vittata

137

INVASIVE ANIMAL SURVEY

The National Task Force on Invasive Animal Species is collecting information to determine the degree

to which invasive animals cause problems in Palau. The answers you provide in this survey will assist

in deciding the problem and determining the best solutions. Please fill out each question completely.

Use Question 3 if necessary to provide additional responses to answer questions. Thank you for your

help.

Definition

: Invasive animals are non-native species that have been introduced to Palau, and which tend to

increase their population and spread, and have a negative impact on biodiversity, farming, tourism

or the human population.

1. Where do you live? State Hamlet

2. Types of problem animals?

Is this type of animal

a problem in your

State?

If possible, estimate the cost of these

problems to you or your family

Type of animal

Yes No

What types of problems do these animals

cause? (e.g. damage to crops, damage to

natural resources, health, public nuisance etc)

Economic

($ per year)

Other - describe

(health, property

damage)

Pig

Macaque Monkey

Rat

Dog

Cat

Shrew

Cockatoo

Eclectus Parrot

Fruit Fly

Mosquito

Rhinoceros beetle

African Snail

Cane Toad

Annex 4

138

Other (list)

3. Solutions to problems?

For each type of animal you feel is a problem, please answer the

following

What, if anything, should be done about these animals? Type of animal

(list below)

Nothing New Laws Trapping Shooting Poison Rewards Other (please explain)

3. Additional Comments: Please provide additional comments or suggestions on controlling

invasive animals in Palau.

139

Annex 5

Project for the Eradication of Alien Rats

on Helen Island, Helen Reef, Hatohobei State,

Republic of Palau, Micronesia

1 June 2000

PROPOSED BY

The Hatohobei State Government,

Republic of Palau

The Community Conservation Network

Honolulu, Hawai'i

CONTACT

Crispin Emilio, Governor

Hatohobei State Government

P.O. Box 1017, Koror

Republic of Palau, PW 96940

Bus: (680) 488-2218

Bus Fax: (680) 488-5149

E-mail: [email protected]

Summary

The Helen Reef Atoll is a priority conservation site for marine and coastal biodiversity protection in

Pacific Ocean. The Community Conservation Network is working with the historical resource owning

community, the people of Hatohobei, to develop a management plan for enhancing the conservation of

the Helen Reef ecosystem and its resources. One of the activities identified by preliminary planning

efforts is the eradication of recently introduced rats to Helen Reef Island. Rats are viewed as one of the

primary threats to the continued existence to ground dwelling sea birds, as well as a serious impact on

the reproduction of threatened nesting sea turtle populations. This project proposes to implement a

complete eradication of rats on Helen Islands, as well as to incorporate preventative measures and

policies to reduce the likelihood of rat reintroduction on the island.

Helen Reef background

Helen Reef is a 162 km

coral reef atoll situated between the Palau archipelago in Micronesia and

insular Southeast Asia. This large remote coral reef atoll is unparalleled in all of Palau and Micronesia

in terms of its ecological integrity, abundance, and biological diversity, and provides habitat for – or

otherwise supports – many renowned and critical wildlife populations. Located just north of the equator

in the far Western Pacific, Helen Reef is remote from large human settlement, being over 600 km from

the main islands of Palau, with Eastern Indonesia 200 km to the south and the Southern Islands of the

Philippines more than 400 km to the west. As the largest geologic formation in the Southwest Islands of

Palau, Helen Reef, its lagoon and near-shore waters, and associated vegetated low coral islet support a

vast diversity of marine habitats and abundance of tropical coastal biota.

140

Problem context and opportunity

In 1996, two confiscated fishing vessels from the Philippines were anchored and abandoned at Helen

Island. Unwittingly, this event introduced rats to the island, which had been previously believed not to

harbor alien rat species (Maragos et al. 1994). This introduction was of concern to the community,

which quickly initiated a rat control program. These efforts to control rats failed, due to inappropriate

rodenticide choice and incomplete bait delivery. While this attempt to eradicate rats demonstrates the

community’s motivation to undertake conservation activities, it illustrates that technical assistance is

necessary to completely and effectively eradicate rats on Helen Island.

This project will plan for an effective rat eradication so that further damage by rats to sensitive sea bird

and sea turtle populations is avoided. Effective rat eradication approaches have been developed in

recent years with the improvement of delivery systems and rodenticide formulas, namely Brodifacoum

(Morrell et al. 1991). An opportunity to conduct rat eradication activities will occur during a resource

monitoring expedition to Helen Reef scheduled for July 2000. The community will participate in all

aspects of planning and implementation of this project, with expert advice, as a means of furthering

involvement and experiences with management efforts. This project will also include the planning of

preventative measures to lessen the chance of re-introduction once rats are eliminated (Moors et al.

1992).

Biodiversity features of concern

Many biologists and resource managers have verified the rat as a significant factor in the degradation of

island ecosystems, especially island avifaunas (Atkinson 1985). Helen Reef Island (3 ha) and

surrounding waters historically supports some of the largest known nesting sea bird colonies in

Micronesia (Enbring 1983), all of which are threatened, to a greater or lesser extent, by alien rats. These

colonies include brown footed boobies (Sula Leucogaster), red footed boobies (Sula sula), the great and

lesser frigatebirds (Fregata minor and Fregata ariel), great crested terns (Sterna bergii), black-naped

terns (Sterna sumatrana), sooty terns (Sterna Fuscata), black noddys (Anous stolidus), and white terns

(Gygis alba)( Keppler 1993). The rare coastal nesting population of the great crested tern at Helen is

thought to be one of the largest colony remaining in the entire Pacific Ocean (King et al. 1980, in

Keppler 1993). In addition, regionally important foraging and nesting populations of green (chelonia

mydas) and hawksbill (Eretmochelys imbricata) sea turtles may be impacted, as rats have been

witnessed attaching hatchling turtles (Morrell et al. 1991). The eradication of rats will reduce an

important threat to existing nesting sea birds (and sea turtles), and with further management and

protection create the conditions necessary for Helen Reef to regain important avifuna components

typical of undisturbed Pacific islands though successful re-colonization (Flint 1999).

Objectives

1. To enhance the survivorship of nesting sea birds and sea turtles on Helen Island by eradicating

rats recently introduced to and preventing their reintroduction.

2. To catalyze community involvement and participation in site management activities through

this important and measurable conservation action.

Activities

1. Design rat eradication plan with community based participation.

2. Community implement and monitoring rat eradication plan

3. Monitor effectiveness of eradication activities

4. Follow-up eradication treatments as needed

141

Rat eradication design and implantation

Complete eradication of the rat population on Helen Island is the desired outcome of this project. To

reach this goal of complete eradication, the island (area = 3 ha) will be gridded with bait stations at 3m

apart. Bait station will be composed of PVC piping material constructed in such a way that the bait is

available to targets that can fit through a hole the diameter of 6cm. The bait (0.002% Brodifacoum)

placed in bait stations will be made available to rats and stations monitored and replenished as

necessary for 4 to 5 days. Possible non-target effects (eg: small sand crabs, sea birds) will be monitored

for impact. Live traps will also be placed on the island during the final days of the first application of

the bait to monitor for rat survivorship. If necessary a second application of bait will be implemented to

attempt the complete eradication of any surviving rats. Special safety procedures and handling

precautions will be explained and demonstrated to project assistants. Palau EQPB and the Sanitation

Division will be contacted and notified of intended activities and invited to participate. All appropriate

procedures and practices will followed and adhered to by State and participating agency staff. To

minimize the potential for future reintroduction, a rat prevention and education program will be

developed for the State.

Deployment strategy:

Assuming 7 days at Helen Reef:

Day 1: Arrive Helen Reef; prepare deployment supplies; lay out 40 kg bait.

Day 2-6: Monitor uptake by crabs, rats.

Day 7: Lay out another 40 kg, depart Helen.

Helen Reef Rat Eradication Project -

July – December 2000

Item description

I. Personnel costs

Project Staff State Staff and Local Assistants (for eradication and follow up over one year) Expert

Technical Assistance Rat Eradication Expert.

II. Travel

Round trip travel from Koror, Palau to Helen Reef, JUNE 2000 Cost include travel for Implementation

Team.

III. Supplies

Rodenticide: Talon-G WeatherBlok Sufficient supply for the treatment of 3 ha (40 kg) and followup,

plus shipping from New Zealand Rodeniticide Bait stations Agricultural pipe Safety Equipment Gloves

for handling rats and rodenticide Rodent Live Traps For follow-up monitoring.

IV. Other

Community Planning Meeting Design and Coordinate Community Participation Community

Honorarium For participation in eradication and follow-up monitoring

Project Administration For administration costs Miscellaneous Hospitality costs, contingencies,

communications, etc.

142

References

Atkinson, I.A.E. 1985. The spread of commensal species of Rattus to oceanic islands and their effects

on island avifuanas. ICBP Technical Publication no. 3, 35-79.

Engbring, J. 1983. Avifauna of the Southwest Islands of Palau, Atoll Research Bulletin. No. 267:1-22.

Moors, P.J., I.A.E. Atkinson, and G.H. Sherley. 1992. Reducing the rat threat to island birds. Bird

Conservation International 2:93-114.

Flint, E. 1999. Status of sea bird populations and conservation in the tropical island pacific. Pages 189-

210 in Marine and Coastal Biodiversity in the Tropical Island Pacific Region. Vol II. East-West

Center and the Pacific Science Association, Honolulu HI.

Morrell, T.E., Ponwith, B., Craig, P., Ohashi, T., Murphy, J. and E. Flint. 1991. Eradication of

polynesian rats (Rattus exulans) from Rose Atoll Nation Wildlife Refuge, American Samoa.

DMWR Biological Report Series No. 20. 10 pp.

IUCN, 1991. IUCN directory of protected areas in Oceania. IUCN Publications Services. Gland,

Switzerland.

Keppler, A.K. 1993. Final report of terrestrial surveys: southwest Palau Islands expedition, June 1-19

1992. A report to the Nature Conservancy, Asia-Pacific Program for the Republic of Palau REA

project. 82 pp.

King, W.B., D Puleston, and T.L. Ritchie. 1980. Birds of Helen and Merir islands, Southwestern Palau.

Unpub. ms. 7 pp.

Maragos, J.E. 1993. Corals and reefs of the southwest islands of Palau. A report to the Nature

Conservancy, Asia-Pacific Program for the Republic of Palau REA project.

Maragos, J.E. and C.W. Cook, 1995. The 1991-2 Rapid ecological assessment of Palau’s coral reefs.

Coral Reefs 14:237-252.

Maragos, J.E., A.K. Kepler, R.L. Hunter-Anderson, T.J. Donaldson, S.H. Geermans, K.J. McDermid,

N. Idechong, S. Patris, C. Cook, B. Smith, R. Smith and K.Z. Meier. 1994. Rapid Ecological

Assessment of Palau: Part I. June 1992 natural and cultural resources survey of the Southwest

Islands of Palau. Prepared for the Bureau of Resources and Development, Republic of Palau,

Koror by The Nature Conservancy, Pacific Program, Honolulu. vii + 65 pp + 1 pl.

SAGRIC International. 1996. Palau National Master Development Plan, Revised Draft Final Report.

United Nations Development Program, U.S. Deptartment of the Interior. pp. 12-34.

143

Annex 6

PRESS RELEASE

25 October 2002

Quarantine Emergency: NEPC seeks public’s assistance to eradicate Tilapia

and City Pigeon recently found in Palau

The National Environmental Protection Council is asking for the public’s cooperation and assistance to

exterminate tilapia and city pigeon recently found in Palau. These species are highly invasive and may have

extreme negative impacts on our natural environment if they establish themselves in the wild.

Tilapia breed 3 or 4 times per year, live in both fresh and salt water, and are known for their ability to displace and

destroy many other fresh and salt water species. Although tilapia are successfully farmed in some areas, such as

Guam, where they have already escaped into the wild, they are a low value fish and are generally considered a

pest species that can interfere with aquaculture efforts for other species such as milkfish or bonefish. Aquaculture

of tilapia in areas where they are not already present in the wild can result in the loss of native biodiversity as they

have the ability to out-compete native species. Tilapia are very difficult to kill; they are resistant to chemicals

such as chorine, can withstand prolonged periods out of the water, and have been known to make their way

between ponds over land, much like catfish. Individuals seeking to kill Tilapia are encouraged to contact the

Division of Fish and Wildlife Enforcement for assistance at 488-2487. If Tilapia ponds or tanks are drained,

measures such as screening of drain water through a mosquito net must be taken to prevent escape of juveniles

and eggs, and the pond or tank should be kept dry for at least one week. All adult Tilapia should be captured and

killed before or during draining to prevent their escape over land.

