Mann's clubmoss facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Mann's clubmoss |
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| Conservation status | |
| Scientific classification | |
| Genus: |
Phlegmariurus
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| Species: |
mannii
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| Synonyms | |
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Phlegmariurus mannii, also called Mann's clubmoss or wawaeʻiole, is a unique plant. It is a type of clubmoss, which are ancient plants related to ferns. This special plant is found only in Hawaii. It is an endangered species, meaning there are very few left.
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About Mann's Clubmoss
Phlegmariurus mannii is an epiphyte. This means it grows on other plants, not in the soil. It often grows on trees like koa (Acacia koa), ʻolapa (Cheirodendron trigynum), and kawaʻu (Ilex anomala).
What it Looks Like
This clubmoss has a stem that hangs down. The stem is usually reddish and can be up to 10 centimetres (3.9 in) long. It has branches that also hang. Each branch has three rows of small, tooth-like leaves.
How it Reproduces
When it's time to reproduce, the plant grows a special spike. This spike can be up to 20 centimetres (7.9 in) long. It branches out and helps the plant make new spores to grow more clubmosses.
Where it Lives
Today, Mann's clubmoss is found in only a few places. These places are on the islands of Maui and Hawaii. It used to live on Kauai, but it might be completely gone from there now.
Why it's Endangered
There are only six groups of these plants left. Several things threaten them. Wild animals like feral pigs and cattle can damage their habitat. Also, new plants that were brought to Hawaii, called introduced species, can take over their space. Because there are so few plants left, it's harder for them to survive and grow.
