Dracaena fernaldii facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Dracaena fernaldii |
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The Dracaena fernaldii, also known as Pleomele fernaldii, is a special kind of flowering plant. It is found only on the island of Lānaʻi in Hawaiʻi. People often call it the Lanai hala pepe.
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What is the Lanai Hala Pepe?
The Lanai hala pepe is a unique plant that grows in the dry forests of Lānaʻi. It can be found at elevations between 490 and 670 meters (about 1,600 to 2,200 feet) above sea level. This plant is a very important part of Hawaiʻi's natural environment.
Why is the Lanai Hala Pepe Endangered?
Sadly, the Lanai hala pepe is an endangered species. This means there are very few of these plants left in the wild. Experts believe only about 400 to 1,000 plants are still alive today.
What Does "Endangered" Mean?
When a plant or animal is "endangered," it means it is at a very high risk of disappearing forever. The United States government has officially listed the Lanai hala pepe as an endangered species. This helps protect it.
What is Threatening the Lanai Hala Pepe?
The biggest threat to the Lanai hala pepe is habitat loss. This happens when the places where the plants naturally grow are destroyed or changed. For example, land might be cleared for buildings or farms.
Another big problem is that new plants are not growing well. Scientists call this "lack of recruitment." For the past 10 years, very few new Lanai hala pepe plants have been seen growing. The exact reasons why new plants are not sprouting or surviving are still a mystery to scientists.
Protecting the Lanai hala pepe is important. It helps keep the unique natural beauty and biodiversity of Hawaiʻi alive for future generations.
