Euphorbia halemanui facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Euphorbia halemanui |
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|---|---|
| Conservation status | |
| Scientific classification | |
| Genus: |
Euphorbia
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| Species: |
halemanui
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| Synonyms | |
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Chamaesyce halemanui |
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Euphorbia halemanui, also known as the Kauai sandmat, is a very rare flowering plant. It belongs to the euphorb family. This special plant is found only on the island of Kauaʻi in Hawaii. There are fewer than 400 of these plants left in the world. Because it is so rare, it is listed as an endangered species by the government.
About the Kauai Sandmat
This plant is a type of shrub. It has stems that can vine and climb. If you break a stem, it will bleed a milky sap. The plant produces flowers in a special cluster called a cyathium. Sometimes it's a single one, or many can grow together. Like some other Hawaiian plants in its family, it uses a special way to make food called C4 carbon fixation. This helps it grow well in warm, sunny places.
Where the Kauai Sandmat Lives
The Kauai sandmat grows in moist forests on the slopes of Kauaʻi. These forests are often filled with tall koa trees (Acacia koa). You might also see ʻōhiʻa lehua trees (Metrosideros polymorpha). In other areas, the Kauai sandmat grows next to other native Hawaiian plants. These include kauila (Alphitonia ponderosa) and hame (Antidesma platyphyllum). You might also find ʻaʻaliʻi (Dodonaea viscosa) and Kauai kokiʻo (Kokia kauaiensis).
Why This Plant is Endangered
The Kauai sandmat is an endangered species. This means it is at high risk of disappearing forever. There are only four known groups of these plants left. Protecting their forest homes is very important. Scientists and conservationists work hard to keep these rare plants safe. They want to make sure the Kauai sandmat can continue to grow in Hawaii.