“City pigeon” or “rock doves” are not native or endemic to Palau and are a potentially invasive pest species.

“City pigeon” live for up to 15 years, and pairs produce an average of 15 surviving young per year, so they spread

very rapidly if they enter the wild and may displace native species such as the Micronesian Pigeon. “City Pigeon”

also carry many diseases that could infect and impact wild and domestic birds and domestic animals, and they can

also carry diseases and mites that can infect and impact humans. “City pigeon” are often referred to as “rats with

feathers” or “flying rats,” and are the subject of pest control efforts in most places in the world. City pigeon are

particularly a nuisance and threat to human health because of their habit of nesting over air conditioners and

dropping feces into the air conditioner causing the spread of disease to humans.

Efforts are underway to locate and exterminate the invasive city pigeons and on Thursday, October 3, 2002, the

Bureau of Agriculture issued a Declaration of National Quarantine Emergency for Eradication of Tilapia.

Importation of any exotic species to Palau without a permit from the Minister of Resources and Development is

prohibited under the Endangered Species Act and is potentially subject to a penalty of up to a year in jail and a

fine of up to $10,000 per violation. Importation of live animals or plants without a permit is also prohibited under

the Plant and Animal Quarantine Regulations of the Bureau of Agriculture. Movement within Palau as well as

movement to Palau is considered importation under the quarantine regulations.

The public is urged to cooperate with efforts to eradicate tilapia and city pigeon. No criminal charges are being

filed against individuals who voluntarily contact the Division of Fish and Wildlife Protection to assist with efforts

to locate and eradicate city pigeon or tilapia.

Anyone with information about tilapia or pigeon in Palau should contact the Division of Fish and Wildlife

Protection at 488-2487. Anyone with information about other invasive species should contact Joe Tiobech, at the

Bureau of Agriculture 488-2504, the Division of Fish and Wildlife Protection may also be able to assist with other

species.

144

Annex 7

PALAU FRUIT FLY ERADICATION PROGRAM

IMPLEMENTATION PLAN

ERADICATION OF FRUIT FLIES

ATTRACTED TO METHYL EUGENOL

ORIENTAL FRUIT FLY (Bactrocera dorsalis)

AND

BREADFRUIT FLY (Bactrocera umbrosa)

(January 2001)

Prepared by:

Allan Allwood Ema Tora Vueti Fred Sengebau

Consultant Coordinator Entomologist

Allan Allwood Agriconsulting Fruit Fly Management Dept. of Agriculture

Brisbane SPC, Suva & Mineral Resources

Funded by Fruit Fly Management – Pest Management in the Pacific Project,

Secretariat of the Pacific Community, Suva, Fiji Islands.

145

Contents

Introduction

Information on fruit fly species in Palau

Eradication options and principles of techniques

Management activities

Development and submission of Implementation Plan

Appropriation of Funds

Technical Audit and Advisory Committee (TAAC)

Recruitment of full-time and part-time staff

Laboratory, office, and storage facilities

Procurement of supplies and equipment

Access to GIS, maps, and aerial photographs

Contracts for helicopter and consultants

Reporting on progress and delivery

Insurance for helicopter workers

Regulatory activities

Initiation of PFFEP

Fruit movement control and inter-island quarantine

Final clearance for PFFEP from EQPB

Increase in quarantine vigilance

Declaration of successful eradication

Public awareness activities

Recruitment of Public Awareness Officer

Official launch of PFFEP

Establishment of Public Awareness Working Group

Development of public awareness program

Notification of public and farmers of schedules of campaigns

Field and laboratory activities

Review and modification current trapping, host surveys, and data

Trapping and host survey programs for PFFEP

Package of fruit fly management practices

Confirmation of status of biological control agents

Documentation of safe practices for eradication

Documentation of monitoring systems for BactroMAT M-E and Bactrogel application

Supplies of BactroMAT M-E and Bactrogel

GPS capacity for helicopter and other activities

Mapping of ground/aerial application and environmentally sensitive areas

Adoption of fruit sanitation and destruction methods

Calibration of helicopter drops

Distribution of BactroMAT M-E

Identification of fruit fly population ‘hot spots’

Application of Bactrogel protein bait sprays

Measurement of effectiveness of PFFEP and reporting progress

Debriefing and reports after each campaign

Training activities

Contingencies

References

146

INTRODUCTION

Under the charter of the FAO/AusAID/UNDP/SPC Project on Regional Management of Fruit Flies in

the Pacific and following a request for assistance from the Government of the Republic of Palau, studies

on the technical feasibility and economic viability of the eradication of oriental fruit fly (Bactrocera

dorsalis) and breadfruit fly (B. umbrosa) were undertaken by Allwood et al. (1999) and McGregor

(2000). The reports from these studies showed clearly that it was technically feasible and economically

beneficial to eradicate oriental fruit fly. The eradication of breadfruit fly at the same time and at no

extra effort or cost would be a bonus. Not only would agriculture and the people of Palau benefit

considerably from the eradication program, but also the quarantine risk of oriental fruit fly’s spreading

to other Pacific Island countries and territories in the region would be greatly reduced.

Predictably, during the short time since these studies were completed, oriental fruit fly has expanded its

host range and is now causing very high levels of damage and losses to a wide range of fruits and

vegetables in Palau. Some fruits such as mountain apple (Syzygium malaccense) and carambola

(Averrhoa carambolae) are sustaining such high levels of damage (up to 100%) that people no longer

bother harvesting or eating them. Fruits fall to the ground, are not collected and destroyed, and, as

major breeding sites for oriental fruit fly, add to the already sizeable fruit fly population. Other

commodities such as guava and ‘Cavendish’ and ‘Maad’ type bananas are suffering losses of 80%, if

left on the tree to colour, a normal practice in Palauan culture. Bananas are now being harvested at

mature green stage to avoid damage. Guava and mango continue to be harvested green and eaten with

soy sauce to avoid damage by fruit flies. It is expected that vegetables such as tomatoes, eggplant,

capsicum and chillies will suffer damage by oriental fruit fly in the near future. The situation is likely

to worsen unless urgent action is taken.

The Committee of Transition, set up by the new Government in December 2000, identified several

initiatives, which will focus on agricultural development, diversification, and expansion. Three of the

initiatives are to develop separate strategic plans for implementing the recommendations of the National

Task Force on Agriculture Development, for diversifying and increasing the level of agricultural

production, and for supporting subsistence agriculture. Other initiatives recommended that the viability

of establishing a central Farmers’ Market in Koror be reviewed and determined and that technical

support for the development of agricultural products and markets be improved.

Essential to the prospects of achieving positive results from these initiatives is the eradication of

oriental fruit fly from Palau. The Transition Committee recognized that this was essential and included

in its Report an initiative to develop and implement a fruit fly eradication program. This initiative has

to be activated within the first 100days of the new Government’s term. The development of the

Implementation Plan for the eradication of oriental fruit fly was a recommendation of the feasibility

report by Allwood et al. (1999) and is now formalized as part of the activities under the Government’s

initiatives.

The Implementation Plan is sub-divided into broad activities, namely, Management, Regulatory, Public

Awareness, Field and Laboratory, Training, and Contingencies. A Schedule for the Implementation of

the Palau Fruit Fly Eradication Program is provided as Attachment A. It was considered necessary to

update the report by Allwood et al. (1999) and this was done in the attached Addendum (Attachment

B). The Implementation Plan should be read in conjunction with the reports by Allwood et al. (1999)

and McGregor (2000) and Attachments A and B.

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INFORMATION ON FRUIT FLIES IN PALAU

The report by Allwood et al. (1999) contains information on the distributions and economic importance

of fruit flies in Palau. In summary, there are two species of fruit flies, which are attracted to methyl

eugenol (oriental fruit fly and breadfruit fly) and one species attracted to cue-lure (mango fly (B.

frauenfeldi)). A fourth species, B. calophylli, is not attracted to either lure. It is not an economically

important species, occurring only in the wild fruit of Calophyllum inophyllum. The distribution of

oriental fruit fly in Palau is now well known, with the exception of information from Southwest Islands,

where trapping still has to be done. It occurs on all islands, including the Rock Islands, Kayangel and

Peleliu. The number of traps currently being serviced by DAMR has changed only marginally. Two

extra traps have been placed on two Rock Islands to give better coverage than that in 1999.

The major change in the fruit fly situation in Palau is, as stated earlier, the vastly increased losses that

are now occurring as a result of oriental fruit fly numbers increasing and the host range expanding.

This is typical of species, like many of the ‘dorsalis’ complex fruit flies, which have been recently

introduced into new areas.

ERADICATION OPTIONS AND PRINCIPLES OF THE TECHNIQUES

The options for eradication in Palau include the Male Annihilation Technique, commonly referred to as

MAT, and protein bait spray technique, sometimes referred to as BAT. Other methods of fruit fly

management or control will be used to supplement these techniques. For example, sound crop

sanitation by destroying fallen or damaged, unwanted fruits and the release of parasitoids such as

Fopius arisanus and Diacasmimorpha longicaudata, will be encouraged as an integrated approach to

reducing fruit fly populations.

Male Annihilation Technique (MAT)

The most appropriate technique of eradication of species of fruit flies attracted to methyl eugenol is

MAT. Methyl eugenol is a very powerful attractant for male fruit flies. The technique consists of

combining the attractant with an insecticide, impregnating bait stations made of paper mâché with the

mixture, and distributing them over large areas either by ground teams or from a helicopter. The

principle of the technique is that the male flies are attracted to the bait stations and, providing they are

distributed at 400-600 per km², the male population will be reduced to the point where no mating

occurs. The population eventually will crash and the species attracted to methyl eugenol will be

eradicated.

It has been successfully used for eradication of oriental fruit fly in Okinawa (Japan) and Rota Island

(Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands). MAT, using the toxicant malathion, was one of the

techniques used for the eradication of Asian papaya fruit fly (B. papayae) and Philippine fruit fly (B.

philippinensis) in northern Queensland and Northern Territory of Australia, respectively. MAT was

successfully used for eradication of oriental fruit fly and Pacific fruit fly (B. xanthodes) in Nauru and

for the eradication program for oriental fruit fly in French Polynesia currently being run. In Nauru, for

the first time, the insecticide Fipronil was incorporated with methyl eugenol, replacing malathion as the

toxicant. Melon fly (B. cucurbitae) was also eradicated from Nauru, but by using fibreboard blocks

impregnated with cue-lure and Fipronil.

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Protein Bait Spray Technique

All female fruit flies require a feed of protein before they are able to lay viable eggs. This requirement

by female flies is used in rearing fruit flies in the laboratory and is also used to control fruit flies in fruit

and vegetable crops or in eradication programs. Small amounts of a bait made of protein autolysate or

hydrolysate plus an insecticide are applied to the leaf surface. The female fruit flies are attracted to the

protein and are killed by the insecticide as they feed. The bait attracts particularly the sexually

immature females, but will attract sexually mature females and also male flies.

In the eradication program in Palau, protein bait spraying will be used in situations where populations

of oriental fruit fly and breadfruit fly persist and are difficult to bring under control with the blocking

program. These areas are referred to as ‘hot spots’. Protein bait will applied using ground teams with

small hand held single-action sprayers (‘Rega’ sprayers), so that the application is controlled. Aerial

application of protein bait sprays will not be used.

The preferred source of protein is from Mauri Yeast Australia. It is called Mauri Pinnacle Protein

Insect Lure (MPPIL) - Low Salt (420g of protein per litre). The recommended rate of use in Australia

is 30-60 ml of the MPPIL, made up to one litre with water. For Palau, the rate of use will be 30 ml of

MPPIL made up to one litre with water.

The insecticide is available as Fipronil powder gel containing 1% Fipronil weight by weight. The

powder gel is sprinkled slowly on the surface of a protein/water solution and stirred vigorously. It is

mixed with the protein/water solution at the rate of 5g Fipronil powder gel per litre, resulting in a

0.005% solution. The resultant liquid bait is as the name suggests a gel. The thickened mixture sticks

to the underside of the leaves of fruit trees and is tolerant to being washed off the leaves by rain, a

distinct advantage under weather conditions in Palau. The deposits on the leaves will re-hydrate after it

has dried, making it attractive for a relatively long period. The protein bait mixture may be applied to

the underside of leaves in spots of 10-15ml at the rate of 25 spots per hectare or 10 spots per acre. In an

eradication programme, this mixture is applied to leaves of fruit trees in hot spot areas on a weekly

schedule for about 4-6 weeks or until the population is managed.

