Oahu lobelia facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Oahu lobelia |
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|---|---|
| Conservation status | |
| Scientific classification | |
| Genus: |
Lobelia
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| Species: |
oahuensis
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The Lobelia oahuensis is a very rare flowering plant. People also call it the Oahu lobelia. It belongs to the bellflower family. This special plant grows only on the island of Oahu in Hawaii. When a plant or animal lives only in one place, it is called endemic.
Sadly, there are not many Oahu lobelia plants left. About 100 of them grow in the Koʻolau Range mountains. Only one plant is known to be in the Waianae Range. Because it is so rare, the United States government has listed it as an endangered species. This means it is at high risk of disappearing forever.
Contents
What is the Oahu Lobelia?
The Oahu lobelia is a unique plant that stands out. It is part of the large Lobelia group, which includes many beautiful flowering plants. This specific type of lobelia is known for its tall, striking flowers.
How Tall Does It Grow?
The main flower stalk of the Oahu lobelia can grow very tall. It often reaches over a meter (more than 3 feet) in length! Imagine a flower stalk taller than many kids. This long stalk is covered with many blue flowers packed closely together.
Where Does the Oahu Lobelia Live?
This plant has a very specific home. It likes to grow high up in the mountains of Oahu.
Mountain Home
The Oahu lobelia lives mostly on the high, windy ridges of the mountains. Its home is a wet shrubland. A shrubland is an area with many shrubs, which are like small bushes. These areas are often found on slopes that lead up to the very tops of the mountains, where clouds often touch the ground. This area is sometimes called the "cloud zone" because it's so high and misty.
Why is the Oahu Lobelia Endangered?
The Oahu lobelia faces big challenges that make it hard for it to survive.
Losing Its Home
One of the biggest problems is habitat degradation. This means its natural home is being damaged or changed. Things like new buildings, roads, or even people hiking can harm the delicate places where it grows.
Animal Threats
Another threat is predation. This means animals are eating the plants or their seeds. Sometimes, animals that are not native to Hawaii, like wild pigs or goats, can eat the plants or stomp on them, destroying their habitat.
Protecting the Oahu Lobelia
Because the Oahu lobelia is so rare, people are working to protect it. Scientists and conservation groups try to keep its mountain home safe. They work to remove harmful plants or animals that threaten it. Protecting this plant helps keep Hawaii's unique nature special for everyone.
