2010 - Tropical Conservation Biology and Environmental Science

2
ND
ANNUAL
TCBES
SYMPOSIUM
Tropical Conservation Biology and Environmental Science
February 12, 2010
9:00 - 4:00pm
127 UCB
University of Hawaii at Hilo
2ND ANNUAL
TCBES SYMPOSIUM
TABLE OF CONTENTS
TCBES Overview . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1
Presentation Schedule . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2
Presentation Abstracts . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4
Poster Abstracts . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21
UH Hilo TCBES Faculty . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24
TCBES Affiliated Faculty . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25
TCBES Graduate Students . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26
2ND ANNUAL TCBES SYMPOSIUM
12 February 2010
9:00am – 4:00pm
127 UCB
Welcome to the second annual TCBES Symposium! The first symposium was a great success
with 20 presentations and posters. The three award winners were Jacqueline Gaudioso - first place
research presentation Lisa Adams – second place research presentation and Douglass Powless – best
poster presentation. We want to congratulate each of them and all the students presenting last year.
The second annual TCBES Symposium will again include papers reporting original research by graduate students in the TCBES Master of Science Program at the University of Hawai`i at Hilo. Graduate
students currently enrolled in, or recently graduated from, the program are invited to present their
research in oral or poster form. This year we are also including undergraduate student presentations.
The primary purpose of the Graduate Program in TCBES is to provide graduate training in conservation biology and environmental science to people with baccalaureate degrees and others currently
working in the field. The program draws on the extraordinary biological, physical and cultural complexity of Hawai`i Island as a focus of investigation. TCBES prepares students for technical positions
and for entry into Ph.D. programs in related fields. There have been more than 90 students enrolled in
the program since it began in 2004 with 54 students currently enrolled and 35 graduates to date. Recent
graduates are working in the fields of conservation and education as well as pursuing Ph.D. degrees.
TCBES unites more than 30 faculty at UH Hilo with more than 50 affiliated faculty from federal
and state agencies and other universities. Participating UH Hilo faculty reside in the Anthropology,
Biology, Chemistry, Geography, Geology, and Marine Science Departments of the College of Arts and
Sciences, and in the College of Agriculture, Forestry and Natural Resource Management. As a multidisciplinary, multi-college program, TCBES encourages and facilitates sustained collaboration across
the research areas of ecological and evolutionary genetics, ecosystems analyses and responses to environmental change, cyberinfrastructure for environmental research, and geospatial analyses. Faculty
and students engage in projects in environments that range from marine coastal habitats to tropical
rain forests, mesic and dry forests and shrublands, and rivers. At the core of the TCBES Program are the
dynamic research collaborations between faculty/students and federal and state agencies on Hawai`i
Island.
TCBES is supported by the College of Arts and Sciences and Natural Science Division at the UH
Hilo, the National Science Foundation (NSF) Experimental Program to Stimulate Competitive Research
(EPSCoR), the NSF GK-12 Partnership for Reform through Investigative Science and Math (PRISM),
the NSF Centers for Research Excellence in Science and Technology (CREST), and grants to TCBES
faculty.
TCBES Symposium Organizing Committee
Donald Price, Riley Bernard and Colin Phifer
Layout and original art by Brittini Kimura
1
PRESENTATION SCHEDULE
8:45 - REGISTRATION AND WELCOME
9:00 - KEYNOTE SPEAKER
MARINE SESSION
9:15 - John Burns
Skeletal Growth Anomalies Afflicting [ Montipora capitata ] Corals at Wai’ōpae Tide Pools
9:30 - S. Kehau Tom
‘Opihi [Cellana spp.] Densities at Kalaupapa National Historical Park
9:45 - Nakoa Goo
Marine Resources Index: Papahānaumokuākea Marine National Monument
10:00 - Tara Holitzki
Environmental Impacts of Invasive Fish in Hawaiian Stream Ecosystems
10:15 - Nancy Chaney
Connectivity Patterns of Two Hawaiian Marine Gastropods
10:30 - BREAK
TERRESTRIAL SESSION I
10:45 - Lori Tango
Effect of Rising Salinity on Egg and Larval Survival of the Orange-black Hawaiian Damselfly
11:00 - Nicholas DeBoer
Neutral Genetic Variation of [Metrosideros polymorpha] Along an Elevational Gradient
11:15 - Brett Rodomsky
Quantification of Lava Texture as Evidence for Substrate Control Over Plant
Colonization Patterns
11:30 - Christopher Todd
Prey Abundance and Seasonal Movements of the Hawaiian Hoary Bat
[Lasiurua cinereus semotus]
11:45 - Whitney Nekoba
Detection of the Susceptibility of Native Hawaiians to Type II Diabetes Mellitu
2
12:00 - LUNCH AND POSTER SESSION
Poster Presenters:
Erik Johnson & Ambyr Mokiao-Lee
Tracing Sewage-Derived Nutrients into a Coastal Zone in Kapoho, Hawai’i
Narrissa Spies
Quantification of Calcium Binding Proteins from Skeletal Growth Anomalies in [Montipora capitata]
Melissa Netze
Maternal Investment of Hawaiian Monk Seal [Monachus schauinslandi]
Inhabiting the Main Hawaiian Islands
TERRESTRIAL SESSION II
1:30 - David Benitez
A Biogeographical Comparison of Invasive Forest Weeds in Hawai’i
1:45 - Riley Bernard
Dietary Overlap: Possible Links Between an Invasive Frog and Endemic Bat on the Island of Hawai’i
2:00 - Cary Deringer
Breeding Phenology of Hawaiian Petrels [Pterodroma sandwichensis] and
Newell’s Shearwaters [Puffinus auricularis newelli] on Kaua’i, Hawai’i Using Ornithological Radar, Auditory and Visual Surveys
2:15 - Charles Warr
Dermal Toxicity of Aqueous Solutes on [E. coqui]
2:30 - Nicole DiManno
Reproductive Response of Ohi’a to Fertilization: Will the Production of Flowers and Seeds Increase?
