Mann's cyanea facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Mann's cyanea |
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| Conservation status | |
| Scientific classification | |
| Genus: |
Cyanea
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| Species: |
mannii
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Cyanea mannii is a very special and rare flowering plant. It's part of the bellflower family. People often call it Mann's cyanea. In Hawaiian, it's known as haha. This plant is found only in Hawaii. Specifically, it lives on the island of Molokai. There are fewer than 3,000 of these plants left. Because it's so rare, it's listed as an endangered species by the government.
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Discovering Mann's Cyanea
This plant is a type of Hawaiian lobelioid. It grows as a shrub, reaching about 1.5 to 3 meters tall. That's like a small tree!
What Mann's Cyanea Looks Like
The plant has a cluster of leaves at the top of its stem. This makes it look a bit like a small palm tree. When it blooms, it produces beautiful purple flowers. These flowers grow in a group called an inflorescence.
Where Mann's Cyanea Lives
Cyanea mannii prefers to grow in moist forest habitats. These are places where there is plenty of rain and the air is humid. The forests on Molokai provide the perfect home for this unique plant.
Why Mann's Cyanea is Endangered
Sadly, Cyanea mannii is an endangered species. This means it is at high risk of disappearing forever. The main reasons for its decline are problems with its habitat.
Threats to Its Home
The moist forests where Cyanea mannii lives are being damaged. This damage is often caused by animals that are not native to Hawaii. For example, feral pigs can dig up the forest floor. This harms the plants and changes the soil. Rodents, like rats, can also cause problems. They might eat the seeds or young plants. These actions make it very hard for new Cyanea mannii plants to grow.
Protecting This Rare Plant
Efforts are being made to protect Cyanea mannii. Scientists and conservationists are working to save its habitat. They are also trying to grow new plants from seeds. This helps to increase the number of plants in the wild. Protecting this plant helps to keep Hawaii's unique ecosystems healthy.
