Locations of tree density and monitoring plots during koa moth outbreak, Hawaii Island, 2013-2014
Dates
Publication Date
2021-03-18
Start Date
2013-09-11
End Date
2014-02-20
Citation
Banko, P.C., and Peck, R.W., 2021, Hawaii Island tree response to koa moth outbreak, 2013-2014: U.S. Geological Survey data release, https://doi.org/10.5066/P9HU5SBC.
Summary
Observers assessed the density and monitored the defoliation, refoliation, and survival of koa (Acacia koa) trees during the 2013-2014 outbreak of the koa moth (Scotorythra paludicola) at Hakalau Forest National Wildlife Refuge. Koa trees were tagged, classified by size class, and assessed on 55 plots (10-m radius) randomly located in two forest types (reforestation and natural forest) near Pedro and Pua Akala roads. Density and size class distribution was also assessed for ohia (Metrosideros polymorpha) trees on each plot. This dataset provides the location data for all plots.
Summary
Observers assessed the density and monitored the defoliation, refoliation, and survival of koa (Acacia koa) trees during the 2013-2014 outbreak of the koa moth (Scotorythra paludicola) at Hakalau Forest National Wildlife Refuge. Koa trees were tagged, classified by size class, and assessed on 55 plots (10-m radius) randomly located in two forest types (reforestation and natural forest) near Pedro and Pua Akala roads. Density and size class distribution was also assessed for ohia (Metrosideros polymorpha) trees on each plot. This dataset provides the location data for all plots.
Data were collected to document the extent of defoliation, foliage regrowth, and mortality of koa trees due to a rare but massive outbreak of koa moths at Hakalau Forest National Wildlife Refuge, an important area for bird conservation in Hawaii. The response of koa trees was evaluated in two habitat types: mixed-species forest stands recovering naturally from long-term cattle grazing (forest) and stands planted in former pasture lands (reforestation). Resource managers will be better able to understand the impacts to koa and its recovery from koa moth outbreaks in high density reforestation stands compared to low-density, mixed-species forest stands.
