Scarab beetles of Hawaii & Guam

Scarabs from every corner of the globe are represented in Hawaii and Guam. These exotic beetles have been accidentally and purposefully introduced to the islands through anthropogenic activity. As a result, 93% of the 71 scarab and stag beetle fauna in Hawaii are non-native. The few native species, such as the stag beetles in the Kauai highlands, may be very rare or possibly extinct. Some of the exotic species have become serious pests, most notably the coconut rhinoceros beetle. Lack of proper identification of pest and beneficial species has led to the spread of some of these beetles to the U.S. mainland, where they may become potential pests.

One of the introduction pathways for exotic insects to Hawaii is through Guam. Not surprisingly, 93% of the 22 scarabs in Guam are also non-native. In an effort to reduce the spread of scarabs and their allies to Hawaii and possibly to the U.S. mainland, this poster contains the most commonly encountered and conspicuous species in both Hawaii and Guam. Additional information, a mobile and online identification key, and a link to share your observations of these insects can be found by visiting our website or scanning the code below.