Endangered and Threatened Wildlife and Plants; Final Designation or Nondesignation of Critical Habitat for 95 Plant Species From the Islands of Kauai and Niihau, HI

DEPARTMENT OF THE INTERIOR

Fish and Wildlife Service

50 CFR Part 17

RIN 1018-AG71

Endangered and Threatened Wildlife and Plants; Final Designation or Nondesignation of Critical Habitat for 95 Plant Species From the Islands of Kauai and Niihau, HI

AGENCY:

Fish and Wildlife Service, Interior.

ACTION:

Final rule.

SUMMARY:

We, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (Service), designate critical habitat pursuant to the Endangered Species Act of 1973, as amended (Act), for 83 of the 95 species known historically from the Hawaiian islands of Kauai and Niihau. A total of approximately 21,266 hectares (ha) (52,549 acres (ac)) of land on the island of Kauai and 144 ha (357 ac) of land on the island of Niihau fall within the boundaries of the 217 critical habitat units designated for the 83 species. This critical habitat designation requires the Service to consult under section 7 of the Act with regard to actions carried out, funded, or authorized by a Federal agency. Section 4 of the Act requires us to consider economic and other relevant impacts when specifying any particular area as critical habitat. This rule also determines that designating critical habitat would not be prudent for seven species. We solicited data and comments from the public on all aspects of the proposed rule, including data on economic and other impacts of the designation.

DATES:

This rule becomes effective on March 31, 2003.

ADDRESSES:

Comments and materials received, as well as supporting documentation, used in the preparation of this final rule will be available for public inspection, by appointment, during normal business hours at U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, Pacific Islands Office, 300 Ala Moana Blvd., Room 3-122, P.O. Box 50088, Honolulu, HI 96850-0001.

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT:

Paul Henson, Field Supervisor, Pacific Islands Office at the above address (telephone 808/541-3441; facsimile 808/541-3470).

SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION:

Background

In the Lists of Endangered and Threatened Plants (50 CFR 17.12), there are 95 plant species that, at the time of listing, were reported from the islands of Kauai and/or Niihau (Table 1). Fifty-seven of these species are endemic to the islands of Kauai and Niihau, while 38 species are reported from one or more other islands, as well as Kauai and/or Niihau. Each of these species is described in more detail below in the section, “Discussion of Plant Taxa.” Although we considered designating critical habitat on Kauai for each of the 95 plant species, for the reasons described below, the final designation includes critical habitat for 83 of 95 plant species. Species that also occur on other islands may have critical habitat designated on other islands in subsequent rulemakings.

Table 1.—Summary of Island Distribution of 95 Species From Kauai and Niihau

Species

Island distribution

Kauai

Oahu

Molokai

Lanai

Maui

Hawaii

N.W. Isles, Kahoolawe, Niihau

Acaena exigua

(liliwai)

H

H

Achyranthes mutica

(NCN*)

H

C

Adenophorus periens

(pendent kihi fern)

C

H

C

R

R

C

Alectryon macrococcus

(mahoe)

C

C

C

C

Alsinidendron lychnoides

(kuawawaenohu)

C

Alsinidendron viscosum

(NCN)

C

Bonamia menziesii

(NCN)

C

C

H

C

C

C

Brighamia insignis

(olulu)

C

Ni (C)

Centaurium sebaeoides

(awiwi)

C

C

C

C

C

Chamaesyce halemanui

(NCN)

C

Ctenitis squamigera

(pauoa)

H

C

C

C

C

H

Cyanea asarifolia

(haha)

C

Cyanea recta

(haha)

C

Cyanea remyi

(haha)

C

Cyanea undulata

(NCN)

C

Cyperus trachysanthos

(puukaa)

C

C

H

H

Ni (C)

Cyrtandra cyaneoides

(mapele)

C

Cyrtandra limahuliensis

(haiwale)

C

Delissea rhytidosperma

(NCN)

C

Delissea rivularis

(oha)

C

Delissea undulatra

(NCN)

C

H

C

Ni (H)

Diellia erecta

(NCN)

C

C

C

H

C

C

Diellia pallida

(NCN)

C

Diplazium molokaiense

(NCN)

H

H

H

H

C

Dubautia latifolia

(koholapehu)

C

Dubautia pauciflorula

(naenae)

C

Euphorbia haeleeleana

(akoko)

C

C

Exocarpos luteolus

(heau)

C

Flueggea neowawraea

(mehamehame)

C

C

H

C

C

Gouania meyenii

(NCN)

C

C

Hedyotis cookiana

(awiwi)

C

H

H

H

Hedyotis st.-johnii

(Na Pali beach hedyotis)

C

Hesperomannia lydgatei

(NCN)

C

Hibiscadelphus woodii

(hau kuahiwi)

C

Hibiscus brackenridgei

(mao hau hele)

H

C

H

C

C

C

Ka (R)

Hibiscus clayi

(Clay's hibiscus)

C

Hibiscus waimeae

ssp.

hannerae

(kokio keokeo)

C

Ischaemum byrone

(Hilo ischaemum)

C

H

C

C

C

Isodendrion laurifolium

(aupaka)

C

C

Isodendrion longifolium

(aupaka)

C

C

Isodendrion pyrifolium

(wahine noho kula)

H

H

H

H

C

Ni (H)

Kokia kauaiensis

(kokio)

C

Labordia lydgatei

(kamakahala)

C

Labordia tinifolia

var.

wahiawaensis

(kamakahala)