MANAGEMENT ACTIVITIES

Development and Submission of Implementation Plan

The development of the Implementation Plan has taken place in consultation with staff of Department

of Agriculture and Mineral Resources (DAMR) and the Environment Quality and Protection Board

(EQPB). The prospective activities, budget, and timeframes were presented for discussion to a seminar

attended by 29 representatives of the Government, institutions, and interested groups in Palau Pacific

Resort on 31 January. A representative from Aventis CropScience Pty Ltd presented, for discussion,

information on the new technologies, namely BactroMAT M-E and Bactrogel. The Implementation

Plan has taken into account the initiatives of the Government of the Republic of Palau identified in the

Report of the Transition Committee. Attached to the Implementation Plan is an Addendum to the

Feasibility Study on the Eradication of Fruit Flies Attracted to Methyl Eugenol (Bactrocera dorsalis

and Bactrocera umbrosa in Palau, 10-23 August 1999 by Allwood et al. The Addendum updates the

study report.

The report by Allwood et al. (1999) and the subsequent Addendum enunciated the Management

Structure that is needed to run the PFFEP. The Management Structure has not changed, but is a

minimum requirement. However, it is important to stress that, unless the full-time staff recruited to

perform the respective functions are dedicated solely to the activities of the PFFEP for two years, there

149

will be inefficiencies that are likely to adversely affect the achievement of objectives of the PFFEP.

Also, it is imperative that the staff used in the PFFEP are high achievers, are fully committed to the

activities, and are able to become an integral part of a very proactive team.

Appropriation of Funds

The commencement of the Palau Fruit Fly Eradication Program (PFFEP) is dependent on the

availability of funds from the Government. The Implementation Plan has been developed assuming that

funds would be made available almost immediately after the Implementation Plan is submitted and

accepted. On this basis, the activities are due to commence in March 2001. If funds are not made

available almost immediately, then activities will need to be re-scheduled accordingly.

It is important that the commitment of funds be for a minimum of two years rather than on an annual

basis, so that activities later in 2001 or in 2002 are not curtailed in any way due to deficiencies or

lateness in funding. It is imperative that, subject to satisfactory delivery and progress, funds are not

reduced before the proposed PFFEP is completed. Before any reduction in funding is contemplated, the

progress of the PFFEP needs to be technically assessed to determine if final eradication is feasible or

not within the timeframe and budget.

Because the PFFEP is dealing with a complex biological system, it is important to maintain a high

degree of flexibility and the capacity to respond quickly to particular situations that may arise during

the running of the program.

Technical Audit and Advisory Committee

To assist in maintaining quality of the technical delivery of the PFFEP, a Technical Audit and Advisory

Committee (TAAC) should be formed at the start of the program. The TAAC should comprise the

members of the ex-Sub-Committee on Fruit Fly Eradication plus the Fruit Fly Coordinator of the Fruit

Fly Management Project in SPC, and an external consultant with considerable expertise in project

management, fruit fly management and eradication programs. The TAAC should liaise closely with the

EQPB and the Office of Environmental Response and Coordination (OERC).

The TAAC should be responsible for monitoring the progress of the PFFEP, for facilitating the

technical inputs and management of the program, for keeping the Government informed of the

achievements and needs of the program, and providing technical backstopping for the PFFEP Manager

and the Government. The TAAC should meet as necessary, but at least quarterly.

Recruitment of Full-Time and Part-Time Staff

The Schedule for Implementation of the PFFEP and the budget identifies the full-time and minimum

number of part-time staff needed to run the program. It is imperative to recognize that staff currently

occupying a position within the Government cannot undertake the duties of their current position and

perform the duties of a position with the PFFEP concurrently. Staff working on activities of the PFFEP

need to be dedicated to these activities and these activities alone. This is particularly so for the

positions of PFFEP Manager, Plant Protection Officer, Coordinator Field Operations, and Public

Awareness Officer.

The position of the PFFEP Manager is critical to the success of the whole program. This position needs

to be filled urgently once the funding has been secured. The appointee needs qualifications and

experience in entomology and running fruit fly eradication programs and wide experience in people and

project management. It may be an advantage to appoint someone from outside of Palau, but the

150

appointee must be sensitive to the ways of Pacific Islanders. It should be the PFFEP Manager’s role to

arrange the recruitment of the other positions, focussing on the need to create very effective teamwork.

Laboratory, Office, and Storage Facilities

The existing laboratories are adequate, except that there is insufficient space for processing and holding

the very large number and volume of fruit samples, which will be necessary in a program such as

thIslands It must be remembered that fruit sampling becomes the major method of assessing the

effectiveness of the MAT and BAT. Once MAT has been implemented, the usefulness of the trapping

system to monitor methyl eugenol attracted fruit flies becomes less, because of the direct competition

between the traps and the bait stations.

The storage space in the existing laboratory is inadequate. Extra storage will need to be provided for

BactroMAT M-E bait stations, MPPIL, Bactrogel, and containers for fruit rearing. Securing two

shipping containers and setting these up near the existing laboratory/office would overcome this

shortage. One could be used for storage and one, with internal shelving, could be used for holding fruit

samples. Both need to be weatherproofed with a simple roof and silicon sealing of vertical walls if

necessary. Both must be air-conditioned.

The office space is not adequate for all of the PFFEP staff, who require office space. More effective

use of other areas adjacent to the existing Fruit Fly Laboratory is necessary.

Procurement of Supplies and Equipment

The essential issue relating to procurement is to ensure that orders are placed early and that

arrangements for early payment are made. For example, the supply of BactroMAT M-E is essential to

the program and must be ordered well in advance to ensure that the 192,000 bait stations needed for

each campaign are in Palau in good time. It would be sensible to purchase enough for two or three

campaigns to ensure that there is no shortage and that freight rates are the best available. Aventis

CropScience Pty Ltd has indicated that BactroMAT M-E can be supplied in lots sufficient for six

months, providing adequate air-conditioned storage space is available. Providing storage is air-

conditioned, no problem with effectiveness of the bait stations should occur. As far as possible,

supplies should be brought in by ship, rather than by air to save on the cost of freight.

Access to GIS, Maps and Aerial Photographs

Access to a Geographic Information System (GIS) will make reporting on trapping, fruit surveys, bait

station application, and protein bait spray application easier and clearer. The Department of Lands and

Survey has the capacity and has indicated willingness to assist the PFFEP in using this technology and

setting up a model that could be used for eradication programs in other PICTs. This needs to be in

place very early in the program.

Contracts for Helicopter and Consultants

At this stage, a quotation to provide a H500 helicopter from Americopter of Guam has been received.

The details are with DAMR. It is necessary to arrange a contract for the PFFEP work well in advance

of the proposed start date in July 2001, so that arrangements can be made to ship the helicopter to Palau

for a period of 12 months and perform the necessary modifications and calibrations. Should the US

Military become involved in the provision of the helicopter services, then a formal arrangement or

memorandum of understanding may be required.

151

It is important to understand that, by using a private company, there is a greater chance of having the

same helicopter crew throughout the program. This represents a tremendous advantage in getting the

job done as efficiently and effectively as possible. Using the same crew will result in time- savings as

each campaign is done and there will not be the need to provide training for a new pilot before each

campaign.

The helicopter and crew must have the capacity to fly accurate 100 metre transects at about 30 metres

above the tree canopy and to fly at around 50-70 kph. To ensure that this is possible, the helicopter

must be equipped with a continuous display Geographic Positioning System (GPS) that is normally

used for ground tracking for crop spraying. In this type of program, precision is imperative for a

number of reasons. The distribution of bait stations needs to be thorough and precise. Areas that are

missed may become small pockets for breeding fruit flies, which reinfest treated areas. The observer in

the helicopter must carefully record treated areas on maps sub-divided into clearly defined sectors.

Also, precision will ensure that sensitive areas are avoided during helicopter drops.

Assuming that a consultant is to be used for the TAAC, a contract for his/her inputs is necessary. SPC

may be able to assist with a identifying an appropriate consultant, if necessary.

Reporting on Progress and Delivery

Regular reporting on the progress of the PFFEP and the delivery of services needs to be made to

Government. The PFFEP Manager should report on a regular basis (probably quarterly) on the

technical and management issues related to the program. The format for the report needs to be

negotiated between the PFFEP Manager and DAMR, but it needs to simple and not time consuming.

Insurance for Helicopter Workers

Special insurance for the Government workers involved in the helicopter dropping of BactroMAT M-E

bait stations may be necessary. DAMR needs to investigate the best options for this insurance

coverage. The coverage of government insurance may be adequate.

REGULATORY ACTIVITIES

Initiation of PFFEP

The PFFEP will commence as soon as funding is available. It is necessary to provide a legislative basis

for the program. This could be done by either declaring the PFFEP a National Emergency under

Sections 2.27 and 2.28 of the Plant and Animal Quarantine Regulations or by Executive Order of the

President or Presidential Directive. Whichever method is chosen, DAMR needs to put in place the

necessary action and documentation as soon as possible.

Fruit Movement Controls and Inter-Island Quarantine

Preparation needs to be made to impose movement controls on fresh fruits and vegetables both from

overseas to prevent the incursion of new species of fruit flies and, when appropriate, between islands, as

they become free of oriental fruit fly and breadfruit fly. Quarantine in DAMR needs to consider and

develop the mechanisms involved well in advance so that the timing of the imposition of movement

restrictions is precise and not delayed because of uncertainty. Discussion on this issue with the SPC

Plant Protection (Micronesia) Project may be beneficial.

152

Final Clearance for the PFFEP from EQPB

Because the PFFEP will use the insecticide Fipronil in both BactroMAT M-E and Bactrogel, EQPB

requested that the Implementation Plan be submitted so that the use of Fipronil can be approved. The

Implementation Plan must be submitted urgently to EQPB.

As a flow-on from this action, DAMR should document the technical information of the use of

BactroMAT M-E and C-L and Bactrogel, with the view of applying for formal registration and approval

for use of all three formulations for fruit fly management in general. A combination of BactroMAT C-

L and Bactrogel will reduce the losses caused by mango fly, a fly attracted to cue-lure and the fly that

will remain after the PFFEP is successful.

The use of other formulations of Fipronil, e.g. for use for termite control, ant control, and cockroach

control may be appropriate at the same time.

Increased Quarantine Vigilance

The Budget contained in the Addendum includes salary provision for two additional Quarantine

Officers, with the aim of increasing quarantine inspections for fresh fruits and vegetable, being brought

into Palau with or without permits. The objective is to reduce the risk of new introductions of exotic

fruit fly species, which would jeopardize the expected achievements of the PFFEP. These officers

would also assist with the imposition and policing of inter-island quarantine, when it is required, and

permanent quarantine surveillance to identify new incursions of exotic fruit flies.

Quarantine signage and quarantine bins at the Palau International Airport make the traveller aware of

the dangers of carrying fruits and vegetables without permits and the importance of fruit flies as a pest

and requests travellers to dispose of fruits in the bins or declare them to Quarantine. Maintaining at

least this level of quarantine awareness is imperative. There may be some Rock Islands visited by

tourists and Palauans, which are not infested with oriental fruit fly and it is important to keep these

islands free. As the PFFEP takes effect, oriental fruit fly and breadfruit fly will be progressively

eradicated from the Rock Islands and other islands. Quarantine signs warning of the dangers of taking

fruits and vegetables from infested areas into areas that have undergone eradication and warning of the

penalties of moving these commodities into uninfested areas must be developed by Quarantine, in

liaison with the PFFEP Manager and the PPM.

One way of improving this quarantine vigilance is to enlist the help of school children by running

awareness programs in schools. Children may remind parents of the importance of quarantine, fruit

flies and moving fruits and vegetables. This awareness needs not be restricted to the importance of fruit

flies, but should cover other quarantinable pests and diseases.

