Kohala Mountain clermontia facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Kohala Mountain clermontia |
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|---|---|
| Conservation status | |
| Scientific classification | |
| Genus: |
Clermontia
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| Species: |
drepanomorpha
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Clermontia drepanomorpha is a very special and rare flowering plant. It belongs to the bellflower family. People often call it the Kohala Mountain clermontia. In Hawaii, it's also known as `oha wai. This plant is found only in one place: the Kohala volcano. Kohala is at the northern end of the island of Hawaii. Because it is so rare, the United States government lists it as an endangered species. This means it is in danger of disappearing forever.
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What is the Kohala Mountain Clermontia?
The Kohala Mountain clermontia is a type of plant called a Hawaiian lobelioid. These are unique plants found only in Hawaii. They are part of the Clermontia group. This plant grows in the wet forests on the slopes of the Kohala volcano.
Where Does This Plant Live?
This plant is endemic to the Kohala volcano. This means it naturally lives nowhere else in the world. It needs the specific wet forest environment found there. The plant thrives in the damp, misty conditions of the volcano's slopes.
Why is the Kohala Mountain Clermontia Endangered?
The Kohala Mountain clermontia is in serious trouble. There are fewer than 250 individual plants left. This small number makes it very vulnerable.
Threats to the Plant
Several things are putting this plant at risk:
- Animals: Wild animals like feral pigs, deer, and rats can harm the plants. They might eat them or disturb the soil where they grow.
- Invasive Plants: Other plants that are not native to Hawaii can take over. These invasive plants grow fast and push out native plants like the clermontia. They compete for sunlight, water, and space.
- People: Sometimes, human activities can also disturb the plant's habitat. This can include accidental damage or changes to the environment.
Protecting the Kohala Mountain Clermontia
Because it is an endangered species, efforts are being made to protect Clermontia drepanomorpha. Protecting its habitat is very important. This includes managing the populations of feral animals. It also means controlling invasive plant species. These actions help give the remaining plants a better chance to survive and grow.