C

Lipochaeta fauriei

(nehe)

C

Lipochaeta micrantha

(nehe)

C

Lipochaeta waimeaensis

(nehe)

C

Lobelia niihauensis

C

C

Ni (H)

Lysimachia filifolia

(NCN)

C

C

Mariscus pennatiformis

(NCN)

H

H

C

H

NW (C)

Melicope haupuensis

(alani)

C

Melicope knudsenii

(alani)

C

C

Melicope pallida

(alani)

C

C

Melicope quadrangularis

(alani)

H

Munroidendron racemosum

(NCN)

C

Myrsine linearifolia

(kolea)

C

Nothocestrum peltatum

(aiea)

C

Panicum niihauense

(lau ehu)

C

Ni (H)

Peucedanum sandwicense

(makou)

C

C

C

C

Phlegmariurus mannii

(wawaeiole)

H

C

C

Phlegmariurus nutans

(wawaeiole)

H

C

Phyllostegia knudsenii

(NCN)

C

Phyllostegia waimeae

(NCN)

C

Phyllostegia wawrana

(NCN)

C

Plantago princeps

(laukahi kuaj)

C

C

C

C

H

Platanthera holochila

(NCN)

C

H

C

C

Poa mannii

(Mann's bluegrass)

C

Poa sandvicensis

(Hawaiian bluegrass)

C

Poa siphonoglossa

(NCN)

C

Pritchardia aylmer-robinsonii

(wahane)

Ni (C)

Pritchardia napaliensis

(loulu)

C

Pritchardia viscosa

loulu

C

Pteralyxia kauaiensis

(kaulu)

C

Remya kauaiensis

(NCN)

C

Remya montgomeryi

(NCN)

C

Schiedea apokremnos

(maolioli)

C

Schiedea helleri

(NCN)

C

Schiedea kauaiensis

(NCN)

C

Schiedea membranacea

(NCN)

C

Schiedea nuttallii

(NCN)

C

C

C

R

Schiedea spergulina

var.

leiopoda

(NCN)

C

Schiedea spergulina

var.

spergulina

(NCN)

C

Schiedea stellarioides

(NCN)

C

Sesbania tomentosa

(ohai)

C

C

C

H

C

C

Ni (H), Ka (C), NW Isles (C)

Silene lanceolata

(NCN)

H

C

C

H

C

Solanum incompletum

(popolo ku mai)

H

H

H

H

C

Solanum sandwicense

(aiakeakua, popolo)

C

H

Spermolepis hawaiiensis

(NCN)

C

C

C

C

C

C

Stenogyne campanulata

(NCN)

C

Vigna o-wahuensis

(NCN)

H

C

C

C

C

Ni (H), Ka, (C)

Viola helenae

(NCN)

C

Viola kauaiensis

var.

wahiawaensis

(nani waialeale)

C

Wilkesia hobdyi

(dwarf iliau)

C

Xylosma crenatum

(NCN)

C

Zanthoxylum hawaiiense

(ae)

C

C

H

C

C

KEY

C (Current)—population last observed within the past 30 years

H (Historical)—population not seen for more than 30 years

R (Reported)—reported from undocumented observations

* NCN—No Common Name

The Islands of Kauai and Niihau

Because of its age and relative isolation, Kauai has levels of floristic diversity and endemism that are higher than on any other island in the Hawaiian archipelago. However, the vegetation on Kauai has undergone extreme alterations because of past and present land use. Land with rich soils was altered by the early Hawaiians and, more recently, converted to agricultural use or pasture. Intentional or inadvertent introduction of nonnative plant and animal species has also contributed to the reduction of native vegetation on the island of Kauai. Native forests are now limited to the upper elevation mesic (moist) and wet regions within Kauai's Conservation District. The land that supports the habitat essential to the conservation of the 83 plant taxa is owned by various private parties, the State of Hawaii (including State parks, forest reserves, natural area reserves, and a wilderness area), and the Federal government. Most of the taxa included in this final rule persist on steep slopes, precipitous cliffs, valley headwalls, and other regions where unsuitable topography has prevented agricultural development, or where inaccessibility has limited encroachment by nonnative plant and animal species (Gagne and Cuddihy 1999).

Niihau's relative isolation and severe environmental conditions have produced a few endemic species. Unfortunately, human disturbance, primarily ungulate ranching, has drastically changed the vegetation and hydrological parameters of the island, leaving few of the native vegetation communities. Niihau has been privately owned since 1864 and access has been, and continues to be, restricted (Department of Geography 1998). Therefore, current information on plant locations and population status is extremely limited.

Discussion of Plant Taxa

Species Endemic to Kauai and Niihau

Alsinidendron lychnoides

(kuawawaenohu)

Alsinidendron lychnoides

, a member of the pink family (Caryophyllaceae), is a weakly climbing or sprawling subshrub, woody at the base, with a dense covering of fine glandular hairs throughout. This short-lived perennial species is distinguished from others in this endemic Hawaiian genus by the weakly climbing or sprawling habit, color of the sepals (modified leaves), number of flowers per cluster, and size of the leaves. It is closely related to

A. viscosum

, which differs primarily by having narrower leaves, fewer capsule valves (fruit chambers), and fewer flowers per cluster (Wagner

et al.

1999).

This species has been observed with fruits during February. No additional life history information for this species is currently known (Service 1998a).

