Look up: the importance of CRB awareness in Hawaii
Posted on Jul. 1, 2025 / Invasive Species, People in the News, Plant Pests, Arboriculture, Edible Landscapes / Subscribe 0
By: Andrea Taganap
I am an upcoming senior at Maui High School, interning with the Maui County Department of Agriculture. Through this internship, I’ve learned that it is important to protect our land and spread awareness about the impacts of invasive species. One of the biggest threats I have learned about is the Coconut Rhinoceros Beetle (CRB). CRB is a harmful pest causing serious problems for Hawai‘i’s food crops and iconic palm trees. First discovered on Oʻahu in 2013, this beetle has already damaged coconut trees in other Pacific islands. Now farmers, environmental groups, and local residents in Hawai‘i are worried about what it might do here.
CRB damages coconut palms by boring into the tops of the trees to feed on sap and soft palm tissues. This prevents new leaves from opening properly and causes deep, V-shaped cuts on them. Over time, the damage can cause trees to lose their leaves, become weak, and even die. The harm is more than just cosmetic; coconut palms play an important role in Hawai‘i’s environment, agriculture, and culture. They provide shade for crops like taro and bananas, help block strong winds, and supply materials for traditional crafts and ceremonies.
Figure 1. V-shaped cuts in palm leaves caused by CRB. Photo Credit: CRB Response Hawai‘i
Although the beetle doesn’t feed on fruits or vegetables directly, it still poses a serious threat to Hawai‘i’s food supply. When palms die, the crops growing underneath or nearby, such as taro, banana, sugarcane, and sweet potatoes, are left exposed to too much sun, wind, and pests. This can reduce crop yields and even destroy entire harvests, especially in rural and backyard farms.
Another concern is how the CRB reproduces. While adult beetles damage trees, their larvae grow in decomposing organic matter like compost, mulch, and green waste piles commonly found in yards, gardens, and farms across the islands. If these piles are not regularly chipped, heated to a specific temperature, or properly covered, they become ideal breeding grounds for the larvae. Once mature, adult beetles emerge and seek out nearby palms to infest. Transporting mulch from infested areas can quickly spread the pest across communities.
Figure 2. CRB identification guide. Photo Credit: CRB Response Hawai‘i
The Hawai‘i Department of Agriculture and the Maui Invasive Species Committee (MISC) emphasize the critical role of the community in stopping the spread of CRB. Early detection is key, and residents are urged not to move mulch or green waste between regions unless it has been properly treated. At home, compost piles should be monitored and regularly brought to temperature to kill any potential CRB eggs or larvae.
Farmers and landscapers are adapting to this new threat. Some are improving sanitation at green waste storage sites, while others are exploring biological controls that target CRB larvae without harming native species. Although these efforts are still in the early stages, they show that fighting CRB will require both public cooperation and scientific innovation.
Like many invasive species in Hawai‘i, the Coconut Rhinoceros Beetle reminds us of how fragile the balance of our ecosystems truly is. Coconut palms are more than just scenery; they are anchors of culture, agriculture, and community life. Their loss would impact traditional ceremonies, crafts, food production, and even shoreline protection. Already, some Maui residents have noticed fewer coconut palms in public areas, as trees have been removed as a precaution. This is a stark warning of what could happen if the beetle continues to spread unchecked.
Figure 3. Bore holes on the base of palm fronds caused by CRB. Photo credit: CRB Response Hawai‘i
The good news is Hawai‘i can learn much from other island nations. Other Pacific islands have faced CRB outbreaks and demonstrated that it can be contained through rapid, coordinated action. This requires vigilance. Every household, school, farm, and landscaper has a role to play. Whether it’s checking palm trees regularly, securing compost piles, or educating others, every step counts.
The battle against the Coconut Rhinoceros Beetle is not just about saving palm trees; it’s about protecting Hawai‘i’s food sovereignty, cultural traditions, and the health of the land. With awareness, education, and unity, we can work together to keep our islands strong and thriving.
Figure 4. Report potential CRB sightings to 643-PEST. Photo credit: 643-PEST.
Andrea Taganap, Maui High School Senior, Intern with the Maui County Department of Agriculture.
0 Comments