2:45 - Samuel Brooks
The Effects of Non-native Riparian Vegetation on Hihiwai [Neritina granosa] Snail Ecology in Honolii
3:00 - RECEPTION
4:00 - AWARDS, PUPUS AND THANK-YOUS
3
A BIOGEOGRAPHICAL COMPARISON
OF INVASIVE FOREST WEEDS IN HAWAI‘I
David Benitez
Advisor: Dr. Rebecca Ostertag, Biology
Plant invasions are economically and ecologically costly. Research suggests a
species may differ physiologically and ecologically between invasive and native ranges and these differences may enhance invasiveness. I examined biogeographical growth and defense differences of three aggressive invaders in
Hawaiian forests: the tree strawberry guava (Psidium cattleianum), the shrub
Koster’s curse (Clidemia hirta) and the herb cane tibouchina (Tibouchina herbacea). In quarantine in Volcano, Hawai‘i, I tested the Evolution of Increased
Competitive Abilities (EICA) hypothesis postulating individuals from invasive
(Hawaiian) populations, and are faster growing than individuals from native
(South American) populations also less defended chemically and structurally.
Seeds of focal taxa were collected in native ranges (Brazil and Venezuela) and
introduced ranges (Hawai‘i) and grown in a common garden for 120-180 days.
Plant height, mass and relative growth rates were quantified for 30 paired populations. Key structural traits leaf hair density and specific leaf area were quantified and feeding trials with specialized insect pests are underway to compare
plant defenses. I found strong support of my first hypothesis; Hawaiian plants
grew significantly larger than South American individuals in the common garden, and Hawaiian plants were observed larger and more abundant during
field collections. Initial defensive data is mixed and feeding trials are contrary
to my second hypothesis; suggesting alternate explanations divergent from
leading invasive species theory. A better understanding these differences can
improve our theoretical knowledge of invasions and help develop more effective control strategies. Committee: Dr. Rebecca Ostertag, UHH Biology;
Dr. Elizabeth Stacy, UHH Biology;
Dr. Tracy Johnson, US Forest Service;
Dr. Jonathan Price, UHH Geography
4
DIETARY OVERLAP: POSSIBLE LINKS BETWEEN AN INVASIVE
FROG AND ENDEMIC BAT ON THE ISLAND OF HAWAI`I
Riley Bernard
Advisor: Dr. William Mautz, Biology
On the Island of Hawai`i, one of the most prominent vertebrate invasions is the
coquí frog, Eleutherodactylus coqui, which are extreme sit-and-wait predators
that have the potential to reduce arthropod populations due to their voracious
appetite. Aerial arthropods such as Coleoptera, Homoptera, Lepidoptera and
Isoptera, primary food sources of the Hawaiian hoary bat, have been found in
the stomach contents of coqui frogs in Hawai`i . Though not much is known
on the habitat and foraging behaviors of the Hawaiian hoary bat, the ecological
impacts of the invasive coquí frog may provide links between these two species. Due to the endangered status of Hawaiian hoary bats, it is necessary to
examine the potential for competion with the coquí frog. Goals of the proposed
study are to examine dietary overlap between the coqui frog and Hawaiian
hoary bat through stomach contents and fecal pellet analysis, while comparing bat abundance in locations of similar vegetation and elevation with highdensity coquí frog populations, to locations with low-density or no coquí frog
populations. The objective of this study is to determine if the presence of coquí
frogs in Hawai`i pose a threat to endemic species, specifically the Hawaiian
hoary bat, via overlap of food resources.
Committee: Dr. Patrick Hart, UHH Biology;
Dr. Frank Bonaccorso, Pacific Island Ecosystem Research Center,
Kilauea Field Station, US Geology Survey
5
THE EFFECTS OF NON-NATIVE
RIPARIAN VEGETATION ON HIHIWAI
(NERITINA GRANOSA) SNAIL ECOLOGY IN HONOLII
Samuel Brooks
Advisor: Dr. Pat Hart, Biology
Habitat for hihiwai (Neritina granosa), a freshwater snail endemic to the Hawaiian Islands, may be declining due to changes caused by shading by invasive,
non-native riparian vegetation. Once common throughout the Hawaiian Islands, hihiwai have diminished in numbers and are now found only in pristine
streams. Understanding the relationship between ecosystem alterations and
hihiwai distribution, abundance, and feeding behavior may aid in providing
information to maintain their populations. This study examines hihiwai distribution, densities, feeding, and the effects of light availability in shaping benthic algal assemblages which may affect hihiwai habitat in Hawaiian streams.
Results indicated that sun regions had greater densities of hihiwai when compared to shade. Based on chlorophyll-a pigment analysis, sun regions had
higher levels of algal bioma ss than shade regions. In Hihiwai feeding choice
trials, hihiwai preferred open sunny reaches of streams dominated by green
algae compared with shade algae.