Declaration of Successful Eradication

Criteria for the declaring Palau free from oriental fruit fly and breadfruit fly need to be developed early

in the life of the PFFEP. A minimum requirement would that Palau or areas of Palau are free from one

or both of these species, indicated by intensive trapping and fruit sampling, for at least two generations

of the fly species. This would amount to a freedom period of about 2-3 months. However, under the

conditions that exist in Palau, it may be appropriate to be a little more conservative and suggest a period

of freedom of at least six months before a declaration of eradication should be made.

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It is important to recognize that the density of traps may need to be increased as the numbers and

distribution of flies decrease as the MAT and BAT programs take effect. Also, the reliance on methyl

eugenol trapping as a sole indicator of fruit fly numbers will be reduced due to the competition between

the traps and the bait stations. More reliance has to be placed on fruit sampling.

PUBLIC AWARENESS ACTIVITIES

Recruitment of Public Awareness Officer

Recruitment of the Public Awareness Officer needs to be done as soon as the PFFEP Manager is in

place. The public awareness activities must be commenced in March and continue for the duration of

the PFFEP. This person is the first point of contact for enquiries from the public and must be dedicated

completely to the task rather than being shared with another government department.

Official Launch of PFFEP

The official launch of the PFFEP should take place in March 2001 and be used as a promotion and

public awareness exercise to get the message of how serious the problem of losses caused by fruit flies

is and what is involved in the proposed PFFEP. Television and other media coverage is necessary.

Establishment of Public Awareness Working Group

Public awareness is extremely important in a campaign as complex as thIslands To be effective, it must

involve the whole community. Setting up a Public Awareness working Group, which has

representation from community groups, NGOs, and appropriate government departments, will assist the

Public Awareness Officer in getting a coordinated message out to the public. Representation may come

from DAMR, EQPB, Health, Education, National Informal Education and Sustainable Livelihoods

Project, OERC, Bureau of Women’s International, Palau Conservation Society, and the Palau

Community College. The working group should be established as soon as the Public Awareness

Officer is appointed in March 2001 and should met as necessary.

Development of Public Awareness Program

All forms of media and as many avenues as possible should be used for public awareness. Programs

that involve radio, television, and newspapers need to be developed urgently. A short video on fruit

flies, the damage they cause to fruits, and the eradication techniques to be used in Palau, should be

produced for regular airing on local television and distribution to schools and other education

institutions.

A monthly newsletter can be produced very cheaply and distributed through schools, government

offices, supermarkets, and shops. The purpose of the newsletter is to keep everyone informed of the

achievements of the PFFEP, the proposed activities such as the bait station distribution program and the

protein bait spray program, the assistance that the public can provide, and any inter-island quarantines

that are imposed as a result of successful eradication in some areas.

Workers involved in the PFFEP should be supplied with readily identifiable caps and T-shirts. Aventis

CropScience Pty Ltd of Australia has indicated that it may be prepared to donate caps and T-shirts with

an appropriate design depicting the PFFEP and for advertising the importance of the program. The

Public Awareness Officer needs to liaise with Mr Richard Bull of Aventis CropScience Pty Ltd,

Brisbane.

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The Public Awareness Officer must liaise closely with community and women’s groups and NGOs. It

is expected that, if the public awareness working group or committee works effectively, then this

contact will occur regularly.

Notification of Public and Farmers of Schedule of Campaigns

It is the responsibility of the Public Awareness Officer to notify the public and farmers of the schedule

for the aerial and ground distribution of BactroMAT M-E bait stations and the ground application of

protein bait spray in urban and village areas. This must be done one week before the campaign begins.

Reminder notices to householders to tie up their dogs need to be put over the local radio station on a

daily basis during the distribution of BactroMAT M-E bait stations and the application of Bactrogel

protein bait sprays.

FIELD AND LABORATORY ACTIVITIES

Review and Modify Current Trapping and Host Surveys and Data

Currently, DAMR is servicing monthly 112 permanent trap sites on Rock Islands (30 traps), Peleliu (6),

Angaur (6), Babeldaob (51), Koror (13), and Kayangel (6). The raw data accumulated from these traps

need to be placed on one file and the data entered into an EXCEL spreadsheet that has been set up by

the SPC Fruit Fly Management-Pest Management in the Pacific Project (FFM) in January 2001. These

data will provide valuable baseline information on seasonal trends in fruit fly populations. Combined

with data from host surveys, the trapping data give an indication of the areas where high populations of

oriental fruit fly and breadfruit fly occur and where the eradication program may have to focus its

activities.

It is recommended that the trap sites on Koror and Babeldaob be rationalized. For example, on

Babeldaob, the number of trap sites may be reduced from 51 to 20, but still maintain a reasonable

geographic distribution of the whole island. This will reduce the time spent on sorting flies. It is

recommended also that the traps be cleared every two weeks instead of monthly as is done now. The

number of traps on Koror could be reduced to ten and cleared every two weeks.

Although there are difficulties in regular transport, trapping on the Southwest Islands is essential to

determine if oriental fruit fly and breadfruit fly are present or not. Also, it is important to determine if

there are other exotic fruit flies on these islands, which are close to Indonesia and Papua New Guinea.

Both countries have Asian papaya fruit fly and a number of other economically important fruit fly

species. This survey should be done in February or March 2001. Arrangements should be made for

people living on the islands to regularly service traps that are permanently located there.

As the numbers of flies decrease as a result of the PFFEP, it is likely that the numbers of traps will have

to increased and they will have to be cleared weekly on Koror and Babeldaob and every two weeks

elsewhere. This is necessary to provide guidance to the PFFEP Manager and the eradication teams.

The level of host surveys currently being carried out is inadequate. Compiling from fruit surveys a

comprehensive list of edible/commercial fruits and wild/forest fruits, which are hosts to oriental fruit fly

and breadfruit fly, provides essential information that will be used during the PFFEP. It is important to

remember that once BactroMAT M-E bait stations are distributed, the traps using methyl eugenol are

less effective due to the competition between the traps and the bait stations. Greater reliance on the

results of host surveys will be necessary.

155

It is recommended that the common host fruits such as guava, carambola, mountain apple, and

Terminalia catappa be collected and the fruits held in individual containers to determine the percentage

of the fruits that are infested. This baseline information will be valuable in assessing the effectiveness

of the PFFEP once BactroMAT M-E bait stations are applied.

Trapping and Host Survey Program During PFFEP

Results from trapping and host surveys form the basis of the weekly reports from the Plant Protection

Officer to the PFFEP Manager and the decisions on the activities of the PFFEP by the PFFEP Manager.

The weekly reports will identify the locations of ‘hot spots’, i.e., areas where persistent breeding

populations of fruit flies occur or where extra BactroMAT M-E bait stations need to be distributed or

Bactrogel protein bait sprays need to be applied. To do this effectively, records need to be kept up-to-

date and computerized so that graphical reports for each trap site may be produced as necessary.

Comments on the number of traps and the frequency of clearing the traps are provided in the previous

section.

Package of Fruit Fly Management Practices

While the PFFEP is taking effect, field control of fruit flies should be implemented to reduce the very

high levels of loss currently occurring. The PFFEP Manager should develop, in liaison with the

Coordinator of the SPC FFM, a package of fruit fly control practices, which may be implemented by

backyard or commercial growers. The package should include physical control (bagging of fruits),

cultural control (harvesting fruits early and crop sanitation by destroying fallen fruits), biological

control (use of parasitoids), and behavioural control (BactroMAT M-E and C-L bait stations and

Bactrogel protein bait sprays).

The package should also address the issue of increased quarantine vigilance for inter-island movements

of fruits and vegetables and the likely illegal movements of fruits by international passengers entering

Palau and nationals returning to Palau.

Confirmation of the Status of Biological Control Agents

Although parasitoids are unlikely to control fruit flies on their own, they should be included into any

integrated approach to controlling or eradicating fruit flies. It is believed that Fopius arisanus was

introduced into Palau in about 1969, based on two specimens in the Belau National Museum.

Parasitoids, which were Fopius like, have been recently recovered from carambola fruit samples. Its

presence needs to be confirmed before any further efforts are made to re-introduce or introduce the

parasitoids from Hawai'i for laboratory multiplication and release.

Documentation of Safe Practices

In consultation with Palau EQPB, OERC, and possibly Health, documentation of safe practices for the

use of BactroMAT M-E bait stations and Bactrogel protein bait sprays should be completed well before

the PFFEP field operations commence. All staff of the PFFEP must be trained in these practices.

Documentation of Monitoring Systems for BactroMAT M-E and Bactrogel Application

In consultation with Aventis CropScience Pty Ltd and SPC FFM, a system of monitoring the

application of BactroMAT M-E and Bactrogel needs to be developed. Ground teams and the helicopter

team must record, on detailed maps, the areas that have been treated. This must be done on a daily

basis, with the maps being returned to the PFFEP Manager so that the next day’s treatment can be

156

planned. The information on each map must include date, number of people in team (for ground teams

only), number of bait stations distributed/litres of protein bait spray applied, estimate of area covered,

actual area covered marked on the map provided, any problems such as difficulty in gaining access to

areas or compounds, and areas where there are particularly large concentrations of fruit trees or fallen

fruits.

The information identified above, together with trapping and host fruit data, should be incorporated into

the GIS system under Lands and Survey. The framework for this needs to developed prior to the

application of MAT or protein bait sprays. Using GIS will provide the capacity for regular and detailed

reporting needed to make decisions on the PFFEP.

Supplies of BactroMAT M-E and Bactrogel

Early ordering and supply of BactroMAT M-E and Bactrogel is essential to the effective operation of

the PFFEP. Early ordering will also ensure that supplies can be sent from Australia by sea-freight, thus

saving the very large costs of air-freight. To guarantee timely supply, orders must be placed at least

four months prior to the time the materials are needed, i.e., ordered in early March to guarantee supply

for the July campaign. Ordering sufficient materials for six months operation will ensure the materials

are available and the freight costs are kept to a minimum.

GPS Capacity for Helicopter and Other Activities

The helicopter must be equipped with a GPS system that has the capacity to fly very accurately

transects 100 metres apart for long distances, with ground tracking with continuous digital display,

similar to the technology used by aerial operators for crop pest control.

The PFFEP should purchase two GPS units that may be used for locating traps and host trees with

latitude and longitude readings so that these data can be included into the GIS system.

Mapping of Ground/Aerial Application Areas and Environmentally Sensitive Areas

Prior to the ground and aerial application activities, areas that will be treated with BactroMAT

M-E and Bactrogel must be identified on reference maps. At the same time, sensitive areas, such as the

major watersheds used for supply of drinking water should be identified on reference maps (e.g. a

stand-off area of 50 metres on either side of the Ngerimel and Ngrikil Rivers and the dam areas)

It is highly unlikely that mangrove areas will have host plants for oriental fruit fly or breadfruit fly, so

there is no need to treat these areas by helicopter or from the ground. However, it will be necessary to

treat the vegetation adjacent to the mangroves. To facilitate the identification of mangrove areas,

mangrove areas should be clearly identified on the reference maps. As well as reducing the time and

costs of aerial application of BactroMAT M-E, it will ensure that the bait stations are not dropped into

this sensitive marine environment.

PFFEP and Lands and Survey should be responsible for the exercise of identifying these areas by the

end of May 2001. Close liaison and collaboration with EQPB, OERC, and the Palau Conservation

Society must be maintained at all times.

A map dividing Palau into treatment sectors should be produced so that the helicopter team and the

ground teams have achievable daily targets. Lands and Survey may be able to assist with this exercise

and may be able to produce the maps with sufficient details.

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Adoption of Fruit Sanitation and Destruction Methods

All communities should adopt immediately sound crop sanitation by daily collection and destruction of

unwanted fallen, damaged, or over-ripe fruits. Putting the collected fruits into garbags or plastic bags

without any holes, securely sealing the bags, and placing them in the sun will kill the maggots or larvae.

Heating fruits in this way to about 48-50°C will kill the maggots. If this practice is done over large

areas, the impact on fruit fly populations may be significant and will certainly assist the overall PFFEP.

To convince everyone to cooperate, a proactive public awareness campaign, identifying the benefits of

this practice, is necessary and needs to start as soon as possible.

Calibration of Helicopter Drops

The calibration of the dropping of BactroMAT M-E by the helicopter team must be done in June as

soon as the helicopter is operational. This should involve identifying the combination of ground speed,

height above the canopy, and the time interval between drops of the BactroMAT M-E bait stations to

achieve a interval between bait stations of 25 metres. Ground speeds of 50 and 60 kph should be tested.

