PALAU — A peculiar phenomenon is occurring in the forests of Palau, particularly in the states of Aimeliik, Airai, Ngchesar, and Ngaptang. Hundreds of uduiud trees, also known as malinkara udoido, have been turning gray, shedding leaves, and dying over the past three years, according to a report from Palau’s Division of Forest, Land, and Water Management (DFLWM).
Once lush green forests are now marked by patches of gray among the healthy trees. These uduiud trees are endemic to Palau, meaning they are found only in this region.
The uduiud tree is crucial to the ecosystem, providing food for animals like fruit bats and fruit doves, which feed on its flower nectar. Traditionally, its strong and rot-resistant wood has been valued for construction. The tree also holds cultural significance in Aimeliik State, especially in the hamlet of Imul. According to local legend, a divine conflict between the gods of Aimeliik and Airai led to the proliferation of uduiud trees in Aimeliik.
The suspected culprit behind the tree deaths is the non-native ascomycete fungus (Ceratocystis manginecans), which originates from Brazil and has spread across Southeast Asia. Ongoing experiments aim to confirm this, but similar cases in other countries suggest the same fungus is responsible.
Experts believe the fungus likely arrived in Palau via live plant material, such as cuttings, corms, or ornamental plants. “The most likely path into Palau is live plant material brought from an Asian country,” said Jason Johnson, Plant Pathologist and Forest Health Specialist in the Republic of Palau. Despite the widespread die-off, experts do not believe the uduiud tree will become extinct. Fewer trees are dying now compared to 2023, though the reason for this decrease remains unclear.
The Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries, and Environment (MAFE) has enlisted additional experts to address the problem. Two scientists from the U.S. Forest Service in Hawaii, Dr. Marc Hughes and Dr. Kylle Roy, bring experience with Rapid Ohia Death, caused by a related fungus.
To prevent further infection, authorities urge residents to report any unusual tree deaths, avoid moving dead uduiud firewood to other areas, and clean and sterilize tools used for cutting uduiud.