Niihau lobelia facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Niihau lobelia |
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| Conservation status | |
| Scientific classification | |
| Genus: |
Lobelia
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| Species: |
niihauensis
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The Lobelia niihauensis, also known as the Niihau lobelia, is a very rare flowering plant. It belongs to the bellflower family. This special plant grows only in Hawaii.
It is found only on the islands of Oʻahu and Kauaʻi. Sadly, it is believed to have disappeared from Niʻihau. The United States government lists it as an endangered species. This means it is at high risk of disappearing forever.
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Meet the Niihau Lobelia
The Niihau lobelia is a unique plant from the Hawaiian Islands. It is part of a group of plants called Lobelia. Many lobelia species are found only in Hawaii. This makes them very special.
Where Does It Grow?
This plant likes to live in tough places. It grows on steep cliffs that are often dry. These cliffs can be found from 125 to 725 meters high. That's like climbing a very tall building! It prefers areas that are exposed to the elements.
It grows in dry to mesic areas. Mesic means it gets a moderate amount of moisture. These specific conditions are important for its survival.
What Does It Look Like?
The Niihau lobelia is known for its beautiful flowers. It produces long flower stalks. These stalks have many magenta-colored flowers. Magenta is a bright purplish-red color. These flowers grow at the very end of the stalks.
Why Is It in Danger?
The Niihau lobelia is an endemic plant. This means it naturally grows only in Hawaii. Because it grows in such a small area, it is very vulnerable.
One big problem for this plant is animals. Goats especially like to eat it. Goats may have caused the plant to disappear from other habitats. This is why it now only grows on steep cliffs. These cliffs are too difficult for goats to reach.
Being an endangered species means it faces serious threats. These threats could lead to its complete disappearance.
Protecting This Special Plant
Because the Niihau lobelia is endangered, efforts are being made to protect it. Protecting its habitat is very important. This includes keeping goats away from the areas where it grows.
Scientists and conservationists work to help rare plants like this. They try to understand what the plant needs to survive. They also work to grow new plants in safe places. This helps ensure the Niihau lobelia will be around for future generations.
Images for kids
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A close-up of the Niihau lobelia plant.