The time interval between the drops of BactroMAT M-E should be about two seconds. The height

above the canopy should be 30 metres. The pattern of BactroMAT M-E on the ground should be about

350-400 bait stations per km² for the combination of 50 kph, two-second drop interval and 30 metres

above the canopy. At 60kph, the number of bait stations per km² would be reduced to about 300, which

is probably too few.

Distribution of BactroMAT M-E

The method of distribution of BactroMAT M-E bait stations to be used in Palau will include:

. Paper mâché bait stations soaked in mixture of methyl eugenol and Fipronil will be distributed

every 8 weeks for up to eight campaigns at a bait station density of 350-400 per km² by helicopter over

Palau, with the exception of urban areas on Koror and Babeldaob, small villages elsewhere, and in the

specified watersheds. In urban areas of Koror and Babeldaob and in small villages, the bait stations will

be distributed, at a density of 400-500 per km², by ground teams. The higher numbers of bait stations to

be used in urban and village areas are advisable because the incidence of fruit flies is higher in these

areas, compared to that in rainforest or native vegetation areas. Teams in Koror will comprise six

teams of four people for two days and for other areas four teams of four people for two days will be

used. This distribution pattern equates to a bait station every 40-50 metres.

. Special attention will be paid to application of bait stations to watersheds. These areas will be

identified on maps. Bait stations will not be dropped closer than 50 metres to the edges of specified

watersheds. Where necessary, ground applications will have to be done.

. Helicopter drops will be done on the basis of runs at 100 metre intervals, probably in east-west and

west-east directions. The height and air-speed will be decided after calibration by carrying out passes at

different combinations of height and air-speed at the local airport. However, it is expected that the bait

stations will be dropped from about 30 metres above the canopy, at a speed of about 50 kph, and a drop

interval of about two seconds. This combination should give accurate control of where the bait stations

are positioned.

. The insecticide of choice for the eradication program in Palau is Fipronil. It is registered in

Australia for numerous uses, including control of banana weevil borer, rice seedling pests in an aquatic

environment, plague locusts, and turf pests, and for integrated pest management of pests of crucifers,

brassicas, and cotton. The formulation of Fipronil used to impregnate the fibreboard blocks in virtually

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insoluble in water and, consequently, poses little risk environmentally. It is also used in very small

quantities - 5mg per bait station. The Palau EQPB will approve the usage of Fipronil upon acceptance

of this Implementation Plan.

The bait stations will be prepared under contract by Aventis CropScience Pty Ltd based in Brisbane,

Australia. They will be supplied already treated with plant ties for attaching to trees. This means that

there will be no need to store or mix either methyl eugenol or Fipronil on Palau. This approach ensures

that there will be no spillages or other environmental problems.

Identification of Fruit Fly Population ‘Hot Spots’

Records of oriental fruit fly and breadfruit fly from traps and regular fruit surveys will assist in

identifying ‘hot spots’ of persistently high fruit fly populations. The Plant Protection Officer has the

responsibility of collating data and reporting on the incidence and location of ‘hot spots’. Though

identification of these areas may be possible after the first BactroMAT M-E application, realistically

these areas may not be clearly identifiable until after the second bait station application.

When ‘hot spots’ are identified, it is necessary to confirm this by intensified trapping over an area of

about 200 metres radius and sampling of host fruits to determine if there is a breeding population in the

area. If this is the case, then application of Bactrogel commences and probably additional distribution

of BactroMAT M-E bait stations.

Application of Bactrogel Protein Bait Sprays

The method of application of Bactrogel protein bait sprays is covered in the section of this plan on the

Eradication Options and the Principles of the Techniques – Protein Bait Spray Technique.

The great advantage of using Bactrogel is that the protein attracts female flies before they are sexually

mature and ready to lay eggs, sexually mature female flies, and male flies. Applied correctly in ‘hot

spots’, it will reduce fly numbers markedly.

Organizationally, it is important that each team nominates a team supervisor, who has the responsibility

of monitoring the effectiveness of the application, ensuring that the bait is applied to the undersides of

leaves at the recommended rate, and not wasted on fence posts or elsewhere. Also, the team supervisor

must keep detailed records of the areas covered and the amount of bait spray applied. At the end of

each day, the supervisor must provide a map showing the area treated, the amount of bait used, and any

problems that arose, particularly if householders would not permit entry to carry out the treatment of a

backyard or compound. The application must be done inside of compounds as well as along streets.

Most of the fruit trees are inside housing blocks or compounds, rather than on the street.

Monitoring the Effectiveness of PFFEP and Reporting Progress

The Plant Protection Officer must collate the data from fruit fly trapping and host surveys and report on

these on a weekly basis to the PFFEP Manager. These assessments and reports form the basis of the

decisions by the PFFEP Manager with respect to the following week’s program of activities. The

reports should contain:

Graphs of the numbers of flies per week for each trap site;

Graphs of the percentage of traps that have produced oriental fruit fly and breadfruit fly for Koror,

Babeldaob, Rock Islands, Peleliu, Angaur, and Kayangel, as well as overall;

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Host records and estimates of percentage fruit infested with oriental fruit fly, breadfruit fly, and mango

fly;

List of ‘hot spots.’

Debriefing and Reports after Each Campaign

Immediately following the completion of each full campaign, a debriefing must be held. The purpose

of the debriefing is to identify the deficiencies in, or problems encountered during, the completed

campaign, to identify the positive aspects of the campaign that can be built on, and to develop

improvements to the operations. This debriefing should involve all staff working on the PFFEP. All

activity leaders and supervisors should provide a verbal report on the activities and problems

encountered. Everyone should be allowed an opportunity to air grievances and make suggestions on

improvements to the program. The aim of this session is to engender teamwork and collaboration.

TRAINING

All staff employed on the PFFEP will require training in the numerous facets of fruit flies, their biology,

and control, and the eradication techniques to be used over the next two years. The training should

cover the following topics:

. Fruit flies and their biology, ecology, quarantine importance, and control;

. The principles of MAT and protein bait sprays as eradication technology;

. The use of helicopters and GPS for applying BactroMAT M-E;

. Applying BactroMAT M-E and Bactrogel protein bait sprays for eradication by ground teams;

. Safe usage of BactroMAT M-E, Bactrogel protein bait sprays and safety procedures in helicopter

use;

. The use of GIS for data collation and reporting, to be provided by Lands and Survey.

As well as training of PFFEP staff, groups such as the schools, community/women’s groups, NGOs,

farmers, backyard growers, and interested members of the public should be exposed to the activities of

the PFFEP. Also, it is the intention of the PFFEP to demonstrate to government people from EQPB,

OERC, Health, and Education and others such as the Palau Conservation Society, the techniques to be

used. For example, a demonstration of the aerial dropping of BactroMAT M-E bait stations will be

arranged so that staff of these departments and groups will be able to actually fly in the helicopter to

witness the accuracy of the dropping process or see the results from the ground. This approach may

dispel any doubts on the efficiency of this technology that may still persist.

All of the proposed training must be completed before the end of June, but the timing will be dependent

upon exactly when the helicopter is positioned and operational. A consultant should be hired to provide

this training.

The opportunity should be taken to train representatives from those PICTs, which may require the

technology related to aerial treatment, using BactroMAT M-E. The responsibility for this will rest

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primarily with SPC FFM. It should not occur prior to November 2001, to allow the Palau authorities to

concentrate on the PFFEP initially.

CONTINGENCIES

The prospects for running a successful eradication program is very good, especially as there is a high

level of support from most areas of government and the private sector. The local knowledge and

appreciation of the losses to fruit production being caused by oriental fruit fly is nation-wide. This

situation lends itself to excellent community cooperation and support, both of which are prerequisites

for conducting a successful eradication program.

However, the PFFEP is dealing with a complex biological system and, consequently, even with the best

technology and predictions and a high level of commitment at all levels, achievements may not go to

plan. Not completing the eradication program of at least oriental fruit fly would be economically

unsound and a waste of funds already expended, particularly if a relatively small amount of additional

funding would be required to run a further one or two campaigns of aerial application of BactroMAT

M-E bait stations and limited Bactrogel protein bait sprays.

A review of the progress and future needs of the PFFEP should be done in about July-August 2002 to

assess the needs for additional resources past the eighth campaign. Between the commencement of the

PFFEP and July 2002, it should be possible to develop an actual cost of further inputs from historical

expenditure, calculated on a per square kilometre basis or on a per campaign basIslands As a

preliminary guide, the estimated cost of one further campaign based on application of BactroMAT M-E

over the whole of Palau plus limited application of Bactrogel would be about USD128,300 per

campaign. Realistically, a campaign involving the whole country is unlikely after eight campaigns, so

this cost would be reduced significantly.

The PFFEP and DAMR should develop a package of fruit fly control practices, which may have to be

implemented if the PFFEP for oriental fruit fly and breadfruit fly were unsuccessful. These control

practices may have to be adopted anyhow, as mango fly will still be present and will cause damage to a

range of fruits after oriental fruit fly is eliminated. The package should include area-wide control or

suppression using BactroMAT C-L bait stations, application of Bactrogel protein bait sprays, bagging

of fruits, and enhancing the use of parasitoids.

If the PFFEP were not entirely successful, the implementation of inter-island quarantine between

islands on which eradication was successful and other islands still infested would be advisable.

Policing this would be very difficult but needs to be addressed by Quarantine and possibly PPM.

REFERENCES

Allwood, A.J., Armstrong, J.W., Englberger, K. and Sengebau, F (1999). Feasibility study on

eradication of fruit flies attracted to methyl eugenol (Bactrocera dorsalis and Bactrocera

umbrosa) in Palau. Report for the Project on Regional Management of Fruit Flies in the Pacific

(SPC). 26pp. + Attachments.

McGregor, A. (2000). A feasibility study of the eradication of oriental fruit fly (Bactrocera dorsalis)

and breadfruit fly (B. umbrosa) from the republic of Palau.44pp + Annex.

161

Annex 8

Imperata cylindrica

Treated areas

162

Annex 9

Mikania micrantha in

estations in Koror

163

Annex 10

Case Study: Imperata cylindrica in Palau

The grass Imperata cylindrica is a serious weed that was discovered by the main airstrip of the Palau

International Airport located in Airai, on the main island of Babeldaob. There was a large infestation of

approximately 60 acres of this grass in the vicinity of the airport in Yap State, Federated States of

Micronesia. An eradication project is well underway in Yap, with funding from the State government

and support from the US Forest Service and the Secretariat of the South Pacific (SPC). It has been

estimated that this project will take 5 to 10 years to complete. A similiar amount of time will be

required to eradicate Imperata cylindrica in Palau.

In the summer of 2000, Palau began an eradication project on Imperata cylindrica. The team working

on this project included the Division of Agriculture and Palau Community College. The grass was only

found within a 5 acre area in Airai by the main airport. After trials to determine the best, most effective

means to eradicate the weed, the team began treating the grass with the herbicide, Round-up. The initial

activities have been very successful and the size of the area of I. cylindrica has decreased significantly

over the past 2 years. The invasive weed team will continue to spray this area over the next few years.

The team plans to eradicate other highly invasive plants found in Koror and Babeldaob, Peleliu and

Angaur. These plants include Mikania micrantha, considered the second worst weed problem in the

Pacific islands (Waterhouse and Norris 1997), chain of love (Antigonon leptopus) and the African tulip

tree (Spathodea campanulata).

July 2000

July 2002

Imperata cylindrica eradication site in July 2000 & July 2002 after two years of spraying herbicide.

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Samoa

No report has been submitted.

The delegate to the GISP Austral-Pacific Workshop was:

Mr. Tofa Eteuati Siitia

Principal Quarantine Officer

Ministry of Agriculture, Forests, Fisheries & Meteorology

P.O. Box 1874

Apia, Samoa

Tel: 685-22561 ext 118

Fax: 685-22171

Email: [email protected]

165

Solomon Islands

Mr. Morgan Wairiu and Mr. Daniel Wagatora

Department of Agriculture and Livestock

Ministry of Agriculture and Lands

P.O. Box G13,

Honiara, Solomon Islands

Tel: 677-28615

Fax: 677-27380

Email:

[email protected]

Introduction

Terrestrial and aquatic invasive alien species (IAS) of, flora, fauna and microorganisms in the Solomon

Islands have not been properly documented. Some have caused catastrophic impacts to the environment

becoming dominant invaders or serious pests (agricultural term) in the ecosystem. Some of these

invasive species have significant economic impacts and are a deterrent to farming, some kinds of

transport and potential future markets.

