The isolated and unique native ecosystems of the Hawaiian Islands have been in decline since human colonization began around 1,500 years ago. Massive losses of native fauna and flora, largely due to the direct and indirect effects of introduced species, have had detrimental effects, including the loss and/or replacement of entire communities by invasive species. The native communities of the Hawaiian Islands are now considered some of the most endangered systems anywhere in the world. In many cases, the future existence of native communities is dependent upon our ability to restore ecosystems through activities such as predator removal, invasive species control, and the reintroduction of native flora and fauna.

Some of Oahu’s offshore islets.  Here is a view of North and South Mokulua from Popoia (Flat Island).

There are no ants or other social insects native to the Hawaiian Islands. However, over 40 ant species have been introduced to the Islands.  Ant species such as Pheidole megacephala (Big-headed ant) and Solenopsis geminata (fire ant) are suspected of causing major disruptions within a variety of natural communities. Both species are suspected of altering arthropod and plant communities and also of preying on larger animals such as seabirds. However, careful experiments have not been conducted, thus the level of impact continues to be a topic for speculation.

Adult Wedge-tailed Shearwater on the Northern Mokulua (Moku Nui).

My doctoral research focuses on the impacts introduced predators have on native ecosystems. Working on four of Oahu’s offshore islets, I am studying the effects of the presence of nonnative ants, specifically Pheidole megacephala, Solenopsis geminata, and Paretrichina longicornis on native flora and fauna. I’m especially interested in how introduced ants impact seabird nesting success and plant and arthropod populations.

Weighing wedge-tailed Shearwater chicks on South Mokulua.

Oahu’s offshore islets offer an opportunity to use experimentation to increase understanding of how introduced ants affect native plants, arthropods and ultimately entire communities. Understanding how introduced ants impact native communities will allow managers to conduct ecological restoration in the most meaningful and cost-effective manner possible. The development of useful methods within the field of restoration ecology is critical for the future of native ecosystems. Without restoration, many systems will cease to exist.

Wedge-tailed Shearwater chick                                                                 North Mokulua (Moko Nui)