Invasive species management restores a plant-pollinator mutualism in Hawaii

Author:

Hanna, Cause, Foote, David, Kremen, Claire

Title:

Invasive species management restores a plant-pollinator mutualism in Hawaii

Periodical:

Journal of Applied Ecology

Year:

2013

Volume:

50

Pages:

147-155

Subject:

Wasps Vespula pensylvanica Western yellowjacket Ohia-lehua Metrosideros polymorpha Pollination

Summary:

The authors examined the response of plant-pollinator mutualisms and the fruit production of an important endemic Hawaiian tree species, Metrosideros polymorpha, as a result of the reduced populations of an invasive species, Vespula pensylvanica. The reduction of V. pensylvanica resulted in a significant increase in the visitation rates of effective bee pollinators such as introduced Apis mellifera and native Hylaeus spp. The fruit production was increased although the main pollinators were no longer native but introduced. This study demonstrates the positive impacts of incorporating ecological function and context into invasive species management.

Label:

Insects - Bees, Wasps

URL:

http://pubs.er.usgs.gov/publication/70111754

Date:

2013

Collection:

Periodicals