Lanahale facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Lanahale |
|
|---|---|
| Conservation status | |
| Scientific classification | |
| Genus: |
Melicope
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| Species: |
munroi
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Melicope munroi is a very rare flowering plant. It belongs to the Rutaceae family, which also includes citrus fruits. People often call it lanahale or Munro's pelea. In Hawaii, like other Melicope plants, it is known as alani. This plant is endemic to Hawaii, meaning it grows naturally only there. It is currently found only on the island of Lanai. Because it is so rare, the United States government has listed it as an endangered species.
What Does Melicope munroi Look Like?
This plant is a shrub that can grow up to 3 meters (about 10 feet) tall. Its leaves are oval-shaped. They can be as long as 11 centimeters (about 4.3 inches) and as wide as 7.5 centimeters (about 3 inches).
Where Does Melicope munroi Live?
Today, you can only find Melicope munroi growing in the wild on the island of Lanai. Sadly, it used to live on the island of Molokai too. However, it has been extirpated from Molokai. This means it no longer exists there in the wild.
Why Is Melicope munroi Endangered?
The main reason Melicope munroi is endangered is because its natural home is being damaged. This damage comes from a few sources. One big problem is deer. These animals eat the plants and can destroy their habitat. Another threat comes from introduced species of plants. These are plants that were brought to Hawaii by people. They often grow very fast and can take over the space and resources that native plants like Melicope munroi need to survive.
