Brazilian tree intended to feed Hawaiians now threatens forests
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In 1825, officials in Hawaii introduced the red araça, a Brazilian plant, to increase food sources for the local population.
The plant, scientifically known as Psidium cattleianum, thrived in the Hawaiian environment but eventually became an invasive species. Without the natural controls present in its native Brazil, the araça spread, forming dense forests that hinder the growth of native vegetation. Researchers responded to this challenge by employing a biological control method.
They utilized Tectococcus ovatus, a Brazilian insect that feeds exclusively on the red araça, to limit its spread. Hawaiian authorities approved the insect’s use in 2012, seeking a way to reduce the plant’s presence without harming other species. To improve the efficiency of this biological control, scientists began using drones. A study comparing manual application with drone deployment found drones reduced treatment time per tree from 12 minutes to 2.8 minutes.
After one year, drone application increased insect colonization rates from 38% to 63%. The Kūhualūlū project, named for this increased capacity, now uses drones to distribute the insects in hard-to-reach areas and researchers believe this combination of biological control and automation could work against invasive species elsewhere.
