Alpine flatsedge facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Alpine flatsedge |
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|---|---|
| Conservation status | |
| Scientific classification | |
| Genus: |
Cyperus
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| Species: |
fauriei
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| Synonyms | |
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Mariscus fauriei Kük. |
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The Cyperus fauriei is a very special plant. It is a type of sedge, which is a grass-like plant. Most people call it the alpine flatsedge.
This plant is found only in Hawaii. It grows on the islands of Molokai and Hawaii. Because it is so rare, the United States government protects it. It is listed as an endangered species. This means it is in danger of disappearing forever.
What Does It Look Like?
The alpine flatsedge grows between 10 and 50 centimeters tall. That's about 4 to 20 inches. It can have one stem or many stems growing together.
Its flowers grow in a cluster. This cluster has three to five special leaves called bracts at its base. The lowest bract can be up to 20 centimeters long. Each flower cluster has small spikes. These spikes are made of even smaller parts called spikelets. Each spikelet is flat and holds seven to nine tiny flowers.
Where Does It Live?
Today, you can find the alpine flatsedge on Molokai and the island of Hawaii. Sadly, it used to grow on the island of Lanai, but it is no longer found there. This is called being "extirpated."
On the island of Hawaii, this plant is quite rare. But on parts of Molokai, it is more common. Thousands of these plants grow there. The alpine flatsedge likes to grow on ridges and in deep valleys called gulches.
Why Is It Endangered?
The alpine flatsedge faces many dangers. Its home, or habitat, is being lost and damaged. This is happening for several reasons:
- Introduced animals: Animals like goats or pigs that were brought to Hawaii from other places eat the plants and damage the land.
- Introduced plants: Plants from other places can grow quickly and take over the areas where the flatsedge lives.
- Farming: Land used for farms can destroy the plant's natural habitat.
- Fires: Wildfires can burn and destroy the plants.
- Development: Building new homes or roads also takes away the plant's living space.
Protecting the alpine flatsedge means protecting its habitat. This helps keep this unique Hawaiian plant safe for the future.
