Melicope zahlbruckneri facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Melicope zahlbruckneri |
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| Conservation status | |
| Scientific classification | |
| Genus: |
Melicope
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| Species: |
zahlbruckneri
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Melicope zahlbruckneri, also known as Zahlbruckner's melicope or kipuka piaula, is a special kind of tree. It belongs to the Rutaceae family, which also includes citrus fruits like oranges and lemons!
This tree is found only in one place: the Big Island of Hawaii in the amazing Hawaiian Islands. When a plant or animal lives only in one specific place, it's called endemic. Right now, there's only one known group of these trees still growing in the wild, and it's inside Hawaii Volcanoes National Park.
Like other Melicope trees in Hawaii, this species has a local Hawaiian name: alani.
Where Does it Live?
This unique tree loves to grow in places with lava flows. It also thrives in soil that has lots of volcanic ash. Imagine a tree growing right out of volcanic rock!
Currently, there's a very small group of about 25 grown-up Melicope zahlbruckneri trees living in Hawaii Volcanoes National Park. A few more trees can be found nearby. To help this species survive, some younger trees have been planted in good spots where they can grow.
Why is it Endangered?
The Melicope zahlbruckneri tree is an endangered species. This means it's at a very high risk of disappearing forever. It's listed on the IUCN Red List, which tracks endangered plants and animals around the world. The United States government also recognizes it as an endangered species.
The biggest problem for this tree is habitat loss. This means the places where it naturally grows are shrinking or getting damaged.
What Threats Does it Face?
Even though these trees are protected, they face several challenges:
- Animals: Wild animals like cattle and feral pigs can harm the trees or their habitat. Luckily, efforts are being made to protect the trees from these animals.
- New Plants: Non-native plants are also a big problem. These are plants that were brought to Hawaii from other places. They can grow very fast and take over the space and resources that native plants like Melicope zahlbruckneri need to survive.
Scientists and conservationists are working hard to protect this rare Hawaiian tree so it can continue to be a part of Hawaii's amazing natural world.
