Twocleft stenogyne facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Twocleft stenogyne |
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|---|---|
| Conservation status | |
| Scientific classification | |
| Genus: |
Stenogyne
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| Species: |
bifida
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Stenogyne bifida is a very rare flowering plant. It belongs to the mint family. People sometimes call it the twocleft stenogyne. This plant is special because it grows naturally only in Hawaii. You can find it only on the island of Molokai. In 2010, there was only one young plant left in the wild. Because it is so rare, the United States government lists it as an endangered species. This means it is protected by law.
Contents
What is Stenogyne bifida?
This plant is a type of vine. It grows along the ground or climbs on other plants. It is a perennial, which means it lives for more than two years. Its flowers are usually yellow-green or brownish.
Where Does This Plant Live?
Stenogyne bifida lives in forests that have been changed by human activity. These forests are mostly filled with Metrosideros polymorpha trees. This plant is endemic to Hawaii. This means it is found nowhere else in the world. Specifically, it only grows on the island of Molokai.
Why Is This Plant in Danger?
This rare plant faces many challenges. These challenges make it hard for the plant to survive.
Threats from Animals
One big problem comes from feral pigs. These are wild pigs that are not native to Hawaii. They dig up the ground and eat plants. This damages the habitat where Stenogyne bifida grows.
Threats from Other Plants
Another threat comes from introduced plant species. These are plants brought to Hawaii from other places. They grow very fast and take up space. They compete with Stenogyne bifida for sunlight, water, and nutrients. Some of these competing plants include:
- Molasses grass
- Holly fern
- Thimbleberry
- Christmasberry
