Longhorn beetles are a very large family of insects (Cerambycidae) with over 26,000 species! While they can vary greatly in size, color, and shape, they share some distinctive common traits: they are wood-boring insects, with extra long antennae. Unlike some other beetles, longhorns have antennae that are as long or longer than the length of… Read More…
Ramie Moth (Arcte coerula) The ramie moth is a destructive caterpillar that can completely defoliate native mamaki. This caterpillar was first discovered in November 2018 on Maui where it was destroying mamaki plants. Since then, it has spread to the Big Island and found on the east side in November 2020. This is the… Read More…
The Mystery Plant A critical part of the work we do at BIISC is looking for new, potentially damaging, arrivals, In late 2017, BIISC botanists collected a plant on a trailside early detection survey on the Kona side near the Makaula-O’oma State Forest Reserve. It was at first easy to overlook, with no eye-catching characteristics… Read More…
Our office in Hilo is currently closed to the public. We are committed to protecting our island and all of our wonderful community from the impacts of invasive species as much as we can, and right now, it looks like that includes the viral kind! In aligning with current recommendations, we are taking these steps… Read More…
We are in awe of the fortitude, patience, and commitment required of the teachers of 2020. BIISC is committed to helping teachers provide place-based, environmental education experiences for the students of the Big Island. Whether you are in the classroom, trying to manage a “hybrid” model, or negotiating multiple platforms to bring your students the… Read More…
The Big Island Invasive Species Committee (BIISC) is a project of the University of Hawaii Pacific Cooperative Studies Unit. The Committee is a voluntary partnership of government, private and non-profit organizations, and concerned individuals working to address invasive species issues on the island of Hawaii.