Historically,

Alsinidendron lychnoides

was found on the island of Kauai on the east rim of Kalalau Valley near Keanapuka, the western and southeastern margins of the Alakai Swamp, and southwest of the Swamp near Kaholuamano. Currently, there are four occurrences with a total of eight individual plants. This species is extant on State-owned land in the Alakai Swamp, the MohihiWaialae Trail, Keanapuka and Pihea in the Alakai Wilderness Preserve, Na Pali Coast State Park, and Na Pali-Kona Forest Reserve (Geographic Decision Systems International (GDSI) 2000; Hawaii Natural Heritage Program (HINHP) Database 2000).

Alsinidendron lychnoides

typically grows on steep riparian clay or silty soil banks in montane wet forests dominated by

Metrosideros polymorpha

(ohia) and

Cheirodendron

spp. (olapa), or by

M. polymorpha

and

Dicranopteris linearis

(uluhe), at elevations between 828 and 1,344 meters (m) (2,715 and 4,408 feet (ft)). Associated native plant species include

Asplenium

spp. (no common name (NCN)),

Astelia

spp. (painiu),

Broussaisia arguta

(kanawao),

Carex

spp. (NCN),

Cyrtandra

spp. (haiwale),

Diplazium sandwichianum

(NCN),

Elaphoglossum

spp. (ekaha),

Hedyotis terminalis

(manono),

Machaerina

spp. (uki),

Peperomia

spp. (ala ala wai nui), or

Vaccinium

spp. (ohelo) (61 FR 53070; Ken Wood, National Tropical Botanical Garden (NTBG), pers. comm., 2001).

The major threats to this species are competition from the aggressive nonnative plant species

Rubus argutus

(prickly Florida blackberry); habitat degradation by feral pigs (

Sus scrofa

); trampling by humans; risk of extinction from naturally occurring events, such as landslides or hurricanes; and reduced reproductive vigor due to the small number of extant individuals (61 FR 53070).

Alsinidendron viscosum

(no common name (NCN))

Alsinidendron viscosum

, a member of the pink family (Caryophyllaceae), is a weakly climbing or sprawling subshrub densely covered with fine glandular hairs. This short-lived perennial species is distinguished from others in this endemic Hawaiian genus by the weakly climbing or sprawling habit, color of the sepals, number of flowers per cluster, and size of the leaves. It is closely related to

A. lychnoides

, which differs primarily in having wider leaves and more capsule valves and flowers per cluster (Wagner

et al.

1999).

Alsinidendron viscosum

has been observed in flower during January, February, and April. No additional life history information for this species is currently known (Service 1998a).

Historically,

Alsinidendron viscosum

was found at Kaholuamano, Kokee, Halemanu, Nawaimaka, and Waialae areas of northwestern Kauai. Currently, there are a total of seven occurrences containing about 319 individuals on the island of Kauai. These occurrences are on State-owned land at the Halemanu-Kokee Trail, Mohihi-Waialae Trail, Kawaiiki Valley, Waialae Falls, and Nawaimaka Valley in the Alakai Wilderness Preserve, Kokee State Park, and the Na Pali-Kona Forest Reserve (GDSI 2000; HINHP Database 2000; 61 FR 53070).

Alsinidendron viscosum

is typically found at elevations between 754 and 1,224 m (2,474 and 4,016 ft), on steep slopes in

Acacia koa

(koa)-

Metrosideros polymorpha

lowland and montane mesic forest. Associated native plant species include

Alyxia oliviformis

(maile),

Asplenium polyodon

(punana manu),

Bidens cosmoides

(poola nui),

Bobea

spp. (ahakea),

Carex meyenii

(NCN),

Carex wahuensis

(NCN),

Coprosma

spp. (pilo),

Dianella sandwicensis

(ukiuki),

Dodonaea viscosa

(aalii),

Doodia kunthiana

(ohupuku pulauii),

Dryopteris glabra

(kilau),

Dryopteris unidentata

(akole),

Dryopteris wallichiana

(ionui),

Dubautia laevigata

(naenae),

Gahnia

spp. (NCN),

Ilex anomala

(aiea),

Melicope

spp. (alani),

Panicum nephelophilum

(konakona),

Pleomele aurea

(hala pepe),

Psychotria

spp. (kopiko),

Pteridium aquilinum

var.

decompositum

(bracken fern),

Schiedea stellarioides

(laulihilihi), or

Vaccinium dentatum

(ohelo) (K. Wood, pers. comm., 2001).

The major threats to this species are destruction of habitat by feral pigs and goats (

Capra hircus

); competition with the nonnative plant species

Lantana camara

(lantana), and

Melinis minutiflora

(molasses grass),

Rubus argutus

; a risk of extinction from naturally occurring events, such as landslides or hurricanes; and reduced reproductive vigor due to the small number of extant populations and individuals (61 FR 53070).

Brighamia insignis

(olulu)

Brighamia insignis

, a member of the bellflower family (Campanulaceae), is an unbranched plant with a succulent stem that is bulbous at the bottom and

tapers toward the top, ending in a compact rosette of fleshy leaves. This short-lived perennial species is a member of a unique endemic Hawaiian genus with only one other species,

B. rockii

(pua ala), presently known only on Molokai, from which it differs by the color of its petals, its shorter calyx (sepals) lobes, and its longer flower stalks (Lammers 1999; 59 FR 9304).