There is no information currently available on the potential economic, social, and biological impacts of

IAS on the Islands’ ecosystems. No one has seriously looked into documenting or researching the

impact of IAS on the Solomon Islands’ flora and fauna or its economy and society.

1. Main IAS in the Solomon Islands

IAS in the Solomon Islands can be categorized as intentional introductions or as unintentional

introductions. Plants have been intentionally introduced for three main reasons

⇒

agricultural purposes;

⇒

forestry purposes; and

⇒

ornamentals.

Table 1 lists species that have been introduced and have become invasive or are likely to be highly

invasive. The list contains some of the IAS of Solomon Island but is not exhaustive. The categorisation

is not based on standard criteria but mainly on the views of the authors.

Table 1:List of IAS

Dominant plant invaders

Scientific name Common name Habit/ habitat Purpose of

introduction

Acacia fanersiana

Eichhornia crassipes

Morus sp.

Lantana camara

Makania Macrantha

Mimosa invasa

Ellinton's curse

Water hyacinth

Mulberry tree

Lantana

Mile-a-minute

Giant sensitive grass

Thorny scrub

Aquatic herb on wetlands

Tree

Thorny shrub on dry land

Vine

Thorny spiny shrub

Agriculture

Ornamental

Forestry

Ornamentals

Accidental

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Scientific name Common name Habit/ habitat Purpose of

introduction

Mimosa pudica

Psidium guajava

Solanum torvum

Solanun mauritianum

Stachytarpheta

jamaiccencis

Sida rhombifolia

Sida acuta

Sensitive grass

Guava

Prickly solanum

Tobacco Weed

Blue rats tail

Narrow leaf sida

Broom weed

Spiny shrub

Tree

Shrub

Shrub up to 1m pasture

Shrub weed at roadside &

pasture

Shrub weed at roadside &

pasture

Accidental

Agriculture

Accidental

Accident

Moderate plant invaders

Scientific Name Common Name Habit/Habitat Remarks

Cyperus rotundus

Ipmoea aquatica

Luecaena leucocephala

Nymphia giagantia

Bracharia spp.

Sorghum halepense

Pueraria Phaseloides

Pennistum purpurem

Trema aspera

Nat grass

Kangkong

Luecaena

Water lilies

Para grass

Johnson grass

Puero

Elephant grass

Poison peach

Sedge

Succulent vine, waterways

Small tree

Succulent plant, waterways

Grass on dry and wetlands

Grass

Leguminous vine

Grass

Shrub up to 4 m height

Accidental

Agriculture

Ornamentals

Agriculture

Accident

Agriculture

Accident

Other potential plant invaders

Scientific Name Common Name Habit/Habitat Remarks

Acacia spp.

Araucaria heterophyla

Annona glabara

Annona muricata

Annona squamosa

Calliandra

haematocephala

Ficus altissima

Durio zibethinus

Eliaes guinneensis

Royastonia venezuelana

Acacia

Norfork Island pine

Bullocks heart

Sour sop

Sweet sop

Calliandra

Banayan tree

Durian

Oil palm

Royal palm

Tree

Shrub

Tree

Palm

Forestry

Agriculture

Ornamental

Agriculture

Ornamentals

Dominant micro-organism invaders

Scientific Name Common Name Habit/ Habitat Remarks

Phytopthora colocasiae

Taro leaf blight

Fungus attacks taro Accidental

from PNG

Dominant insect invaders

Scientific Name Common Name Habit/Habitat Remarks

Bactrocera cucubitae

Melon fruit fly

Tephritidae - pest of the

cucurbit family

Accidental

167

Aquatic vertebrate and invertebrate invasive species

Scientific Name Common Name Habit/Habitat Remarks

Tilapia spp

Bufo marinus

Kappaphycus alverezii

Tilapia

Common toad

Minorbird

Seaweed

Fish- fresh water fish

Toad- water

Bird

Seaweed

Introduced

Introduced to

control mosquito

Introduced

2. Existing programs on IAS

While the problems associated with IAS exist, there are no formal programs, management efforts or

awareness campaigns in existence in the country.

In terms of legislation, there are no legal instruments to try and stop the introduction of invasive

species. The only instrument that is presently available is the Agriculture Quarantine Act 1982 which is

itself in need of amendment. The Environment Act 1998 tried to cover some aspects of IAS issues, but

this is also inadequate as implementing regulations have not yet been promulgated under the Act.

3. Government agencies/departments and other organizations concerned with IAS

The various functions on IAS are fragmented between various government ministries. The Ministry of

Forestry, Environment and Conservation is the focal point for IAS. However, the ministry does not

have a management strategy in place to address IAS issues and lacks technical manpower and capacity

to implement programs. The Environment and Conservation Division is a very small division with only

four officers. Its capacity to effectively implement such a program is very limited: moreover, lack of

funds from government makes it even more difficult to carry out any work.

The Quarantine and Plant Protection Division of the Ministry of Agriculture and Livestock conducts

surveillance against pests and diseases at all international entry points. The division is under-staffed and

lacks equipment to conduct effective surveillance work. The Division comes across pecies that are

regarded as invasive in the course of its surveillance work and does collect information on IAS that are

of importance to the country’s ecology and economy. However, the term “invasive alien species” has

never been used because the function of this section is mainly on surveillance for pest and diseases.

Customs and Excise Division staff are trained in surveillance for materials like drugs and do regular

checks on all incoming vessels and flights at the same time as Quarantine officers. This combined effort

is very useful in terms of sharing the scarce manpower resources in the respective divisions.

4. Priorities identified for future work

The Solomon Islands do not have a national strategy on IAS but are covered by the Regional Strategy

produced by the South Pacific Regional Environmental Programme (SPREP) under its Regional

Invasive Species Programme. The aim of the Regional Strategy is to promote the efforts of the Pacific

Island Countries in protecting and maintaining the rich and fragile natural heritage of the Pacific Islands

from the impact of invasive species through cooperative efforts to:

168

⇒

develop and maintain an effective, coordinated network of information and technical expertise;

⇒

prevent the introduction of new IAS;

⇒

reduce the impact of existing IAS;

⇒

raise awareness; and

⇒

build the capacity required to manage the threats posed by IAS.

Although this Strategy is in place, it has not been implemented nationally in the Solomon Islands.

SPREP will need to seek assistance from donors to initiate and support implementation of the strategy

in member countries, especially the Solomon Islands.

5. List of experts working in the field of biological invasions

There are no experts in the country.

169

Tokelau

Ms. Luisa Naseri-Sale

Policy Advisory Officer

Agriculture and Environment

Office of the Council of Faipule

Atafu, Tokelau

Tel: (690) 2128

Fax: (690) 2128

Email:

[email protected]

Introduction

Tokelau, a non-self-governing territory under New Zealand’s administration, is the smallest

administrative unit in the South Pacific, consisting of three small atolls with a total land area of about

12 km

, sea area covering 300,000 km

and a population of about 1,700.

The three small coral atolls of Tokelau - Atafu, Nukunonu and Fakaofo - lie between latitudes 8 and 10

degrees south and 171 and 173 degrees west. The central atoll, Nukunonu, is 92 kilometres from Atafu

and 64 kilometres from Fakaofo. Swains Island (Olohega), 200km south of Fakaofo, traditionally

belonged to Tokelau but is now part of American Samoa. Samoa, the nearest sizeable neighbour, is 480

kilometres to the south.

Each atoll consists of a ribbon of coral motu (islets) which vary in length from 90 metres to 6

kilometres, and in width from a few metres to 200 metres. They cover a total land area of 12.7sq km

and at no point do they rise higher than five metres above sea level. This means that the physical

features in Tokelau are very limited indeed, making the territory vulnerable to sea level rising caused by

the greenhouse effect. The three atolls also includes 165 km

of enclosed lagoons and 290,000 km

territorial sea that make up Tokelau's Exclusive Economic Zone.

The atolls are composed of calcium carbonate reef, sands and rock. Generally the soils are highly

porous and nutrient poor: they have a low humus content and high surface salinity and are of very high

alkalinity. These porous soils have prevented agricultural development beyond a subsistence economy.

Only a few food crops are supported by this infertile land and these are confined to the supply of

domestic needs: coconut (Cocos nucifera), breadfruit (Artocarpus altilis), pandanus (Pandanus spp.),

giant swamp taro (Cytosperma chamissonis), taamu (Zanthosoma sagitifolum), taro (Colocasia

esculanta) and banana (Musa spp.). The forest vegetation is made up of coconut palms, kanava (Cordia

subcordata), pukakakai (Pisonia grandis), and pandanus. Tiumfetta procumbens, Solanum virdee, and a

number of fern species make up the lower levels of forest cover.

The average mean temperature is 28

C. Rainfall is heavy but irregular, and a fall of eight centimetres or

more in a single day is possible at any time of the year. Tokelau is at the north edge of the main

hurricane belt, but tropical storms sometimes sweep through between November and February. Severe

tropical cyclones have become more frequent with the last two in 1990 and 1991 (Ioane 1994).

Hurricane Ofa (February 1990) broke across the atolls, washing topsoil away and contaminating the

freshwater lens. Residual salt prevented new plant growth for months. The recent increase in such

storms seems to be related to global warming.

The purpose of this report is to provide information on the programmes and resources regarding the

issue of IAS in Tokelau.

170

Geographic Map

171

1. Main IAS in Tokelau

⇒

Polynesian rats (Rattus exulan)

Considered a primary pest, it is estimated that the destruction caused by this pest accounts for about

40% of the total coconut production in the country. For the past 2-3 decades, bromodialone wax rat bait,

with warfarin as the active ingredient, has been used. This practice is now in need of new alternatives as

it is considered ineffective, costly and environmentally unfriendly (it is not target specific about tends to

destroy other animals).

Due to Tokelau’s isolation, limited financial resources and lack of technical knowledge, it is difficult to

identify and utilize other effective and cheaper means of controlling or totally eradicating the rats.

⇒

Rhinoceros beetle (Oryctes rhinoceros)

This is another very serious pest of coconut and has a record damage rate. In 1997, a biological control

programme was launched by the Secretariat of the Pacific Community (SPC) with assistance from

Samoa. This involved the use of pathogens including the green muscardine fungus Metarrhizium

anispoliae and the Baculovirus. In December 2002, SPC again released biocontrol agents.

⇒

Yellow crazy ant (Anoplolepis gracilipes)

This species arrived relatively recently – probably in 1999 - but emerged in significant numbers in 2001

and its population is still rapidly increasing. It is concentrated mainly on Nukunonu but recently in

Fakaofo certain sites have become infected with the ants and there is a fear that they will spread rapidly

to other areas.

⇒

Soft brown scale (Coccus hesperidium)

At present, the scale insect is confined only to Nukunonu within the immediate surroundings of the

village. Plants infested are pawpaws, bananas, gardenia and lily.

⇒

Spiralling whitefly (Aleurodicus disperses)

Fakaofo first became infested in 1989. In 1991, SPC released laboratory-reared pupae of the parasite

Encarsia haitiensIslands The problem has since decreased and is now under control. Infested plants

include papaya, banana, and frangipani.

2. Existing coordination and programs on IAS

Tokelau is no exception to other countries in recognizing the seriousness of the IAS problem. However,

the shortage of technically trained personnel and the inadequate quarantine risk assessment facilities

continues to be a problem.

Tokelau is currently developing an IAS plan and programme with the SPC Plant Protection Service (for

contact information, see 5 below).

It is also developing public awareness campaigns at local level amongst the three communities.

172

3. Government departments/agencies and other organisations concerned with IAS

⇒

Natural Resources & Environment Unit (Office of the Council of Faipule)

This Unit, which comes under the umbrella of the Office of the Council of Faipule, is the government

agency that is responsible for the protection, preservation and the conservation overall of Tokelau’s

land and also marine resources.