Committee: Dr. Karla McDermid, UHH Marine Science;
Dr. Richard MacKenzie, US Forest Service
6
SKELETAL GROWTH ANOMALIES AFFLICTING
MONTIPORA CAPITATA CORALS AT AT WAI‘ŌPAE TIDE POOLS
John Burns
Advisor: Dr. Takabayashi, Marine Science
An abnormally high prevalence of coral diseases has plagued the Wai‘ōpae tide
pools on the southeast coast of Hawai`i Island. At this site corals of the genus
Montipora are most afflicted by reduced health states. Survey data over the last
three years has shown 14.9±0.75% of these corals to be suffering from detrimental health afflictions. This study investigated the skeletal growth anomalies (SGAs) impacting M. capitata because of their high prevalence and lack of
etiological data and definitive field diagnoses. Morphological assessment of
the skeletal microstructure using macro photography showed that these SGAs
can be classified into two distinct categories for M. capitata; Type A and Type B.
Type A growth anomalies have a significan t reduction in polyp (50% +/- S.E.)
and tuberculae density with many tuberculae fused and protrusive. Type B
growth anomalies have no discernable polyps as well as fused and protuberant coenosteum. M. capitata corals were surveyed exhaustively at this site and
the prevalence of Type A lesions was found to be 30.7% and Type B lesions to
be 9.1% among all the colonies observed. Logistic regression analysis showed
Type A prevalence is a significant predictor of the prevalence of Type B lesions which provides evidence of the potential pathogenesis of this disease.
Impacts of SGAs on the physiology of this coral are being investigated using
Pulse Amplitude Modulation Fluorometry. By coupling the prevalence data
with a physiological assessment we stand to accurately measure how this coral
population as a whole is impacted by this disease.
Committee: Dr. Marta DeMaintenon, UHH Marine Science;
Dr. Ruth Gates, Hawaii Institute of Marine Biology;
Dr. Drew Harvell, Cornell University
7
CONNECTIVITY PATTERNS OF TWO
HAWAIIAN MARINE GASTROPODS
Nancy Chaney
Advisor: Dr. Marta deMaintenon, Marine Science
Connectivity of benthic marine gastropods in Hawaii is poorly understood
due to the lack of extensive studies. To test if geographic distance is related to
genetic distance, I sampled two nonpelagic developers Mitrella fusiformis and
Peristernia chlorostoma across the main Hawaiian Islands and compared their
sequences using the mitochondrial COI gene. The resulting data support the
concept that some nonpelagic developers form distinct, localized populations
and that connectivity between populations may be very low. Understanding
these gastropods’ connectivity may provide important information regarding
other nonpelagic species and help to associate and utilize these patterns within
the context of marine conservation.
Committee: Dr. Cam Muir, UHH Biology;
Dr. Misaki Takabayashi, UHH Marine Science
8
NEUTRAL GENETIC VARIATION OF METROSIDEROS
POLYMORPHA ALONG AN ELEVATIONAL GRADIENT
Nicholas DeBoer
Advisor: Dr. Elizabeth Stacy, Biology
Population divergence along strong environmental gradients, if found, can
lead to incipient speciation. One species that shows strong morphological
divergence along environmental gradients is Metrosideros polymorpha (Myrtaceae, Gaud.). Pubescent populations (early-successional) in a common garden
show heritable variation in flowering time along an elevational gradient, but
glabrous populations (late-successional) do not. I examined neutral genetic
variation to allow for a clearer look into the role of flowering time on population divergence along the elevational gradient. Microsatellite markers were
used to estimate neutral genetic variation within and among 5 pubescent and
2 glabrous populations of M. polymorpha along an elevational gradient ranging
from 700-2500 m a.s.l. on east Hawai`i Island. Given the observed, heritable
differences in phenology and because distinct flowering times should limit allele exchange between populations, I expected that greater variation in allele
frequencies would be observed among populations of pubescent trees along
the elevation gradient than among populations of glabrous trees. Preliminary
analyses reveal little genetic structuring and high gene flow among populations. Further analysis underway include tests of isolation by distance, allele
frequency differences of glabrous and pubescent populations, and an analysis
of rare alleles found within populations. Results will yield insight into the early stages of reproductive isolation between populations and the roles of environmental pressures and geographic isolation on diversification within woody
species. Committee: Dr. Don Price, UHH Biology;
Dr. Susan Cordell, Institue of Pacific Islands Forestry, US Forest Service
9
BREEDING PHENOLOGY OF HAWAIIAN PETRELS
(PTERODROMA SANDWICHENSIS) AND NEWELL’S SHEARWATERS
(PUFFINUS AURICULARIS NEWELLI) ON KAUA`I, HAWAI`I, USING
ORNITHOLOGICAL RADAR, AUDITORY, AND VISUAL SURVEYS
Cary Deringer
Advisor: Dr. Donald Price, Biology
Recovery of the endangered Hawaiian petrel and threatened Newell’s shearwater relies upon effective management of known populations, which in turn
depend upon efforts to study and monitor these species. On Kaua`i, where
traditional and preferred methods of measuring productivity, such as direct
counts of breeding birds, is often impractical to employ, monitoring of both
species has relied upon proxy measures of movement rate using ornithological
radar and visual surveying. Interpreting results and making informed decisions about survey designs or implemented management actions is improved
with an understanding of how these proxy measures correspond with breeding
phenology. From March – December 2008, weekly ornithological radar (both
species), auditory surveys (Newell’s shearwaters) and visual surveys (Hawaiian petrels) were undertaken to monitor intra-annual variation in movement
and calling rates throughout an entire breeding season. Results were compared against current knowledge of breeding phenology. All three measures
showed correlation with major breeding tasks, including decreased activity
with pre-laying exodus and peak activity during chick-rearing and presence of
non-breeders. Ornithological radar data consistently showed the lowest coefficient of variation, suggesting this method would have the greatest statistical
strength as an annual monitoring tool, with incubation and guard surveys likely to yield reliable annual monitoring data. The combination of radar, auditory
and visual surveys provided most information when determining the timing
of breeding tasks for each species separately.