Current reproduction is not thought to be sufficient to sustain populations of this species, with poor seedling establishment due to competition with nonnative grasses as the limiting factor. Pollination by native sphingid moths (Sphingidae family) is likely; however, pollination failure is common, due to either a lack of pollinators or a reduction in genetic variability. The flower structure appears to favor out-crossing (pollination between different parent plants). Some vegetative cloning has been observed and flower and leaf size appear to be dependent on moisture availability. Seeds of this species are undoubtedly dispersed by gravity. Although they may be blown for short distances, they are not adapted for wind dispersal, being ovoid to ellipsoid, smooth, and lacking any sort of wing or outgrowth (Service 1995; 59 FR 9304).

Historically,

Brighamia insignis

was known from the headland between Hoolulu and Waiahuakua Valleys along the Na Pali Coast on the island of Kauai, and from Kaali Spring on the island of Niihau. Currently, there are a total of four occurrences containing a total of about 42 to 62 individuals on the islands of Kauai and Niihau. It is reported on State land (Hono O Na Pali Natural Area Reserve (NAR)) and privately owned lands at Hoolulua and Waiahuakua Valleys, Haupu, and Keopaweo, and on the privately owned island of Niihau (GDSI 2000; HINHP Database 2000; Service 1995; Steve Perlman, NTBG, pers. comm., 2000).

Brighamia insignis

is found at elevations between 0 and 748 m (0 and 2,453 ft) on rocky ledges with little soil or on steep sea cliffs in lowland dry grasslands or shrublands with annual rainfall that is usually less than 165 centimeters (cm) (65 inches (in)). Associated native plant species include

Artemisia australis

(ahinahina),

Chamaesyce celastroides

(akoko),

Eragrostis variabilis

(kawelu),

Heteropogon contortus

(pili grass),

Hibiscus kokio

(kokio),

Hibiscus kokio

ssp.

saintjohnianus

(kokio),

Lepidium serra

(anaunau),

Lipochaeta succulenta

(nehe),

Munroidendron racemosum

(NCN), or

Sida fallax

(ilima) (59 FR 9304; K. Wood, pers. comm., 2001).

The major threats to this plant are browsing and habitat degradation by feral goats; human disturbance; fire; the introduced carmine spider mite (

Tetranychus cinnabarinus

); a risk of extinction from naturally occurring events, such as landslides or hurricanes, due to the small number of individuals; restricted distribution; reduced reproductive vigor; and competition from nonnative plant species such as

Ageratum conyzoides

(maile hohono),

Kalanchoe pinnata

(air plant),

Lantana camara

,

Melinis minutiflora

,

Psidium cattleianum

(strawberry guava),

Psidium guajava

(guava),

Setaria parviflora

(yellow foxtail),

Sporobolus africanus

(smutgrass), or

Stachytarpheta dichotoma

(owi) (59 FR 9304).

Chamaesyce halemanui

(NCN)

Chamaesyce halemanui

, a short-lived perennial member of the spurge family (Euphorbiaceae), is a scandent (climbing) shrub. It is distinguished from closely related species by its decussate leaves (arranged in pairs at right angles to the next pair above or below), persistent stipules (bract- or leaf-like structures), more compact flower clusters, shorter stems on cyathia (flower cluster), and smaller capsules (Koutnik 1987; Koutnik and Huft 1999; 57 FR 20580).

Little is known about the life history of

Chamaesyce halemanui.

Its flowering cycles, pollination vectors, seed dispersal agents, longevity, specific environmental requirements, and limiting factors are unknown (Service 1995).

Historically,

Chamaesyce halemanui

was found in Kauhao and Makaha Valleys in the Na Pali-Kona Forest Reserve, Mahanaloa Valley in Kuia NAR, the Halemanu drainage in Kokee State Park, and Olokele Canyon on the island of Kauai. Currently, there are a total of nine occurrences, containing about 85 to 135 individuals, in Kuia Valley, Poopooiki Valley, Kauhao Valley, Kaha Ridge, Awaawapuhi Valley, Waipio Falls, Halemanu, and Kaluahaulu in the Kokee State Park, Kuia NAR, and Na Pali-Kona Forest Reserve on State-owned land (GDSI 2000; HINHP Database 2000; K. Wood,

in litt.

1999; K. Wood, pers. comm., 2001).

Chamaesyce halemanui

is typically found on the steep slopes of gulches in mesic

Acacia koa

forests at elevations between 556 and 1,249 m (1,825 and 4,097 ft). Associated native plant species include

Alphitonia ponderosa

(kauila),

Antidesma platyphyllum

(hame),

Asplenium

spp.,

Bobea brevipes

(ahakea lau lii),

Carex meyenii

,

Carex wahuensis

,

Cheirodendron trigynum

(olapa),

Coprosma

spp.,

Diospyros sandwicensis

(lama),

Dodonaea viscosa, Elaeocarpus bifidus

(kalia),

Hedyotis terminalis, Kokia kauaiensis

(kokio),

Leptecophylla tameiameiae

(pukiawe),

Melicope haupuensis

(alani),

Metrosideros polymorpha, Microlepia strigosa

(palapalai),

Panicum nephelophilum, Pisonia

spp. (papala kepau),

Pittosporum

spp. (hoawa),

Pleomele aurea,

Pouteria sandwicensis

(alaa),

Psychotria greenwelliae

(kopiko),

Psychotria mariniana

(kopiko), or

Santalum freycinetianum

(iliahi) (57 FR 20580; K. Wood, pers. comm., 2001).

The major threats to this species are competition from nonnative plants, such as

Lantana camara, Psidium cattleianum

, and

Stenotaphrum secundatum

(St. Augustine grass); habitat degradation by feral pigs; restricted distribution; small population size; increased potential for extinction resulting from naturally occurring events, such as landslides or hurricanes; and depressed reproductive vigor (57 FR 20580).