Mose Pelasio

Policy Advisory Officer

Tel : (690) 3127

Email: [email protected]

Luisa Naseri Sale

Policy Advisory Officer (Agriculture and Environment)

Tel : (690) 2128

Fax : (690) 2128

Email: [email protected]

Unit Natresen

Office of the Council of Faipule

C/o Tokelau Apia Liaison Office

P.O. Box 865, Apia, Samoa

⇒

Office of the Council of Elders (one for each island: Fakaofo/Nukunonu/Atafu)

⇒

Department of Health

Nukunonu

Tokelau

⇒

Transport Tokelau

Tokelau Apia Liaison Office

P.O. Box 865

Apia, SAMOA

4. Priorities identified for future work

4.1 Control measures

The incursion of the soft brown scale (Coccus hesperidum) and the yellow crazy ant (Anonplolepis

gracilipes) on Nukunonu and Fakaofo are new pest records for Tokelau. These areas have thus been

prioritized and identified as needing immediate action to control the spread of these pests. Tokelau is

working very closely with SPC to bring the problem under control. Assistance from interested

individuals from other institutions has also been welcomed.

173

4.2 Legislation

Tokelau is currently reviewing the Animal Regulations 1991 and the Plant Regulations 1999. Extensive

work has been done by Tokelau and SPC in this area in recent months.

Working closely with SPC, Tokelau is considering a regional move to harmonize all quarantine laws,

with a focus on trade relations between Tokelau and other countries, especially Samoa as the port of

entry into Tokelau. There appears to be a need in the region to strengthen capacity to meet the standards

for quarantine services established by regional and international organizations.

Draft Tokelau Biosecurity Rules 2003 have therefore been developed. It is hoped that these Rules will

be tabled at the June/July 2003 General Fono (equivalent of Parliament) for endorsement.

5. List of experts working in the field of biological invasions

⇒

Experts working for the Secretariat of the Pacific Community who have experience of IAS issues in

Tokelau include:

Dr. Jacqui Wright

SPC Plant Protection Service

Tel : (679) 337 0733

Fax: (679) 338 6326/337 0021

Email: [email protected]

Mr. Sada Nand Lal

Entomologist

Tel : (679) 337 0733

Fax: (679) 338 6326/337 0021

Email: [email protected]

Secretariat of the Pacific Community

Private Mail Bag

Suva

Fiji

⇒

Other experts include:

Dr. Phil Lester

Entomologist

School of Biological Sciences

Victoria University of Wellington

P.O. Box 600, Wellington, NEW ZEALAND

Tel: (644) 463 5096

Fax: (644) 463 5331

Email: [email protected]

174

Kingdom of Tonga

Mr. Sione Foliaki

Deputy Director

Quarantine and Quality Management Division

Ministry of Agriculture & Forestry

PO Box 14, Nuku’Alofa, Tonga

Tel: (676) 24257

Fax: (676) 24922

Email:

[email protected]

Introduction

The Kingdom of Tonga is situated just west of the International Dateline, east of Fiji, north of New

Zealand, and southwest of Hawai’i. It is the only Polynesian country never to have been colonized and

the only monarchy in the Pacific, with rich cultural history and traditions. Tonga has many sought-after

attributes including a pristine natural environment, warm tropical climate, and beautiful reefs and

beaches.

Tonga’s economy is based on agriculture (70%), fisheries, remittances from people living overseas, and

tourism. Examples of important economic activities include:

⇒

the export of squash-pumpkin to Japan (US$15 m/yr);

⇒

vanilla export to U.S., European Union, Japan, New Zealand, Australia (US$5 m/yr);

⇒

root crops export (taro, yam, cassava) (>US$5 m/yr);

⇒

fresh fish exports (tuna, snapper, etc.) to Japan, U.S., New Zealand (>US$10 m/yr); and

⇒

tourism and ecotourism, such as whale watching (now a major activity with an estimated value

>US$10 m/yr).

Traditional food crops need to be maintained in Tonga because the residents cannot afford to import

food crops. Tonga grows food crops for consumption and export, and has fresh fruit and vegetable

markets open to the general public.

1. Status of IAS in Tonga

Tonga is highly vulnerable to new IAS and has considerable trouble managing existing invasives.

Pathways and vectors for introduction of non-native species to Tonga include:

⇒

direct flights to Hawai'i, Fiji, New Zealand, and Australia (e.g. tourists bringing in non-native plant

specimens). Tonga has no X-ray machines or dogs so it would be necessary to do a full search to

detect material. The aircraft themselves also provide vectors for introductions.;

⇒

ships and yachts;

Adapted from an oral presentation given at the workshop entitled, Prevention and Management of Invasive Alien

Species: Forging Cooperation throughout the Austral-Pacific, 15-17 October 2003, Honolulu, Hawai’i.

175

⇒

the import of personal effects, mainly from Australia and Hawai'i. Even if inspections are carried

out, it is impossible to ensure that these effects are free of IAS;

⇒

risk goods (e.g. used machinery, used cars from Japan, construction materials);

⇒

natural disaster relief and assistance (including bulldozers, chainsaws, foods and seeds); and

⇒

forestry.

The marine environment is particularly vulnerable off the main island of Tonga, which has implications

for fish exports and traditional fishing practices (e.g. foraging for shellfish). Ballast water is a

significant pathway for IAS.

Species information in Tonga is very limited. Baseline surveys for animals and plants are needed as

well as surveys to update the list of pests and IAS. Marine surveys are needed to identify species

already present in Tongan waters, and which of these species may be invasive.

2. Government departments/agencies and other organizations concerned with IAS

Stakeholders currently involved with the management of IAS include:

⇒

Ministry of Agriculture and Forestry (MAF).

The MAF Quarantine and Quality Management Division oversees: compliance with international

standards set by International Plant Protection Convention (IPPC), International Organization for

Epizotics (OIE), or Codex Alimentarius and recognized under the World Trade Organization

Agreement on the Application of Sanitary and Phytosanitary Measures (WTO-SPS Agreement);

import risk analysis; import standards; import and export inspection certification; surveillance; and

emergency response plans. These powers are exercised in consultation with the Secretariat of the

Pacific Community (SPC), especially the SPC Plant Protection Service and the Pacific Plant

Protection Organization.

Ministry of Agriculture & Forestry

P.O. Box 14

Nuku’Alofa, Tonga

Tel: (676) 24257

Fax: (676) 24922

Email: [email protected]

⇒

Department of Environment

This works in consultation with SPREP on conservation and research.

Department of Environment

P.O. Box 917

Nuku’alofa, Tonga

Tel: 676-25050

Fax: 676-25051

Email: [email protected]

176

⇒

Ministry of Fisheries

This deals with marine import and export requirements and marine conservation and research.

⇒

Ministry of Health

This deals with IAS of public health concern, based on standards set by Codex Alimentarius. It

works in close consultation with the Ministry of Agriculture and Forestry.

3. Priorities identified for future work

Tonga needs to address a series of constraints on prevention and management of IAS. These include:

⇒

technical deficiencies in national and regional quarantine services (lack of capacity to meet the

requirements of the WTO-SPS Agreement), border protection and trade facilitation functions;

⇒

lack of trained staff and necessary capacity;

⇒

poor facilities and infrastructure;

⇒

diminishing access to methyl bromide for use as a pesticide as a result of its impacts on the

environment (this puts a constraint on international and regional trade);

⇒

shortage and/or inaccessibility of scientific and technical information and expertise required for pest

risk analysis and import risk analysis and for the management of IAS and living modified

organisms/genetically modified organisms;

⇒

cost of accessing and updating technical information (e.g. web, electronic information sources).

⇒

the lack of up-to-date surveys on pests and IAS;

⇒

outdated and/or inconsistent legislation to address agricultural-environment-marine-public health

concerns;

⇒

poor coordination and collaboration of work programs between government agencies concerned

with IAS (e.g. agriculture, fisheries, environment, public health) and with other stakeholders (e.g.

shipping and airline agents, non-governmental organizations);

⇒

duplication of international/regional work programs, leading to a waste of resources and efforts

(e.g. the International Plant Protection Convention and the Convention on Biological Diversity, SPC

and SPREP);

⇒

lack of funding or budget allocations for IAS work from the government, regional or international

organizations; and

⇒

lack of awareness among the general public, politicians, decision-makers, and the private sector.

177

Tuvalu

No report was submitted. The delegates invited to the workshop could not attend due to travel

difficulties. Their contact details, and comments on Tuvalu from the report of the island assessment

consultation, which they attended in lieu of the regional workshop, are included below.

Ms. Pepetua Latasi

Assistant Environment Officer

Ministry of Environment, Energy & Tourism

Tuvalu

Tel: 688 20 179

Fax: 688 20 83

Ms. Leliua Vaiutu

Agriculture Plant Protect Officer

Department of Agriculture

Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment

Private Mail Bag, Government Building

Vaiaku, Funafuti

Tel: 688 20 825 or 20 186

Fax: 688 20 826

[email protected]

Tuvalu is a small island nation in the Pacific made up of nine islands totaling 25 square kilometers.

Forest covers approximately 67% of the land. Three of the major IAS in Tuvalu are the coconut scale

insect (Aspidiotus destructor) which damages food crops (e.g. breadfruit [Artocarpus altilis], sweet

potatoes [Ipomoea batatas]), and impacts both social and economic systems; the termite (Neotermes

rainbowi), which topples coconut palms, and the pink mealy bug (Macinellicocus hirsutus), a pest of

the food staple breadfruit. A biological control program exists for coconut scale. The Secretariat of the

South Pacific (SPC) provides the control agents and they are released at the site of infestation. The

agricultural department provides advice on how to treat pests and planting of resistant trees. The South

Pacific Regional Environmental Programme (SPREP) also works closely with environment and the

local government. Tuvalu’s primary needs include (1) identification of non-native and native species,

(2) IAS survey results from other countries, and (3) expert technical advice and facilities for IAS

identification.

178

Vanuatu

Ms. Phyllis Maike-Ganileo

Wan Smol Bag Theatre

PO Box 1024

Port Vila, Vanuatu

Tel: 678-27119/27464

Fax: 678-25308

Email:

[email protected]

and

Mr. Maurice Horry

Senior Quarantine Officer

Vanuatu Government

Box 271, Quarantine Department

Luganville, Santo, Vanuatu

Telephone: 678-36385/36275

Fax: 678-36276

Email:

[email protected]

Introduction

Vanuatu, formerly known as New Hebrides, comprises some 80 islands and islets extending in a Y shape

over 800 km from north to south. The land area is 11,880 km

with the largest island being Espiritu Santo

(3947 km

). Other large islands include Malekula, Efate, Ambrym, Pentecost, Epi, Erromango, Malo, Tanna

and Aneityum. The Torres and Banks islands are the most northerly and are one of the major gateways for

introduction of certain species that have become invasive to native species of Vanuatu.

The ethnic composition of the population of 197,000 is 98% Melanesian Ni-Vanuatu: the remaining two

percent are European, Micronesian, Polynesian, Asian and other Melanesians. Eighty percent of the

population live in rural areas where subsistence farming is the major activity.

Cocoa, coconut, coffee and beef production forms the basis of agriculture. Copra, cocoa and beef make up

over 70% of the country’s export earnings. The export of fresh fruits and root crops is becoming

increasingly, important. Because Vanuatu is dependent on agricultural exports, it is crucial that there is

proper control and management of alien species that have already become or have potential to become

invasive pests and weeds affecting production levels.

A report on the Vanuatu National Biodiversity Strategy and Action Plan (NBSAP) Project compiled by a

team in the Environment Unit noted that biodiversity in Vanuatu is much richer than previously estimated.

This assertion was based on other works previously carried out. One of the threats pointed out by the report

as a threat to biodiversity is introduced alien species that either prey on or out-compete native flora and

fauna. Unfortunately, not many scientific studies have been carried out on specific species, assessing the

extent of their impacts and displacement of native species.

For the purposes of this report, invasive alien species (IAS) are defined as organisms (insects, fungal and

viral micro-organisms, animal, plants and other aquatic life forms) introduced intentionally or

unintentionally into an area. Due to lack of predators in its new habitat, the introduced species quickly

multiply and spread and in most instances out-compete the native species.

179

1. Main alien species introduced into Vanuatu

The table below lists the various alien species of aquatic and non-aquatic flora and fauna introduced

into Vanuatu. This list is not exhaustive since more work still needs to be done on identifying the

existing alien species in the country. An area in which little work has been done so far is assessing the

extent of the ecological, economic and health impacts of the introduced invasive species.

The NBSAP project mentioned earlier has worked on the identification of terrestrial, marine and

freshwater species including introduced invasive species. The NBSAP project also works with

government departments and communities to identify key issues in terms of biodiversity that need to be

addressed. One of these issues is introduced IAS.