Committee: Dr. Pat Hart, UHH Biology;
Nick Holmes, Kaua`i Endangered Seabird Recovery Project
10
REPRODUCTIVE RESPONSE OF OHI’A TO FERTILIZATION:
WILL THE PRODUCTION OF FLOWERS AND SEEDS INCREASE?
Nicole DiManno
Advisor: Dr. Rebecca Ostertag, Biology
A common characteristic of tropical forests is that they tend to be nutrient limited relative to other terrestrial ecosystems. Nutrient limitation is an important
factor to consider when attempting management of these ecosystems, because
the species present have adapted to the infertile conditions and so any alteration to the supply of nutrients can severely change the present composition
of the forest. Hawaii’s island chain has been used as a model system to study
the response of tropical plants to fertilization, because a nutrient gradient exists due to the variable ages of the islands. Although numerous studies have
been conducted using the sites along Hawaii’s nutrient gradient, reproductive
response to nutrient additions has yet to be examined. The objective of my
study is to examine the reproductive response to fertilization of a dominant
native Hawaiian species, Metrosideros polymorpha, growing on nitrogen versus
phosphorus-limited soils. The study will consist of three experiments designed
to test the hypothesis that addition of the limiting nutrient increases the: (1)
production of reproductive structures, (2) nutrient concentration of reproductive structures, and (3) seedling fitness. Pilot data collection has shown an increased production of flowers and seeds when the limiting nutrient it added
yet the trend is not significant (p=0.445). As humans continue to alter the nutrient cycling of tropical forests it is important to understand how the ecosystem
as a whole is impacted. Obtaining knowledge pertaining to reproductive response has great value in determining the future of these forests.
Committee: Dr. Elizabeth Stacy, UHH Biology;
Dr. Patrick Hart, UHH Biology
11
MARINE RESOURCES INDEX:
PAPAHĀNAUMOKUĀKEA MARINE NATIONAL MONUMENT
Nakoa Goo
Advisor: Dr. Misaki Takabayashi, Marine Science
Marine resources in the Hawaiian archipelago are valuable for a variety of
stakeholder groups. Species of economic and cultural importance account for
the overwhelming majority of marine resource biomass removed from reefs
in the Main Hawaiian Islands (MHI). The selective removal of these species
in waters throughout the MHI has been responsible for declines in population size and abundance of these species. In contrast, the Northwest Hawaiian
Islands (NWHI) contain some of the last predator dominated reef ecosystems
in the world and their current protective status can provide insights into ecosystems functioning under minimal anthropogenic impact. Observations of
resource species assemblages provided the opportunity for comparisons of
abundance and biomass in protected and unprotected areas of the archipelago
in near shore environments. Reductions in population sizes of these species
may lead to negative impacts on reef ecosystem function and are important assessments which need to be made to inform management of these species and
prevent depletion of stocks due to over exploitation. 12
ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACTS OF INVASIVE
FISH IN HAWAIIAN STREAM ECOSYSTEM
Tara Holitzki
Advisor: Dr. Karla McDermid, Marine Science
Members of the Topminnow Family, including guppies, mollies, swordtails
and mosquitofish were first introduced into Hawaiian streams in the 1900’s
for mosquito control, and are well-established in several stream ecosystems. Poeciliids have been identified as one of the top 100 invasive species in the
world and as an invasive species of concern in Hawai‘i. Despite the prevalence of poeciliids in Hawaiian streams, few studies have examined their impacts on stream habitat or on native species. Poeciliids have been identified as
the source of parasites that now infest native gobies (‘o‘opu), causing disease
and reducing the overall fitness of native fish. Poeciliids are also thought to
compete with native species for food and habitat, as these insectivorous fish
also eat algae and small invertebrates that are important food sources for native ‘o‘opu and shrimp (‘opae). Direct impacts of poeciliids on native species
include feeding on native damselfly, ‘o‘opu, and ‘opae larvae. In this study,
ecological parameters were compared among stream reaches with and without
established populations of poeciliids along the Hamakua coast of the island of
Hawai‘i. These same parameters were compared among experimental stream
flumes with and without poeciliids to document stream ecosystem responses to
poeciliids under semi-controlled conditions. The ecological parameters measured include: 1) nutrient dynamics, 2) benthic algal production, 3) algal community structure, and 4) invertebrate community structure. Nitrate fluxes in
poeciliid-free streams averaged 421.91±220.4 μmol/s, and in poeciliid streams
the mean nitrate flux was 2289.23±959.8 μmol/s. The mean density of guppies was 13.53±2.69 individuals/m2, while the mean density of native species
was 1.75±0.43 individuals/m2 in the same streams. The results of this study
will provide new information on the effects that this invasive family of fish are
having on Hawaiian stream ecosystems, and will help resource managers in
making management decisions concerning these ecosystems.