Cyanea asarifolia

(haha)

Cyanea asarifolia

, a member of the bellflower family (Campanulaceae), is a sparingly branched shrub. This short-lived perennial species is distinguished from others of the genus that grow on Kauai by the shape of the leaf base, the leaf width in proportion to the length, and the presence of a leaf stalk (Lammers 1999; 59 FR 9304).

Little is known about the life history of

Cyanea asarifolia.

Flowering cycles, pollination vectors, seed dispersal agents, longevity, specific environmental requirements, and limiting factors are unknown (Service 1995).

Historically,

Cyanea asarifolia

was known only from along the bank of Anahola Stream on Kauai. Currently, two occurrences with approximately four or five individuals are reported from the headwaters of the Wailua River in central Kauai on State-owned land in the Lihue-Koloa Forest Reserve (GDSI 2000; HINHP Database 2000).

This species typically grows in pockets of soil on sheer wet rock cliffs and waterfalls in lowland wet forests at elevations between 182 and 1,212 m (597 and 3,976 ft). Associated native plant species include ferns,

Bidens

spp. (kookoolau),

Dubautia plantaginea

(naenae),

Hedyotis centranthoides

(NCN),

Hedyotis elatior

(awiwi),

Lysimachia filifolia

(kolokolo kuahiwi),

Machaerina angustifolia

(uki),

Metrosideros polymorpha

, or

Panicum lineale

(NCN) (59 FR 9304; K. Wood, pers. comm., 2001).

The major threats to this species are a risk of extinction from naturally occurring events, such as hurricanes

and rock slides, and/or reduced reproductive vigor due to the small number of existing individuals; predation by introduced slugs and rodents (roof rats (

Rattus rattus

) and mice (

Mus musculus

)); and habitat degradation by feral pigs (59 FR 9304).

Cyanea recta

(haha)

Cyanea recta,

a member of the bellflower family (Campanulaceae), is an unbranched shrub with densely hairy flowers. This short-lived perennial species is distinguished from other species in the genus that grow on Kauai by the following characteristics: horizontal or ascending inflorescence; narrowly elliptic leaves 12 to 28 cm (4.7 to 11 in) long; flat leaf margins; and purple berries (Lammers 1990).

Little is known about the life history of

Cyanea recta.

Its flowering cycles, pollination vectors, seed dispersal agents, longevity, specific environmental requirements, and limiting factors are unknown (Service 1998a).

Historically,

Cyanea recta

was found in upper Hanalei Valley, Waioli Valley, Hanapepe Valley, Kalalau cliffs, Wainiha Valley, Makaleha Mountains, Limahuli Valley, Powerline Trail, and the Lehua Makanoe-Alakai area on the island of Kauai. Currently, there is a total of eight occurrences, with approximately 198 to 208 individuals, on State and private lands in the following areas: Waioli Valley, the left and right branches of Wainiha Valley, Makaleha Mountains, and Puu Eu, including areas in Halelea Forest Reserve, Kealia Forest Reserve, and the Lihue-Koloa Forest Reserve (GDSI 2000; HINHP Database 2000).

Cyanea recta

grows in lowland wet or mesic

Metrosideros polymorpha

forest or shrubland, usually in gulches or on slopes, and typically at elevations between 234 and 1,406 m (768 and 4,613 ft). Associated native plant species include

Antidesma platyphyllum, Cheirodendron platyphyllum

(lapalapa),

Cibotium

spp. (hapuu),

Dicranopteris linearis, Diplazium

spp. (NCN) , or

Psychotria

spp. (61 FR 53070; K. Wood, pers. comm., 2001).

The major threats to this species are bark removal and other damage by rats; habitat degradation by feral pigs; browsing by goats; unidentified slugs that feed on the stems; and competition with the nonnative plant species

Blechnum occidentale

(blechnum fern),

Clidemia hirta

(Koster's curse),

Crassocephalum crepidioides

(NCN),

Deparia petersenii

(NCN),

Erechtites valerianifolia

(fireweed),

Lantana camara, Melastoma candidum

(NCN),

Paspalum conjugatum

(Hilo grass),

Rubus rosifolius

(thimbleberry),

Sacciolepis indica

(Glenwood grass), or

Youngia japonica

(Oriental hawksbeard) (61 FR 53070).

Cyanea remyi

(haha)

Cyanea remyi,

a member of the bellflower family (Campanulaceae), is a shrub with generally unbranched, unarmed (lacking prickles) stems which are hairy toward the base. This short-lived perennial species is distinguished from others in the genus that grow on Kauai by its shrubby habit; relatively slender, unarmed stems; smooth or minutely toothed leaves; densely hairy flowers; the shape of the calyx lobes; length of the calyx and corolla; and length of the corolla lobe relative to the floral tube (Lammers 1999).

Little is known about the life history of

Cyanea remyi.

Its flowering cycles, pollination vectors, seed dispersal agents, longevity, specific environmental requirements, and limiting factors are unknown.

Currently, there are seven known occurrences with approximately 394 to 484 individuals among them on the island of Kauai.

Cyanea remyi

is reported from Pali Eleele, Waioli Valley, Makaleha, Blue Hole, Kawaikini, and Kapalaoa on privately and State-owned lands, including the Halelea and Lihue-Koloa Forest Reserves (GDSI 2000; HINHP Database 2000; Lammers and Lorence 1993; K. Wood,

in litt.

