Diamond Head schiedea facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Diamond Head schiedea |
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| Conservation status | |
| Scientific classification | |
| Genus: |
Schiedea
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| Species: |
adamantis
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The Schiedea adamantis, also known as the Diamond Head schiedea, is a special kind of flowering plant. It belongs to the plant family Caryophyllaceae, which includes many types of flowers. This plant is endemic to the island of Oʻahu in Hawaii. This means it naturally grows only in this specific place and nowhere else in the world!
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What is the Diamond Head Schiedea?
The Diamond Head schiedea is a unique plant that grows in the wild. It was first officially described in 1970 by a scientist named Harold St. John. Like all plants, it plays an important role in its environment.
Where Does This Plant Live?
This rare plant lives on the beautiful island of Oʻahu in Hawaii. Specifically, it can be found on the steep slopes of the famous Diamond Head Crater. This area is known for its amazing views and special plants.
Life in Diamond Head Crater
The Diamond Head schiedea grows in what scientists call "low shrublands." These are areas with small bushes and plants, often found on hillsides. The plant likes to grow on the northwest rim of the crater, where the slopes are quite steep. Other plants that live near the Diamond Head schiedea include:
- Nehe (Lipochaeta lobata var. lobata)
- Kāwelu (Eragrostis variabilis)
- ʻAkoko (Euphorbia degeneri)
- ʻIlima (Sida fallax)
These plants all share the same special habitat.
Why is it So Rare?
Sadly, the Diamond Head schiedea is a very rare plant. There are only about 30 individual plants left in the world! This makes it a critically endangered species. This means it is at a very high risk of disappearing forever.
What is Habitat Loss?
The main reason the Diamond Head schiedea is in danger is something called habitat loss. A plant's habitat is its natural home, where it finds everything it needs to grow and survive. When this habitat is destroyed or changed, the plants lose their home. For the Diamond Head schiedea, changes to its special home on Diamond Head Crater are a big threat. This can happen because of things like new buildings, fires, or even other plants taking over its space. Protecting its habitat is very important to help this unique Hawaiian plant survive.