Committee: Dr. Richard Mackenzie, US Forest Service;
Dr. Tracy Wiegner, UHH Marine Science
13
INVESTIGATING SURVIVAL,
MOVEMENT AND SPILL OVER OF JUVENILE
YELLOW TANG (ZEBRASOMA FLAVESCENS)
FROM A MARINE PROTECTED AREA IN WEST HAWAI‘I
Mark Manuel
Advisor: Dr. Jim Beets, Marine Science
Numerous juvenile yellow tang (Zebrasoma flavescens) are captured annually
in the state of Hawai‘i for the economically valuable aquarium trade. Through
the establishment of marine protected areas (MPAS) along the west coast of
Hawai‘i, this highly targeted species has increased in abundance within these
MPA boundaries. However, MPAs can only be valuable fisheries management
strategies if ‘spillover’, the movement of juveniles and adults to adjacent areas
that are not protected, or ‘seeding’ improves or sustains fisheries harvest. Using tagging techniques and visual surveys, we investigated the survival, movement, and ‘spillover’ of juvenile yellow tang along the northern boundary of
the Wawaloli MPA. Results demonstrated that survival is greatest within the
MPA and movement is minimal, which suggest high site fidelity of juvenile
yellow tang. These results can be beneficial for future management decisions
pertaining to yellow tang and the Hawai‘i aquarium trade industry.
Committee: Dr. William Walsh, Division of Aquatic Resources;
Dr. Jason Turner, UHH Marine Science
14
DETECTION OF THE SUSCEPTIBILITY OF
NATIVE HAWAIIANS TO TYPE 2 DIABETES MELLITU
Whitney Sayuri Nekoba
Advisor: Dr. Cam Muir, Biology
Hyper-efficient energy storage, in the form of fat, has been proposed as a
“thrifty phenotype” that benefited populations subject to feast/famine fluctuations of food availability. In the absence of famine, and with availability of
low cost high calorie food and disproportionate poverty, the thrifty phenotype
may lead to chronic obesity, which is associated with type 2 diabetes mellitus
(T2DM). Several populations that exhibit unusually high incidence of T2DM
may have the so-called “thrifty” adaptation. Evolution of such a quantitative
trait in isolated populations is the result of convergent evolution; similar phenotypes of energy storage efficiency arise from different co-adapted gene complexes. Convergence has led to the evolution of shared analogous traits and
molecular markers for these traits will be different in isolated populations. My
project will focus on screening putative markers, identified by Mark Stoneking
(Myles et al. 2007), for their association with T2DM susceptibility.
My thesis research is an association study to identify markers that indicate the
presence of a metabolic phenotype that may have been historically adaptive. Determination of the basis of type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) susceptibility is
a molecular approach through a screen of putative single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNP) markers for susceptibility.
Committee: Dr. Dan Brown, UHH Anthropology;
Dr. Manu Meyer, UHH Education
15
QUNATIFICATION OF LAVA TEXTURE AS EVIDENCE FOR
SUBSTRATE CONTROL OVER PLANT COLONIZATION PATTERNS
Brett Rodomsky
Advisor: Dr. James Juvik, Geography
The dynamic island of Hawai’i is an exceptional system for study of ecological succession. Here, volcanoes frequently extrude basaltic lava flows of ‘a’ā,
pāhoehoe and intergraded lava textures, differing in surface area and morphology. Nearly a century of observations, hypotheses, and data indicate pioneering plants differentially colonize contemporaneous lavas depending on texture
morphology. Variation in lava texture represents diversity of habitat available
to pioneering plants. Conclusions about plant colonization patterns on different textures remain confounded by existing interactions with climate variables
including moisture and temperature across hypsometric surface area. For this
study on the 1855-56 Mauna Loa flow, I hypothesize that lava texture measured
at local (100 m2) and micro- (1 m2) spatial scales interacts with climate variables
analogous to topography and climate interacting at landscape spatial scales. A
topographic roughness metric will be applied to vegetation plot data collected
at local and micro- spatial scales across lava roughness gradients. Hypsometric
point-intercept data will be converted into Digital Elevation Models with GIS
software. This methodology produces a quantified unit-less measure of ‘a’ā
and pāhoehoe lava texture based on hypsometric surface area. Lava roughness
will then be used as a predictor variable for plant colonization patterns. Variables such as slope, aspect, and flow accumulation will be derived from DEMs
and included in the lava texture model. Ultimately this study is an attempt to
create a quantified model of lava texture correlated to associated vegetation
data, in an attempt at increasing understanding of substrate texture control
over pioneering plant colonization patterns on Hawai’i. Committee: Dr. Rebecca Ostertag, UHH Biology;
Dr. Jonathan Price, UHH Geography
16
EFFECT OF RISING SALINITY ON EGG AND LARVAL
SURVIVAL OF THE ORANGE-BLACK HAWAIIAN DAMSELFLY
Lori Tango
Advisor: Dr. Jim Beets, Marine Science
Decreased ground-water flux associated with urbanization and climate change
have the potential to increase the salinity of anchialine pools at Hawaii’s Kaloko-Honokohau National Historical Park (KAHO). These unique tidal coastal
aquatic features posses an endemic invertebrate fauna including candidate endangered crustaceans and aquatic insects. To assess some of the effects of rising salinities on anchialine pool biota, we are quantifying the survival of egg
and early-instar larvae of the Orange-black Hawaiian damselfly (Megalagrion
xanthomelas). Preliminary results reveal an inverse relationship between egg
and early-instar survival and salinity, with this species possibly exhibiting a
threshold response to rising salinity at 20 ppt (approximately 60% seawater). Given the limited information on the effects of increased salinities on anchialine pool biota, this study will provide management implications and raise
awareness on the importance of these rare environments. Committee: Dr. David Foote, US Geological Survey
17
PREY ABUNDANCE AND SEASONAL MOVEMENTS OF THE
HAWAIIAN HOARY BAT (LASIURUS CINEREUS SEMOTUS)
Christopher Todd
Advisor: Dr. Pat Hart, Biology
The Hawaiian Hoary bat (Lasiurus cinereus semotus) is the only terrestrial mammal native to the Hawaiian Islands and currently is listed as an endangered
species due to apparent population declines, lack of knowledge concerning it
distribution, and habitat loss. Echolocation surveys indicated that Hawaiian
hoary bats display striking seasonal movements along the steep gradient of elevation across eastern Hawai`i Island. Changes in temperature and rainfall are
a likely cause for these migrations. However, the extent to which peaks in food
correspond with the bat’s migration has received little study. Here we present
preliminary data on insect phenology and abundance across an annual cycle
at five sites along a gradient of elevation. We link these insect data to echolocation surveys to gain insights on how availability of prey corresponds with seasonal migratory movements. We hypothesize that insect abundance will show
a positive correlation with bat vocalization activity. Data collected from early
April to August 2009 at two low elevation sites shows that as overall insect
abundance increase there is an increase in bat activity. Data collected at a mid
elevation site shows that in early April there is a spike in insect activity, primarily Lepidoptera, while bat occurrence is still relatively low. The following
survey in June shows an increase in bat occurrence and supports a hypothesis
previously predicted by T. Menard that bats migrate from high interior elevations to coastal lowlands to reproduce in summer months.