1999).

Cyanea remyi

is usually found in narrow drainages and wet streambanks in lowland wet forest or shrubland at elevations between 215 and 1,167 m (704 and 3,829 ft). Associated native plant species include various “finger ferns” (in the Grammitidaceae family) and “filmy ferns” (in the Hymenophyllaceae family),

Adenophorus

spp. (NCN),

Antidesma platyphyllum, Bidens

spp.,

Broussaisia arguta, Cheirodendron

spp.,

Cyrtandra

spp.,

Diplazium sandwichianum, Eragrostis grandis

(kawelu),

Freycinetia arborea

(ieie),

Hedyotis terminalis, Machaerina angustifolia, Metrosideros polymorpha, Perrottetia sandwicensis

(olomea),

Pipturus

spp. (mamaki),

Psychotria hexandra

(kopiko),

Syzygium sandwicensis

(ohia ha),

Thelypteris

spp. (palapalaia),

Touchardia latifolia

(olona), or

Urera glabra

(opuhe) (61 FR 53070; K. Wood, pers. comm., 2001).

The major threats to this species are competition with the nonnative plant species

Erechtites valerianifolia, Melastoma candidum, Paspalum conjugatum, Psidium cattleianum,

or

Rubus rosifolius;

habitat degradation by feral pigs; browsing by feral goats; predation by rats; unidentified slugs that feed on the stems; and a risk of extinction from naturally occurring events, such as landslides or hurricanes, due to the small number of remaining populations (61 FR 53070).

Cyanea undulata

(haha)

Cyanea undulata,

a member of the bellflower family (Campanulaceae), is an unbranched (or the stem is occasionally forked) shrub or subshrub with fine rust-colored hairs covering the lower surface of the leaves. Its undulating leaf margins distinguish the species from other Kauai members of the genus (Lammers 1990, 1999).

Native members of the Campanulaceae (bellflower) family, including the genus

Cyanea,

are generally believed to be adapted to pollination by native nectar-eating passerine birds, such as the Hawaiian “honeycreepers.” The long, tubular, slightly curved flowers of

C. undulata

fit this model, but field observations are lacking. The fleshy orange fruits of this species are adapted for bird dispersal like other species of

Cyanea.

Although recognized as a short-lived perennial species, specific details of the life history of this species, such as growth rates, age plants begin to flower, and longevity of plants, are unknown (Lorence and Flynn 1991; Service 1994).

Historically,

Cyanea undulata

was known only from the Wahiawa Bog area on Kauai. Currently, one occurrence with a total of 28 individuals is reported on privately owned land along the bank of a tributary of the Wahiawa Stream in the Wahiawa drainage (GDSI 2000; HINHP Database 2000).

Cyanea undulata

typically grows in narrow drainages and wet streambanks in

Metrosideros polymorpha

dry to montane wet forest or shrubland at elevations between 145 and 1,066 m (476 and 3,497 ft). Associated native species include various grammitid and filmy ferns,

Adenophorus

spp.,

Antidesma platyphyllum, Broussaisia arguta, Cheirodendron

spp.,

Diplazium sandwichianum, Dryopteris glabra, Eragrostis grandis

(kawelu),

Bidens

spp.,

Freycinetia arborea, Machaerina angustifolia, Mariscus

spp. (NCN),

Melicope feddei

(alani),

Perrottetia sandwicensis, Pipturus

spp.,

Psychotria mariniana, Psychotria hexandra, Sadleria pallida

(amau),

Sadleria squarrosa

(apuu),

Smilax melastomifolia

(pioi),

Sphenomeris chinensis

(palaa),

Syzygium sandwicensis,

or

Thelypteris

spp. (Service 1994; K. Wood, pers. comm., 2001).

The primary threats to this species include competition with the nonnative plant species

Clidemia hirta, Cyathea

cooperi

(Australian tree fern),

Deparia petersenii, Elephantopus mollis

(NCN),

Erechtites valerianifolia, Melaleuca quinquenervia

(paperbark tree),

Melastoma candidum, Oplismenus hirtellus

(basketgrass),

Paspalum conjugatum, Paspalum urvillei

(Vasey grass),

Pluchea carolinensis

(sourbush),

Psidium cattleianum, Rhodomyrtus tomentosa

(rose myrtle),

Rubus rosifolius, Sacciolepis indica, Setaria parviflora, Stachytarpheta australis,

or

Youngia japonica;

trampling by feral pigs; landslides; seed predation by rats; herbivory by introduced slugs; loss of pollinators; hurricanes; and decreased reproductive vigor, restricted distribution, and extinction due to unforseen circumstances because of small population size (Service 1994; 56 FR 47695).

Cyrtandra cyaneoides

(mapele)

Cyrtandra cyaneoides,

a member of the African violet family (Gesneriaceae), is an erect or ascending, fleshy, usually unbranched shrub with opposite toothed leaves which have impressed veins on the lower surface that are sparsely covered with long hairs. This short-lived perennial species differs from others of the genus that grow on Kauai by being a succulent, erect or ascending shrub; a bilaterally symmetrical calyx that is spindle-shaped in bud and falls off after flowering; leaves that are 41 to 56 cm (16 to 22 in) long and 23 to 35 cm (9 to 14 in) wide and have a wrinkled surface; and berries with shaggy hairs (Wagner

et al.

1999).

Little is known about the life history of

Cyrtandra cyaneoides.

Its flowering cycles, pollination vectors, seed dispersal agents, longevity, specific environmental requirements, and limiting factors are unknown (Service 1998a).

