Hillside clermontia facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Hillside clermontia |
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|---|---|
| Conservation status | |
| Scientific classification | |
| Genus: |
Clermontia
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| Species: |
lindseyana
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Clermontia lindseyana is a very rare flowering plant. It belongs to the bellflower family. People often call it the hillside clermontia. It is also known by its Hawaiian name, `oha wai. This plant is a special type of Hawaiian lobelioid.
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About the Hillside Clermontia
Where Does the Hillside Clermontia Live?
This amazing plant grows only in Hawaii. You can find it on three big volcanoes: Haleakalā on the island of Maui, and Mauna Loa and Mauna Kea on the island of Hawaii. It likes to grow on the sides of these volcanoes.
Why Is the Hillside Clermontia Rare?
The hillside clermontia is a federally endangered species in the United States. This means it is in danger of disappearing forever. There are only about ten groups of these plants left in the wild. Scientists think there are fewer than 1,000 individual plants remaining.
What Threats Does It Face?
Many things make it hard for the hillside clermontia to survive.
- Animals: Wild animals like goats and pigs can disturb the plants. They might eat them or trample them. Rats can also cause problems for the plants.
- Losing Homes: Forests where these plants live are sometimes cut down. This means the plants lose their natural homes.
- Invaders: Other plants that are not native to Hawaii can spread quickly. These "invasive species" take over the space and resources that Clermontia lindseyana needs to grow.
Scientists and conservation groups are working to protect this special Hawaiian plant. They hope to help it survive for future generations.
