100 Words: Rapid ʻŌhiʻa Death

Invasive species have changed Hawaiʻi’s ecology. A new disease caused by a fungus
(Ceratocystis), also known as Rapid ʻŌhiʻa Death (ROD), has killed many native ʻōhiʻa trees. There is currently no known cure. Therefore, it is important that the spread of ROD be contained. There are preventative measures in place to reduce the spread of the disease, such as cleaning vehicles and clothing before and after use, leaving infected wood in place and avoiding injuring trees. In order for these measures to be effective, people need to be made aware of the disease and its impact on the ʻōhiʻa forests.