Here is an interesting article about two invasive species that are now used a food at some Hawaiian restaurants.
 |
Waiawi was introduced in 1824 by a horticulturist from Rio de Janeiro. The shallow-rooted, tightly-packed trees quickly invaded native forests to the point of takeover — covering 200,000 acres …
|
The two invasive species, kiawe (a type of mesquite), and waiawi (strawberry guava) are plentiful on many of the islands’ golf courses. One native plant in particular, taro, used for making poi, is under increasing threat from these invaders.
As a result of colonialism, more than 500 species, including hoofed animals, and mosquitos, have been introduced to the islands. Waiawi came from Brazil via a horticulturist back in 1824. They can take over a forest! Many are saying Hawaii is the invasive species capital of the world. After all, for 70 million years, it was relatively isolated.
I doubt we will be dining at restaurants that serve these two invaders. But you may see these as well as other invasive species on your island menus in the coming months and years.
golfkat Travel Blog 