Rapid ‘Ōhi’a Death
A new fungal pathogen known as Rapid ‘Ōhi’a Death was identified on Hawaii Island in 2014. The fungus attacks and can quickly kill ‘Ōhi’a trees, which are native to Hawaii and comprise approximately 80% of Hawaii’s native forests. Students at Maui Waena Intermediate School reported on how this new disease is threatening the biological function and cultural legacy of the Ōhi’a tree.
Produced by Maria Inong, Alexis Viloria, Logan Tsukiyama, Hannah Okamoto, Samantha Della, and Czerena Bayle at Maui Waena Intermediate School in Kahului, HI. Instruction provided by SRL Connected Educator Jennifer Suzuki.
Special thanks to the Hawaii National Park Service and the Maui Nui Nature Conservancy for the opportunity to explore the natural, cultural and educational resources being preserved for visitors from around the country and world by the park and its rangers.
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