Mauna Loa
Mauna Loa, located in Hawaii, is one of the most significant landmarks of the Pacific region. As one of the five volcanoes that form the Island of Hawaii, it is considered the largest subaerial volcano in both mass and volume, encompassing an estimated area of 5,271 square kilometers. Mauna Loa’s name, which translates to “Long Mountain” in Hawaiian, aptly describes its elongated shape. It stretches over 120 kilometers from the southern tip of the island to the northern coastline, making it an imposing figure on the Hawaiian landscape.
Unbeknownst to many, Mauna Loa is not only a prominent feature of Hawaii’s topography but it is also an active volcano. It has erupted 33 times since its first well-documented eruption in 1843. Its most recent eruption occurred in 1984, posing significant risks and challenges to the local communities and the environment. However, these eruptions also contribute to Hawaii’s rich and fertile soils which support a diverse range of flora and fauna.
Mauna Loa is also known for the Mauna Loa Observatory (MLO), a premier atmospheric research facility that has been continuously monitoring and collecting data related to atmospheric change since the 1950’s. The observatory’s location on the slopes of Mauna Loa enables it to provide valuable data on global air quality and atmospheric conditions.
Mauna Loa is an essential part of Hawaii’s natural and scientific landscapes. Its vast size, active volcanic activity, and the critical climate research conducted on its slopes make it a unique and important feature of Hawaii. Despite its potential dangers, Mauna Loa continues to be a source of awe and fascination, contributing significantly to our understanding of geology and climatology.
Fast Facts
Country: United States
State/Province: Hawaii
Mountain Range: Hawaiian–Emperor seamount chain
Parents: Hawaiian Islands
Elevation: 13,679 feet / 4,169 meters
Prominence: 7,079 feet / 2,158 meters
Isolation: 25.25 miles / 40.63 kilometers
Nearest Higher Neighbor (NHN): Mauna Kea
Fun Fact: Part of Hawaii’s city of Hilo was build on Mauna Loa’s lava flows from the 19th century.
Plant Life: Common plants on Mauna Loa include lantana and koa haole in lower elevations below 3,000 feet; koa, mamane, pukiawe, aalii, nalo, ohelo, and hue pueo grass in the mid-range elevation slopes; and scattered mosses, silversword, and Hawaiian bent grass in the highest elevations in the Alpine stone desert above 10,000 feet.
Animal Life: Pigs, cats, mongooses, and goats are all common on the Hawaiian islands. Other animals found on the island include carnivorous caterpillars and the happy face spider, which has a smiley face shaped pattern on its abdomen.
Bird Life: Kalij Pheasants are some of the most prevalent birds on the Hawaiian islands. Some endemic birds found exclusively on the Hawaiian islands include the Apapane, ‘Amakihi, ‘I‘iwi, ‘Elepaio, ‘Ōma‘o, Nēnē, and ‘Io. The Kōlea (Pacific Golden-Plover) is an indigenous bird that can be found In Hawaii. Birds that have been introduced to the Hawaiian islands include Erckel’s Francolin, the California Quail, Barn Owl, Northern Cardinal, Yellow-billed Cardinal, Red-billed Leiothrix, Hwamei, Zebra Dove, Spotted Dove, Common Myna, Japanese Bush-Warbler, Saffron Finch, Yellow-fronted Canary, Japanese White-eye, House Sparrow, House Finch, and Scaly-breated Munia.
Flora and Fauna
Mauna Loa, one of the active volcanoes in Hawaii, hosts a unique and diverse array of flora and fauna. This volcano is not just a symbol of Hawaii’s vibrant geological activity, but also a reflection of its rich biodiversity. The environment around Mauna Loa is a blend of various ecosystems, each hosting its unique set of organisms.
The flora around Mauna Loa is characterized by a variety of plant species that have adapted to the volcanic soil. The ‘Ohi’a lehua tree, with its bright red flowers, is one of the most common trees in the area. This native Hawaiian tree thrives in the nutrient-rich volcanic soil and plays a crucial role in the ecosystem by providing food and shelter to various bird species. Another notable plant species is the silversword, found only in Hawaii, which can survive the harsh conditions at high altitudes.
The fauna at Mauna Loa is equally diverse and unique. The area is home to several endemic species of birds such as the Hawaii Amakihi and the Apapane. These birds rely heavily on the ‘Ohi’a lehua tree for food, demonstrating the interconnectedness of the ecosystem. The Mauna Loa region also hosts several insect species, including various types of unique beetles and spiders.
However, the biodiversity around Mauna Loa is under threat due to invasive species and climate change. Introduced species like mosquitoes are posing a significant threat to native bird populations by spreading diseases. Climate change is also causing shifts in habitats, affecting both the flora and fauna of Mauna Loa.
Mauna Loa in Hawaii is more than just an active volcano; it’s a vibrant ecosystem filled with unique flora and fauna. Efforts to preserve this biodiversity are crucial to maintaining the balance of this ecosystem and ensuring the survival of its endemic species.
Trails
Mauna Loa, the world’s largest active volcano, towers over the Big Island of Hawaii and features some of the most exhilarating and breathtaking trails one could hope to explore. These trails offer an incredible panorama of the Hawaiian landscape, ranging from the lush tropical rainforests at lower elevations to the barren, lunar-like landscapes near the volcano’s summit.
One of the most popular trails near Mauna Loa is the Mauna Loa Observatory Trail. This 11.6-mile trail ascends to the volcano’s summit offering hikers a challenging yet rewarding experience. Another trail worth mentioning is the 13.1-mile Mauna Loa Strip Road which provides stunning views of the Kilauea Volcano, and the Pacific Ocean. Hikers can also explore the Ainapo Trail, a historical path that was once used by ancient Hawaiians for religious purposes. This trail starts from the rainforest and ascends through various climate zones to reach the summit.
If you’re looking for a less strenuous option, consider the Kipuka Puaulu or Bird Park Trail. This 1.2-mile loop trail offers a tranquil walk through a native Hawaiian forest, known as kipuka, that’s home to a variety of bird species.
The trails near Mauna Loa in Hawaii also offer unique opportunities for overnight backpacking trips. The Mauna Loa Wilderness Area has two primitive cabins available for overnight stays along the Mauna Loa Summit Trail. But remember, hiking at such high altitudes is not without risk and requires proper preparation.
Whether you’re an experienced hiker seeking a challenging adventure or a nature enthusiast looking for a leisurely stroll through a serene Hawaiian forest, you’ll find that the trails near Mauna Loa offer something for everyone. These trails not only give you a chance to witness the raw beauty of Hawaii but also provide a unique perspective on the island’s rich volcanic history.
Sources
- Wikipedia: Mauna Loa
- USGS: Mauna Loa
- Hawaii Center for Volcanology: Mauna Loa
- NPS: Hawaiʻi Volcanoes, Animals
- NPS: Birds Observed along Mauna Loa Road
