Dune tetramolopium facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Dune tetramolopium |
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| Conservation status | |
| Scientific classification | |
| Kingdom: | |
| (unranked): | |
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| Order: | |
| Family: | |
| Subfamily: |
Asteroideae
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| Tribe: |
Astereae
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| Genus: |
Tetramolopium
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| Species: |
T. rockii
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| Binomial name | |
| Tetramolopium rockii Sherff
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Tetramolopium rockii is a very rare flowering plant. It belongs to the aster family, which includes daisies and sunflowers. People often call it the dune tetramolopium because it grows on sand dunes. This special plant is found only in Hawaii, specifically on the island of Molokai.
About the Dune Tetramolopium
The dune tetramolopium is a small shrub. It grows low to the ground, forming a mat. This plant usually reaches a height of only about 10 centimeters (about 4 inches). Its flowers are grouped together in a single flower head, which looks like one large flower.
Where It Lives
This plant loves to grow in shrubland areas. These are places with many shrubs and bushes. You can find Tetramolopium rockii specifically on sand dunes. It lives along a small part of the Molokai coastline. This special area is only about six kilometers (less than 4 miles) long.
Why It's in Danger
Tetramolopium rockii is a very rare plant. It is considered a threatened species by the United States government. This means it is at risk of disappearing forever.
Its home, or habitat, is being damaged. This damage is caused by several things:
- Animals: Deer and cattle can eat the plants or trample them.
- Other Plants: Some plants that are not native to Hawaii have been brought there. These "introduced species" can grow quickly and take over the space and resources that Tetramolopium rockii needs.
- Vehicles: Off-road vehicles can drive over the dunes. This can crush the plants and destroy their sandy home.
Because of these threats, scientists and conservationists are working to protect this unique Hawaiian plant.