Committee: Dr. Don Price, UHH Biology;
Dr. Frank Bonaccorso, US Geological Survey
18
‘OPIHI (CELLANA SPP.) DENSITIES AT
KALAUPAPA NATIONAL HISTORICAL PARK
S. Kehau Tom
Advisor: Dr. Jim Beets, Marine Science
‘Opihi, or Hawaiian limpets (Cellana spp.), are one of the most prized species
harvested in Hawai‘i because of their cultural significance to Hawaiians as a
food resource and their high economic value. ‘Opihi are found in the rockyintertidal zones and have been harvested for many generations as found in
archaeological records. Hawaiians consider the ‘opihi the fish of death because
of their location in the high-wave intertidal zones, thus making harvesting life
threatening. There are three species of endemic ‘opihi found in the Hawaiian archipelago: Cellana exarata, C. sandwicensis, and C. talcosa. This study is
investigating ‘opihi size and densities in relationship to harvesting pressure at
Kalaupapa National Historical Park located on the north shore on the island of
Moloka‘i. Access to the fishery is limited and should result in low harvesting
pressure, because Kalaupapa is a remote peninsula physically isolated. The
‘opihi surveying methods utilizes the same protocol that the ‘Opihi Monitoring Program uses statewide and will be used to obtain data on ‘opihi population structure at eight sites at Kalaupapa. Anthropological qualitative research
methods will be used to address how harvesting pressure may be potentially
affecting ‘opihi size and densities within the national park.
Committee: Dr. Eric K. Brown, Kaluapapa National Historical Park;
Dr. Fiona McCormack, UHH Anthropolgy
19
DERMAL TOXICITY OF AQUEOUS SOLUTES ON E.COQUI
Charles Warr
Advisor: Dr. Bill Mautz, Biology
Eleuthrodactylus coqui is invasive in Hawai’i and has established populations
on Kaua’i, Oahu, Maui, and the Big Island, with densities ranging up to three
times those in native habitats. Efforts to control frog populations have focused
on chemical spraying of 16% Citric Acid or suspensions of 3% hydrated lime,
Ca(OH)2. These chemicals were chosen based on screening for mortality of a
variety of chemicals by the Hawai’i State Department of Agriculture, however,
the mechanism of toxicity with dermal application is not known. Many other
solutions with moderate pH are also effective, so pH alone must not be the
only toxic factor. The purpose of this research was determine whether osmotic
concentration, pH, or some other property is the primary factor in effectiveness. The skin of most frogs is moist, highly permeable to water, selectively
permeable to certain ions, contains ion pumps, and serves as an organ of respiration and water balance. 16% citric acid solutions act in tens of seconds, so it is
likely that the ultimate toxic agent passes into the blood stream and acts on the
central nervous system or heart. We used 6% citric acid for differential toxicity comparisons, and all solutions were standardized to be equimolar (.287M)
with 6% citric Acid. Na3citrate, NaCl, KCL, CaCl2, NaHCO3, KHCO3, as well
as a control (dH2O) were used. Frogs were exposed, on the dorsal surface, to
1mL of a test solution. Heart rate and righting response were measured at 2, 4,
8, 16, 32, and 64 minutes after application. At the point of incipient death (heart
rate <30bpm) or at 64 min, the frog was pithed and blood was collected to measure hematocrit and plasma osmolality. Citric acid was the most effective of all
solutions. It was the only solution to cause death at the concentration used in
the experiment. Citric acid also resulted in the depression of hematocrit and
plasma osmolality. Heart rate of frogs with citric acid declined progressively
to the mortality endpoint. Heart rate from CaCl2 treatment declined then recovered while other compounds did not produce a significant change in heart
rate or hematocrit.
