Moloka'i beggarticks facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Molokaʻi beggarticks |
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| Conservation status | |
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| Genus: |
Bidens
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| Species: |
molokaiensis
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The Molokaʻi beggarticks, known scientifically as Bidens molokaiensis, is a special flowering plant. It belongs to the Asteraceae family, which includes sunflowers and daisies. In the Hawaiian language, plants from its group, Bidens, are called kokoʻolau or koʻokoʻolau. This unique plant grows only on the island of Molokaʻi in the beautiful Hawaiian Islands.
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What is Molokaʻi Beggarticks?
The Molokaʻi beggarticks is a type of plant that produces flowers. It is part of the Bidens group. This group of plants is often called kokoʻolau or koʻokoʻolau by the people of Hawaii. These names are important in the local culture.
This plant is a species within the large family called Asteraceae. This family is very diverse. It includes many well-known plants like sunflowers, daisies, and dandelions.
Where Molokaʻi Beggarticks Lives
The Molokaʻi beggarticks is an endemic plant. This means it is found naturally in only one place in the world. For this plant, that special place is the island of Molokaʻi. Molokaʻi is one of the many islands that make up the Hawaiian Islands.
This plant likes to grow in specific places. It lives in Hawaiian tropical low shrublands. These are areas with small bushes and shrubs. It also grows along rocky shores. These coastal areas provide a unique environment for the plant to thrive.
Why Molokaʻi Beggarticks is in Danger
Sadly, the Molokaʻi beggarticks is a threatened species. It faces several serious dangers. These threats make it harder for the plant to survive and grow.
Habitat Loss
One major problem is habitat loss. This happens when the natural places where the plant lives are destroyed or changed. This can be caused by many things.
Invasive Weeds
Invasive weeds are a big threat. These are plants that are not native to Hawaii. They grow very fast and take over the space. They also use up the water and nutrients that native plants like the Molokaʻi beggarticks need. This makes it hard for the native plants to compete.
Overgrazing
Overgrazing is another issue. This occurs when too many animals eat the plants. Animals like goats or deer can eat young Molokaʻi beggarticks plants. This stops them from growing big and strong. It also prevents them from making new seeds.
Brushfires
Brushfires are also a danger. These fires can spread quickly through dry areas. They destroy plants and their seeds. After a fire, it can be very difficult for native plants to grow back.
These threats combined put the Molokaʻi beggarticks at risk. Efforts are being made to protect this special Hawaiian plant.
