Kauai delissea facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Kauai delissea |
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| Conservation status | |
| Scientific classification | |
| Genus: |
Delissea
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| Species: |
rhytidosperma
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The Kauai delissea (scientific name: Delissea rhytidosperma) is a very rare flowering plant. People also call it the Kauai leechleaf delissea or just leechleaf delissea. This special plant belongs to the bellflower family. It grows only in Hawaii, specifically on the island of Kauai. This means it is an endemic species, found nowhere else in the world!
Sadly, the Kauai delissea is in big trouble. It is either critically endangered or possibly even extinct in the wild. This means there are very few left, or perhaps none at all, growing naturally in the wild. Some plants that used to be called Delissea rhytidosperma are now known as Delissea kauaiensis. The US government lists this plant as an endangered species, meaning it needs special protection to survive.
What Does the Kauai Delissea Look Like?
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The Kauai delissea is a type of Hawaiian lobelioid. It grows as a shrub and can reach about 2.5 metres (8.2 ft) (or 8 feet) tall. Its leaves are shaped like a spear or are almost oval. They can grow up to 19 centimeters (about 7.5 inches) long.
The plant produces tubular flowers. These flowers have petals that can be greenish or purplish. They also have special hairs near the anthers, which are parts of the flower that produce pollen.
Where Does the Kauai Delissea Live?
This plant's natural home is on rocky cliffsides. It prefers moist forests where Acacia koa trees are common. This type of habitat is very special and important for the Kauai delissea.
Why Is It in Danger?
The places where the Kauai delissea lives have been harmed. This damage is caused by several things:
- Animals: Wild feral pigs, goats, and mule deer can destroy the plant's habitat. They might eat the plants or damage the soil.
- New Plants: Exotic plant species (plants brought from other places) can take over the habitat. They compete with the Kauai delissea for space, sunlight, and water.
- Other Pests: Non-native rodents, snails, and grasses also make it hard for new Kauai delissea plants to grow. They might eat seeds or young plants.
All these problems make it very difficult for the Kauai delissea to survive and grow in the wild.