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TRACING SEWAGE-DERIVED NUTRIENTS
INTO A COASTAL ZONE IN KAPOHO, HAWAI’I
Ambyr Mokiao-Lee & Erik Johnson
Advisor: Dr. Tracy Wiegner, Marine Science
Worldwide, sewage effluent is a major source of nutrients to coastal waters
causing eutrophication. According to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, cesspools are more widely used as a means of domestic sewage disposal
in Hawaii than any other state in the country, with 77% of Hawaii County’s
population being serviced by cesspools. One region on the southeast coast of
Hawaii County where there has been concern about sewage pollution since the
1970’s is Kapoho. The community of Kapoho is designated a critical wastewater disposal area and also contains a Marine Life Conservation District within
its boundaries. Previous work by Hawaii Department of Health documented
that flow of cesspool wastewaters into Kapoho Bay was rapid, ~20 minutes. It
is suspected that sewage-enriched groundwater is entering the coastal zone
and possibly contributing to human health hazards and ecological damage. The goal of the following study is to determine the source of nutrients into
the area and the potential effect on the organisms and habitat. This was accomplished by determining the sources of groundwater inputs and to date the
transport of groundwater to Kapoho tidepools have been mapped and seepage
areas have been identified. Additionally, preliminary water quality samples
have been collected from the region. Future work will entail determining the
source of nitrogen into these coastal waters and its utilization by primary producers examining stable nitrogen, oxygen, and boron stable isotopes signature
in sewage, groundwater, ocean water, and macroalgae. Information generated
from this study will aid managers in creating a water quality database and
thresholds for nutrients entering marine environments.
21
MATERNAL INVESTMENT OF THE
HAWAIIAN MONK SEAL (MONACHUS
SCHAUINSLANDI) INHABITING THE MAIN HAWAIIAN
Melissa Netze
Advisor: Dr. Jason Turner, Marine Science
Hawaiian monk seals (Monachus schauinslandi) are currently classified as
critically endangered, with fewer than 1100 individuals remaining. Though
managed as a single stock, there are six recognized subpopulations of Hawaiian monk seals located in the Northwest Hawaiian Islands (NWHI), and one
spread throughout the main Hawaiian Island chain (MHI). The population
of Hawaiian monk seals located in the NWHI is declining at an annual rate of
approximately 4.5%. In contrast, the MHI subpopulation is increasing, with a
conservative estimated growth rate of about 5.6%. In recent years, the growing
population size, positive body condition, and increased juvenile survival rate
of Hawaiian monk seals inhabiting the MHI has prompted scientists to take a
closer look at this subpopulation. The objective of this study is to investigate
the maternal investment of Hawaiian monk seals inhabiting the MHI using
four seasons of nursing behavioral data. Previous studies show the recovery
of a threatened or endangered species is strongly linked to offspring survival,
which is often positively correlated with maternal investment. Here, nursing
bout frequency and duration are compared by week to investigate trends and
patterns in nursing behaviors of MHI seals. This study also examines what
habitat is most utilized for nursing, and the frequency of which the nursing
bout is terminated by the mother. This study is the first of its kind, and provides managers a clear look at the nursing behaviors of Hawaiian monk seals
in the MHI, vital information for future conservation efforts of the species. 22
QUANTIFICATION OF CALCIUM
BINDING PROTEINS FROM SKELETAL
GROWTH ANOMALIES IN MONTIPORA CAPITATA
Narrissa Spies
Advisor: Dr. Misaki Takabayashi, Marine Science
Skeletal growth anomalies (SGA) are protrusions on the coral skeleton that have
been documented in oceans worldwide. There is an unusually high incidence
of SGA at the Wai’opae MLCD on Hawaii island. Very little is known about the
calcification process in healthy coral sleletons, and even less is known about
how SGA coral calcifies. Galaxin is a calcium-binding protein found in corals
that is involved in skeletogenesis and calcification. Calcyclin is a calcium-binding protein that is involved in several cellular processes and has been shown to
be up-regulated during tumor growth and formation. We will collect samples
from healthy and SGA Montipora capitata and use real-time PCR to look for expression of calcyclin and galaxin. This will tell us if expression of these proteins
is up-regulated in SGA coral. 23
UH HILO TCBES FACULTY
Dr. Donald Price - Biology, TCBES Chair
Dr. Jason Adolf - Marine Science
Dr. Jonathan Awaya - Biology
Dr. James Beets - Marine Science
Dr. Kathryn Besio - Geography
Dr. Daniel Brown - Anthropology
Dr. Leng Chee Chang- Pharmacy
Dr. Steven Lundblad - Geology
Dr. Donna Delparte – Geography
Dr. Marta deMaintenon - Marine Science
Dr. Walter Dudley - Marine Science
Dr. Patrick Hart – Biology
Dr. Maria Haws - CAFNRM
Dr. Don Hemmes - Biology
Dr. Kevin Hopkins - CAFNRM
Dr. Susan Jarvi - Pharmacy
Dr. James Juvik - Geography
Dr. Sonia Juvik - Geography
Dr. Ernest Kho - Chemistry
24
Dr. Yiqing Li – CAFNRM
Dr. Steven Lundblad - Geology
Dr. Bruce Mathews - CAFNRM
Dr. William J. Mautz - Biology
Dr. Karla McDermid - Marine Science
Dr. Fiona McCormack - Anthropology
Dr. J.P. Michaud - Chemistry
Dr. Jene Michaud - Geology
Dr. Peter Mills - Anthropology
Dr. Cam Muir - Biology
Dr. Rebecca Ostertag - Biology
Dr. Adam Pack - Psychology & Biology
Dr. Sun Park - Geography
Dr. Brian Perry - Biology
Dr. Jonathan Price - Geography
Dr. Mike Shintaku - CAFNRM
Dr. Elizabeth Stacy - Biology
Dr. Misaki Takabayashi - Marine Science
Dr. Jason Turner - Marine Science
Dr. Tracy Wiegner - Marine Science
AFFILIATED TCBES FACULTY
Atkinson, Carter Ph.D. - USGS BRD
Balazas, George, M.S. - UHM
Banko, Paul Ph.D. - USGS BRD
Basch, Lawrence, Ph.D. - NPS
Benevides, Francis, Ph.D. - FAA
Bonaccorso, Frank, Ph.D. - USGS
Bowen, Brian, Ph.D. - UHM
Brown, Eric, Ph.D. - Kalaupapa Nat’l Park
Chapman, Frank, Ph.D. - U. Florida
Cordell, Susan Ph.D. - USDA Forest Service
Denslow, Julie, Ph.D. - USDA Forest Service
Lapointe, Dennis Ph.D. - USGS-BRD
Denslow, Julie Ph.D. - USDA Forest Service
Farmer, Chris Ph.D. - USGS BRD
Flander, Linda, M.S. - Cape Kumukahi Foundation
Follett, Peter Ph.D. - USDA ARS
Foote, David, Ph.D. - USGS BRD
Gates, Ruth Ph.D. - UHM
Gerrish, Grant Ph.D. - UHH
Gilmartin, William, M.S. - Hawaii Wildlife Fund
Hara, Arnold Ph.D. - UHM
Helweg, David Ph.D. - USGS BRD
Hu, Darcy Ph.D. - US NPS
Hughes, Flint Ph.D. - USDA Forest Service
Holmes, Nick, Ph.D. - Kauai Endangered Sea Bird
Project
Itano, David M.S. - UH Manoa
Jacobi, James Ph.D. - USGS BRD
25
Johnson, Tracy Ph.D. - USDA Forest Service
Kaufman, Boone Ph.D. - USDA Forest Service
Kaufman, Les, Ph.D. - Boston U.