Historically,

Cyrtandra cyaneoides

was known to occur only along the trail to Waialae Valley on Kauai until recently discovered in other areas. It is currently known from five occurrences, containing about 354 to 454 individuals, on private and State lands (including Halelea Forest Reserve and Alakai Wilderness Preserve) at Pihea, Waioli Valley, Lumahai, the left branch of Wainiha Valley, and Makaleha (GDSI 2000; HINHP Database 2000; 61 FR 53070).

Cyrtandra cyaneoides

typically grows on talus rubble on steep slopes or cliffs with water seeps running below, near streams or waterfalls in lowland or montane wet forest or shrubland dominated by

Metrosideros polymorpha

or a mixture of

M. polymorpha, Cheirodendron

spp., and

Dicranopteris linearis

at elevations between 157 and 1,406 m (514 and 4,614 ft). Associated native species include

Bidens

spp.,

Boehmeria grandis

(akolea),

Coprosma

spp.,

Cyanea spp.

(haha),

Cyrtandra longifolia

(haiwale),

Cyrtandra kauaiensis

(ulunahele),

Cyrtandra limahuliensis

(haiwale),

Diplazium sandwichianum, Freycinetia arborea, Gunnera kauaiensis

(ape ape),

Hedyotis terminalis, Hedyotis tryblium

(NCN),

Machaerina

spp.,

Melicope clusiifolia

(kukaemoa),

Melicope puberula

(alani),

Perrottetia sandwicensis, Pipturus

spp.,

Psychotria

spp.,

Pritchardia

spp. (loulu), or

Stenogyne purpurea

(NCN) (61 FR 53070; K. Wood, pers. comm., 2001).

The major threats to this species are competition with nonnative plant species such as

Deparia petersenii, Drymaria cordata

(pipili),

Paspalum conjugatum,

and

Rubus rosifolius;

predation of seeds by rats; reduced reproductive vigor and a risk of extinction from naturally occurring events, such as landslides and hurricanes, due to the small number of populations; and habitat degradation by feral pigs (61 FR 53070).

Cyrtandra limahuliensis

(haiwale)

Cyrtandra limahuliensis,

a member of the African violet family (Gesneriaceae), is an unbranched or few-branched shrub with moderately or densely hairy leaves. The following combination of characteristics distinguishes this short-lived perennial species from others of the genus: the leaves are usually hairy (especially on lower surfaces), the usually symmetrical calyx is tubular or funnel-shaped and encloses the fruit at maturity, and the flowers are borne singly (Wagner

et al.

1990).

Little is known about the life history of

Cyrtandra limahuliensis.

Flowering cycles, pollination vectors, seed dispersal agents, longevity, specific environmental requirements, and limiting factors are unknown (Service 1995).

Historically,

Cyrtandra limahuliensis

was known from three locations on Kauai: Wainiha Valley, Lumahai Valley, and near Kilauea River, until it was recently discovered in additional areas. Currently, a total of 13 occurrences, containing approximately 2,746 to 3,024 individuals, are reported on private and State lands (including the Halelea, Kealia, and Lihue-Koloa Forest Reserves) at Limahuli Falls, Lumahai Valley, Waipa Valley, Waioli Valley, Kekoiki, Makaleha, the right fork of Wainiha Valley, Kualapa, Blue Hole, Kepalaoa, and Puu Kolo (GDSI 2000; HINHP Database 2000).

This species typically grows along streambanks in lowland wet forests at elevations between 208 and 1,594 m (681 and 5,228 ft). Associated native plant species include

Antidesma platyphyllum, Bidens

spp.,

Boehmeria grandis, Charpentiera

spp. (papala),

Cibotium glaucum

(hapuu),

Cyanea

spp.,

Cyrtandra kealiae

(haiwale),

Dicranopteris linearis, Diplazium sandwichianum, Dubautia

spp. (naenae),

Eugenia reinwardtiana

(nioi),

Gunnera kauaiensis, Hedyotis terminalis, Hibiscus waimeae

(kokio keokeo),

Metrosideros polymorpha, Perrottetia sandwicensis, Pipturus

spp.,

Pisonia

spp.,

Pritchardia

spp.,

Psychotria

spp.,

Touchardia latifolia,

or

Urera glabra

(59 FR 9304; K. Wood, pers. comm., 2001).

The major threats to this species are competition from nonnative plant species (

Blechnum occidentale, Clidemia hirta, Erechtites valerianifolia, Hedychium flavescens

(yellow ginger),

Melastoma candidum, Paspalum conjugatum, Psidium cattleianum, Psidium guajava, Rubus rosifolius,

or

Youngia japonica

); habitat degradation by feral pigs; natural landslides; and hurricanes (59 FR 9304).

Delissea rhytidosperma

(NCN)

Delissea rhytidosperma,

a member of the bellflower family (Campanulaceae), is a branched shrub with lance-shaped or elliptic toothed leaves. This short-lived perennial species differs from other species of the genus by the shape, length, and margins of the leaves and by having hairs at the base of the anthers (part of stamen that produces pollen) (Lammers 1999).

Little is known about the life history of

Delissea rhytidosperma.

Flowering cycles, pollination vectors, seed dispersal agents, longevity, specific environmental requirements, and limiting factors are unknown (Service 1995).

