Spreading nehe facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Spreading nehe |
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|---|---|
| Conservation status | |
| Scientific classification | |
| Kingdom: | |
| (unranked): | |
| (unranked): | |
| (unranked): | |
| Order: | |
| Family: | |
| Subfamily: |
Asteroideae
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| Tribe: | |
| Genus: |
Melanthera
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| Species: |
M. venosa
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| Binomial name | |
| Melanthera venosa (Sherff) W.L. Wagner & H. Rob.
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Melanthera venosa, also known as spreading nehe, is a very rare flowering plant. It belongs to the aster family, which includes plants like daisies and sunflowers. This special plant is found only in Hawaii, specifically on the island of Hawaii. Because it is so rare, the United States government lists it as an endangered species.
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What is Spreading Nehe?
Spreading nehe is a type of perennial herb. This means it lives for more than two years. It grows beautiful yellow flower heads that look a lot like small daisies.
Where Does it Live?
This unique plant grows on cinder cones on the island of Hawaii. Cinder cones are small, cone-shaped hills made from volcanic ash and rock. There are only six known places where spreading nehe grows. In total, there are about 3,000 individual plants left in the wild.
Why is Spreading Nehe Endangered?
Spreading nehe faces many challenges that threaten its survival. Its home, or habitat, is shrinking and becoming damaged.
Threats to its Habitat
Much of the land where spreading nehe lives is used for ranching. Cattle graze in these areas, and feral pigs roam freely. These animals can eat or trample the delicate plants.
Other Dangers
Non-native plants are also a big problem. These plants come from other places and can grow quickly. They compete with spreading nehe for sunlight, water, and nutrients. Fires can also destroy the plant's habitat. In some areas, cinder mining takes place. This activity removes the very ground where spreading nehe grows, destroying its home.
