What necessity has made military lands like Marine Corps Base Hawaii (MCBH) important refugia for native Hylaeus bees on Oahu?

Answer

They protect large tracts of native forest less impacted by development

Modern conservation challenges often require utilizing lands designated for purposes other than direct ecological protection. In Oahu, military installations such as Marine Corps Base Hawaii (MCBH) have become unexpectedly crucial sanctuaries for native *Hylaeus* populations. These areas often contain substantial acreage of native forest and shrubland habitats that have remained relatively untouched compared to surrounding civilian lands subjected to extensive development. The persistence of suitable habitat on these lands, even if incidentally protected, is vital for the survival of these insects, making habitat management on these tracts a focal point for conservationists.

What necessity has made military lands like Marine Corps Base Hawaii (MCBH) important refugia for native Hylaeus bees on Oahu?
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