Common name Scientific name Current/potential impacts

Invasive alien terrestrial species: plants

Cordia

Cordia allidora

Introduced in 1970s by Dept of Forestry for lumber. Lack of management and

failure to establish market in the region has now lead to cordia being invasive.

Very fast growing and out competes native species thus compromising

biodiversity wherever it is established.

Elephant grass

Panicum maximum

Introduced as pasture but cattle cannot eat matured grass. Out-competes native

grasses wherever establishes it itself.

Agriculture rope

Cycling

sp.

Aquatic plant

Salvania

Water lettuce

Pistia stratiotes

Very fast growing and can cover slow moving water surface in very short time.

Can infill shallow water with decomposing plant matter, deoxygenate and taint

water, leading to destruction of natural aquatic ecosystems. Takes up

swimming/recreational areas

Parthenium

weed

Parthenium

hysterophorus

Grows aggressively/spreads very quickly. Poisonous for livestock (Beef industry

is one of the major export industries in Vanuatu). Causes skin irritation in

humans.

Giant Mimosa

Big gras nil

Mimosa invisa

Introduced for cattle feed. Cattle feed on younger plants but matured ones are

woody and has thorns. Very fast growing and grows very thick completely killing

out any vegetation wherever it establishes itself.

Mile-a-minute

American rope

Mikania micrantha

Very fast growing. Beneficial in one respect because it keeps moisture in ground,

but not beneficial in that growth can result from overgrazing and can completely

overtake areas retarding pasture growth.

Big leaf rope

Merremia peltata?

Introduced by Americans during WW2 to be used in camouflaging. Very

aggressive in growth completely covers occupied areas.

Water hyacinth

Eichhornia

crassipes

Lantana

Lanta camara

Kasis

Leucaena

leucocephalia

Very fast growing, cattle feed on young plants and improves soil quality.

Crowds out other plant species.

Spiny amaranth

Amaranthus

spinosus

Soursop

Annona muricata

Wild peanut

Cassia tora

Nasasa

Codiaeum

variegatum

Thick head

Crassocephalum

crepidioides

Streaked

rattlepod

Crotalaria pallida

Nutgrass

Cyperus rotundus

Nettle tree

Dendrocnide sp.

Crow’s foot

grass

Eleusine indica

180

Common name Scientific name Current/potential impacts

Invasive alien terrestrial species: plants

Asthma plant

Euphorbia hirta

Giant mimosa Mimosa invisa

Sensitive plant Mimosa pudica

Balsam pear Mormordica

charantia

Big bol tree Pangium edule

T-grass Paspalum

conjugatum

Foetid passion

fruit

Passiflora foetida

Guava Psidium guava

Broom weed Sida acuta

Broom Sida rhombifolia

Wild

aubergine

Solanum torvum

Blue rats tail Stachytarpheta

urticifolia

Invasive alien terrestrial species: animals

Mynah Bird Acridothere tristis Eats fruits from gardens. Preys on other bird species, particularly their

eggs. Preys on certain insect species that prey on other harmful insects

Predatory

Snail

Euglandina rosea

Giant African

Snail

Achatina fulica Early maturation

Fire Ant Wasmannia

auropunctata

Deters people from gardening and other economic productive activities.

Stings people in private parts of the body, making it difficult to deal with

in public. Affects organisms that enhance growth in some plants/crops, in

the long run affecting crop production

Fruit Fly Bactrocera

trilineola, B.

minuta, B.

umbrosa,, B.

paraxanthodes,

Species that are currently damaging fruits

Coconut scale

Insect

Aspidiotus

destructor

Insert their proboscius into the leaves and suck the sap

Coconut

Hispine Beetle

Brontispa

longissima

Larvae feeds on the surface of the unopened fronds, retarding growth of

young coconuts

Elephant

Beetle

Xylotrupes gideon Damage the midribs of coconut leaves- minimal damage so far in

Vanuatu

Green Scale Coccus celatus/

Coccus

hesperidum

Sucks the sap out of tree tissue (coffee tree) and become attached to the

stem and branches

Kava Borer

Weevil/Ginger

Weevil

Elytroteinus

subtruncatus

Larva and adult complete their life cycle in kava plant (Piper

methysticum) boring down into the rhizome

Taro Beetle Papuan sp. Attack many crops but more serious on taro. It bores into tuber, making

tunnels permitting entry of other organisms causing decay. Four species

found in Vanuatu

181

Invasive alien terrestrial species: animals

Rose Beetle Adoratus versutus Eats cocoa, yam and other plants leaves affecting biological functions

through effect on the photosynthesis process. This affects the crops

ability to grow thus affecting their crop production.

Rat Damage cocoa and coconut fruits reducing production

Fruit Piercing

Moth

Othreis fullonia Damages lots of fruits affecting production both for home consumption

as well as for markets

Taro

Planthopper

Tarophagus

proserpina

Heavy infestation causes taro plants to wilt and die

Mango Seed

Weevil

Sternochetus

mangiferae

Attacks mango fruits

Banana

Weevil Borer

Cosmopolites

sordidus

Grubs of the weevil bore down into the corm of the basal part of the plant

creating tunnels up to a entimeter wide, severely weakening the plant

Banana Scab

Moth

Nacoleia

octasema

Lays its eggs on unopened inflorescence of young leaves and when

hatched, caterpillars feed on banana flowers and skin of young

developing fruit, causing rough, gray scabby scars

Brown Pod Botryodiplodia

theobromae

Dieback disease associated with death of the cocoa tree if left untereated

after attack

Phellinus noxius Fungal disease causing cocoa tree to wilt when fungus destroys the roots

or girdles the trunk

Helminthosporium

sp.

Debilitates young coconuts, causing extensive leaf spotting and stunting

growth

Cucumber mosaic

cucumovirus

Kava virus

Foliar Decay Myndus taffini Affects mostly the higher yielding introduced varieties of coconuts

Coffee Leaf

Rust

Hemileia vastatrix

Coconut Flat

Moth

Agonoxena

argaula

Sweet Potato

Hawkmoth

Agrius convolvuli

Pumpkin

Beetle

Aulacophora

similes

Coconut

Shield Bug

Axiagastus

campbelli

Breadfruit Fly Bactrocera

umbrosa

Green Scale Coccus viridis 295

Spotted Plant

Eating Weevil

Epilachna spp.

230

28-spotted

Ladybird

Epitachna

vigintioctopuntata

Sweet Potato

Weevil

Euscepes

postfasciatus

Mirid Bug Halticus sp.

Ant Neotermes spp.

209

Citrus Leaf

Miner

Phyllocnistis

citrella 220

Mealy Bug Pseudococcus

spp.295

Stem Bleeding

182

Invasive marine/freshwater species

Tilapia Oreochromis

sp./Poecilia sp.

Introduced by Dept of Health to combat mosquitoes thus is deemed

beneficial from their point of view. Has become invasive in some

lakes but also food source for some people

Mosquitofish Gambusia affinis Introduced to combat malaria through eating of mosquito larvae.

Predates on native fish and prawn larvae. Attack larger fish by

nipping off their fins causing paralysis and eventual death

Carps Cyprinus sp. Contributes to high turbidity of lake water due to sucking mode of

feeding. Breeds very rapidly. Competes with native species for food

resources.

Guppies Poecillia reticulata Introduced in Vanuatu to help control malaria by feeding on

mosquito larvae. Considered pest to native freshwater fauna

because of its rapid breeding habits and ability to dominate,

crowding out native species.

2. Summary of existing strategy and programs on IAS

2.1 Preventive measures

⇒

requirement of permits from appropriate authorities before importation of any live species;

⇒

integration of quarantine activities and procedures into the high school curriculum for awareness

among students;

⇒

public awareness programs through use of various mediums; and

⇒

continuous monitoring of high risk areas by Department of Quarantine.

2.2 Control measures

⇒

Fire ants

Spraying of all flights and boats from Banks and Torres islands with insecticides; restriction of

moving plants and other materials from Banks and Torres to all other islands; laying baits in high

risk areas every quarter to assess area of spread of fruit flies and fire ants; where it is too expensive

to eradicate, containment and control of spread measures are employed; continuous community

education on importance and ways of limiting spread of ants; posters and pamphlets distributed. The

Wan Smol Bag Theatre is preparing a play on the management of fire ants and other invasive

species.

⇒

Fruit piercing moth

Funding has been secured and research on the different species and the extent of their impacts

started in September 2002.

⇒

Fruit fly

Laying of traps in high-risk areas (especially around urban areas, airports, wharves, and the

University of the South Pacific Campus where students from all over the Pacific are concentrated).

Fruit flies are collected on a weekly basis, identified and sent to Fruit Fly Office for analysis. Public

education and awareness programs an ongoing activity by the Department of Quarantine through

community outreach, radio programs, posters and pamphlets.

183

⇒

Cordia forests

Forest plantations were returned to landowners and encouraged to manage and use forests for

domestic needs. Department of Forestry and Environment Unit are collaborating on looking for

potential market for cordia.

3. Government departments/agencies and other organisations concerned with IAS

⇒

Environment Unit/National Biodiversity Conservation Strategy Project

⇒

Department of Quarantine

Mr. Maurice Horry

Senior Quarantine Officer

Vanuatu Government

Box 271, Quarantine Department

Luganville, Santo

Vanuatu, Southwest Pacific

Tel: 678-36385/36275

Fax: 678-36276

Email: [email protected]

⇒

Department of Agriculture & Animal Production

⇒

Department of Forestry

⇒

Department of Fisheries

⇒

Non-government agencies

Ms. Phyllis Ganielo

Environment Officer

Wan Smol Bag Theatre

P.O. Box 1024, Port Vila Vanuatu

Tel: 678-27119/27464

Fax: 678-25308

Email: [email protected].vu

4. Priorities identified for future work

4.1 Policy review and development

⇒

enact new legislation on Environmental Management and Conservation that gives the Director of

Environment Unit the right to draft regulations pertaining to biodiversity, including IAS;

⇒

review all existing laws to ensure they are coherent and consistent with respect to IAS;

184

⇒

identify an organisation with an overall coordinating responsibility and with authority to define that

a species, regardless of benefits, has the potential to be invasive.

4.2 Management of new introductions and of existing IAS

⇒

more collaboration between all agencies involved in management of IAS;

⇒

identify, share, record results of successful and unsuccessful trials for future reference. SPC to

maintain a regional net-based list of experience;

⇒

research and documentation of IAS and their economic and ecological impacts, leading to setting

up of database;

⇒

house all reports at the national library for everybody’s access;

⇒

inter-island controls on moving dirty machinery;

⇒

now that the Department of Quarantine identified fire ants as one of the current major concerns,

enable Provinces to take up the responsibility of managing the spread of fire ants; and

⇒

establish demonstration projects with landholder communities as trials to control or find alternative

uses for introduced species that have become problems.

5. List of experts working in the field of biological invasions

No information supplied.

6. Bibliographic references

Allwood, A.J., Tumukon, T., Tau, D. and A. Kassim. 1997. Fruit fly fauna in Vanuatu. Pp. 77-80 in

Allwood, A.J. and R.A.I. Drew (eds.). Management of fruit flies in the Pacific, Regional

Symposium, Nadi, Fiji, 28-31 October 1996. ACIAR Proceedings No. 76. 267 pp.

Environment Unit- NBSAP Project. 2002. Minutes of strategic one-day consultation on introduced and

invasive species. 8

August 2002.

Environment Unit. 1999. National biodiversity conservation strategy. Port Vila, Vanuatu.

Evans, T.R., MacFarlane, D.C. and B. Mullen. 1990. Weed identification and management in Vanuatu

pastures. Vanuatu Pasture Improvement Project Technical Bulletin No. 2, Vanuatu. 40 pp.

Nimoho, L. 2000. Freshwater fish and crustaceans of Vanuatu. Port Vila: Vanuatu.

Republic of Vanuatu. 2002. Bill for the environmental management and conservation. Port Vila,

Vanuatu.

185

Santo Industrial Forest Plantation Project. 1994. End of phase 1 report. Port Vila, Vanuatu.

Tapisuwe, A. 2001. Invasive pest species in Vanuatu, Port Vila, Vanuatu.

Tumukon, T. undated. Major insect pests of agricultural export crops. Unpublished report.

Tumukon, T. undated. Major weeds of food crops in Vanuatu. FAO Sub-regional Office for Pacific

Islands, Apia-Samoa.