Koolau Range melicope facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Koolau Range melicope |
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|---|---|
| Conservation status | |
| Scientific classification | |
| Genus: |
Melicope
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| Species: |
lydgatei
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The Melicope lydgatei is a special kind of flowering plant. It belongs to the citrus family, just like oranges and lemons! People also call it the Koolau Range melicope or Lydgate's pelea. In Hawaii, where it grows, it's known as alani.
This plant is very rare. It is only found in Hawaii, specifically in the Koolau Range on the island of Oahu. Because it's so rare and in danger of disappearing, the United States government protects it as an endangered species.
Contents
What is the Koolau Range Melicope?
The Koolau Range melicope is a type of shrub. This means it's a woody plant, but smaller than a tree. It likes to grow in wet mountain forests. Imagine a place where it rains a lot and the air is humid – that's where this plant thrives!
Where Does it Live?
This unique plant is only found on the island of Oahu in Hawaii. It lives specifically in the Koʻolau Range, which is a mountain range. By the year 2003, scientists found only 18 groups, or "populations," of these plants left in the wild. This shows how truly rare they are.
Why is it Endangered?
The Melicope lydgatei is in danger because its home is shrinking and getting damaged. This is mainly due to two big problems:
Threats from Animals
One of the biggest threats comes from feral pigs. These are pigs that used to be farm animals but now live in the wild. They can dig up and damage the plants and their habitat.
Threats from Other Plants
Another problem is competition from introduced species of plants. These are plants that were brought to Hawaii from other places and now grow wild. One example is a plant called Koster's curse (Clidemia hirta). These new plants can grow very fast and take over the space and resources that the native alani plant needs to survive. They essentially "outcompete" the native plants.
Protecting the Alani Plant
Because the alani plant is so rare and important to Hawaii's natural environment, efforts are being made to protect it. Protecting its habitat and controlling invasive species like feral pigs and Koster's curse are important steps to help this special plant survive for future generations.