Keith, Lisa Ph.D. - USDA
Kubis, Stacy, M.S. - NOAA
LaPointe, Dennis, Dr. - USGS BRD
Lessios, Harilaos, Ph.D. - Smithsonian Tropical
Research Institute
Loh, Rhonda Ph.D. - NPS
Mackenzie, Fred, Ph.D. - UHM
Mackenzie, Richard Ph.D. - USDA Forest Service
Muehlstein, Lisa Ph.D. - UHH
Nishimoto, Robert Ph.D. - DLNR
Pitt, William Ph.D. - USDA NWR
Pratt, Thane Ph.D. - USGS BRD
Pyle, Richard Ph.D. - Bishop Museum
Reynolds, Michelle Ph.D. - USGS BRD
Robinson, Mike, Ph.D. - Hawaiian Home Lands
Schofield, David M.S. - NOAA
Severance, Craig, Ph.D. - UHH
Shively, David, Ph.D. - U. Montana
Smith, Robert, M.S. - US Fish & Wildlife
Steinber, Michael, Ph.D. - Louisiana State U.
Toonen, Robert, Ph.D. - UHM
Walsh, William Ph.D. - DLNR
Weeks, Debbie
Ziegerl-Chong, Sharon, M.S. - UHH
GRADUATE STUDENTS
FALL 2009
Student - Advisor
Classen, Stephen - Hopkins, K
Cornett, Christina - Hart, P.
DeBenedet, Robyn - McDermid, K.
Dendy, Julian - Li, Y.
Francisco, Kainana - Hart, P.
Hansen, Eric - Juvik, J.
Johnson, Erik - Wiegner, T.
Johnson, Melissa - Stacy, E.
Kovach, Tony - Ostertag, R.
Manton, Jessica - Muir. C
McFarland, Thomas - Jarvi, S.
Mokiao-Lee, Ambyr - Wiegner, T.
Morrison, Keenan - Stacy, E.
Moss, Andrea - Price, D.
Most, Rebecca - Beets, J.
Phifer, Colin - Stacy, E.
Spies, Narrissa - Takabayashi, M.
Uy, Karen - Price, D.
Woollven, Barbara Katie - McDermid, K.
2009
FALL 2008
Student - Advisor
Bernard, Riley - Mautz, W.
DiManno, Nicole - Ostertag, R.
Donmoyer, Kevin - Mautz, W.
Ehrhard, Seamus - Mautz, W.
Garriques, Daren - Haws, M.
Jones, Thomas - Hart, P.
Kropidlowski, Stefan - Hart, P.
Motomura, Sharon - Shintaku, M.
Nekoba, Whitney - Muir, C.
Rodomsky, Brett - Juvik, J.
Tagawa, Anya - Price, J.
Tom, Shauna Kehau - Beets, J.
Williams, David - Mathews, B.
2008
26
2007
FALL 2006
Student - Advisor
Adams, Lisa - Takabayashi, M.
Benitez, David - Ostertag, R.
Brooks, Samuel - Hart, P.
DeBoer, Nicholas - Stacy, E.
Gaudioso, Jacqueline - Hart, P.
Graham, Shannon - Turner, J.
Hsu, Bobby Huang-suo - Hart, P.
Kettl, Brian - McDermid, K.
Lamson, Megan - Severance, C.
Mead, Lucas - Wiegner, T.
Perry, Cheyenne - Ostertag, R.
Powless, Douglas - Stacy, E.
Sugishita, Junichi - Steinberg, M.
Timmers, Molly - deMaintenon, M.
Vaduvescu, Simona - Michaud, JP
FALL 2007
Student - Advisor
Atwood, Trisha - Wiegner, T.
Chaney, Nancy - deMaintenon, M
Deringer, Cary - Price, D.
Eldon, Jonathan - Price, D.
Fa’anunu, Kalisi - Severance, C.
Fredell, Andrew - Turner, J.
Judge, Seth - Hart, P.
Kaye, Springer - Stacy, E.
Manuel, Mark - Beets, J.
Netze, Melissa - Turner, J.
Tango, Lori - Beets, J.
Todd, Christopher - Hart, P.
Valdez, Kate’Lyn - Turner, J.
Walsh, Andrew - Hopkins, K.
2006
27