Kalalau Valley remya facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Kalalau Valley remya |
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| Conservation status | |
| Scientific classification | |
| Kingdom: | |
| (unranked): | |
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| Tribe: |
Astereae
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| Genus: |
Remya
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| Species: |
R. montgomeryi
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| Binomial name | |
| Remya montgomeryi W.L.Wagner & D.R.Herbst
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Remya montgomeryi is a very rare flowering plant. It belongs to the aster family, which includes daisies and sunflowers. People often call it the Kalalau Valley remya. This special plant grows only in Hawaii, specifically on the island of Kauai. Sadly, its home is shrinking, and it is a federally endangered species in the United States. This means it is protected by law because it is at high risk of disappearing forever.
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What is Remya montgomeryi?
This plant is a shrub that can grow up to one meter (about 3 feet) tall. It has open clusters of flower heads. Remya montgomeryi is one of only three types of Remya plants. All Remya plants are found only in Hawaii. This particular plant and one other Remya species live only on the island of Kauai. Scientists first found this plant in 1985. They officially described it in 1987. By 2003, there were only about 143 of these plants left. They were found in six small groups.
Why is Remya montgomeryi Endangered?
The main reason this plant is in danger is because its natural home is being destroyed. This destruction comes from several sources.
Animal Threats
Some animals that were brought to Hawaii cause problems. These include feral pigs, feral goats, and deer. These animals are called ungulates because they have hooves. They eat the plants and damage the ground. This makes it hard for Remya montgomeryi to grow and survive.
Invasive Plant Threats
Other plants that are not native to Hawaii are also a big problem. These are called invasive plant species. They grow very fast and take over the space and resources that Remya montgomeryi needs. Some of these harmful plants include:
- Downy wood fern
- Velvet grass
- Airplant
- Daisy fleabane
- Blackberry
- Lantana
- Banana poka
- Honeysuckle
- Yellow foxtail
- Vasey grass
These invasive plants make it very difficult for the rare Remya montgomeryi to thrive in its home.