Historically,

Delissea rhytidosperma

was known from as far north as Wainiha and Limahuli Valleys, as far east as Kapaa and Kealia, and as far south as the Haupu Range, between the elevations of 122 and 915 m (400 and 3,000 ft) on the island of Kauai. Currently, three occurrences on private and State lands (including Kuia NAR), with a total of 11 individuals, are reported from Kuia Valley, Puhakukane, and the Haupu Range (GDSI 2000; HINHP Database 2000).

This species generally grows in well-drained soils with medium or fine-textured subsoil in

Diospyros

(lama) diverse lowland mesic forests or diverse

Metrosideros polymorpha-Acacia koa

forests at elevations between 167 and 895 m (547 and 2,935 ft). Associated native plant species include grammitid

ferns,

Adenophorus

spp.,

Cyanea

spp.,

Dianella sandwicensis, Diospyros sandwicensis, Dodonaea viscosa, Doodia kunthiana, Euphorbia haeleeleana

(akoko),

Hedyotis

spp. (NCN),

Leptecophylla tameiameiae, Microlepia strigosa, Nestegis sandwicensis

(olopua),

Pisonia

spp.,

Psychotria hobdyi

(kopiko), or

Pteralyxia kauaiensis

(kaulu) (59 FR 9304; K. Wood, pers. comm., 2001).

The major threats to this species are predation and/or habitat degradation by mule deer (

Odocoileus hemionus columbianus

), feral pigs, and goats; herbivory by rats and introduced slugs; fire; and competition with the nonnative plants

Cordyline fruticosa

(ti),

Lantana camara, Passiflora ligularis

(sweet granadilla), and Passiflora tarminiana (banana poka); and a risk of extinction from naturally occurring events, such as landslides or hurricanes, and/or reduced reproductive vigor due to the small number of existing individuals (Service 1995; 59 FR 9304).

Delissea rivularis

(oha)

Delissea rivularis,

a member of the bellflower family (Campanulaceae), is a shrub, unbranched or branched near the base, with hairy stems and leaves arranged in a rosette at the tips of the stems. This short-lived perennial species is distinguished from others of the genus by the color, length, and curvature of the corolla, shape of the leaves, and presence of hairs on the stems, leaves, flower clusters, and corolla (Lammers 1999).

Little is known about the life history of

Delissea rivularis.

Its flowering cycles, pollination vectors, seed dispersal agents, longevity, specific environmental requirements, and limiting factors are unknown (Service 1998a).

Historically,

Delissea rivularis

was found at Waiakealoha Waterfall, Waialae Valley, Hanakoa Valley, and Kaholuamanu on the island of Kauai (61 FR 53070). Currently, this species is known from two occurrences with a total of 40 individuals. The occurrences are reported from Moaalele and Hanakapiai on State land within the Hono o Na Pali NAR (GDSI 2000; HINHP Database 2000; K. Wood,

in litt.

1999).

Delissea rivularis

is found on steep slopes near streams in

Metrosideros polymorpha-Cheirodendron trigynum

montane wet or mesic forest at elevations between 722 and 1,306 m (2,370 and 4,286 ft). Associated native plant species include

Boehmeria grandis, Broussaisia arguta, Carex

spp.,

Coprosma

spp.,

Dubautia knudsenii

(naenae),

Diplazium sandwichianum, Hedyotis foggiana

(NCN),

Ilex anomala, Machaerina angustifolia, Melicope anisata

(mokihana),

Melicope clusiifolia, Pipturus

spp.,

Psychotria hexandra,

or

Sadleria

spp. (amau) (61 FR 53070; K. Wood, pers. comm., 2001).

The major threats to this species are competition with the encroaching nonnative plant

Rubus argutus;

habitat destruction by feral pigs; predation by rats; and reduced reproductive vigor and a risk of extinction from naturally occurring events, such as landslides or hurricanes, due to the small number of remaining individuals (Service 1998a; 61 FR 53070).

Diellia pallida

(NCN)

Diellia pallida,

a member of the spleenwort family (Aspleniaceae), is a fern that grows in tufts of three to four light green, lance-shaped fronds along with a few persistent dead ones, and reproduces by spores, the minute, reproductive dispersal unit of ferns and fern allies. This short-lived perennial species differs from others of this endemic Hawaiian genus by the color and sheen of the midrib, the presence and color of scales on the midrib, and the frequent fusion of sori (a group or cluster of spore cases) (Wagner 1952, 1987).

Little is known about the life history of

Diellia pallida.

Its reproductive cycles, dispersal agents, longevity, specific environmental requirements, and limiting factors are unknown (Service 1995).

Diellia pallida

was known historically from Halemanu on the island of Kauai. More recently additional occurrences have been found and currently, there is a total of six occurrences with 43 to 48 individuals in Mahanaloa and Kuia Valleys, Makaha Valley, Waimea Canyon, and Koaie Canyon, all on State-owned land including Kuia NAR, Na Pali-Kona Forest Reserve, and Puu Ka Pele Forest Reserve (GDSI 2000; HINHP Database 2000; 59 FR 9304; K. Wood,

in litt.

1999).

This species grows on bare granular soil with dry to mesophytic leaf litter with a pH of 6.9 to 7.9 on steep talus slopes in lowland mesic forests at elevations between 445 and 1,027 m (1,460 and 3,371 ft). Associated native plant species include

Acacia koa, Alectryon macrococcus, Alphitonia ponderosa, Alyxia oliviformis, Antidesma platyphyllum, Asplenium

spp.,

Carex meyenii, Diospyros hillebrandii

(lama),

Diospyros sandwicensis, Doodia kunthiana, Hedyotis knudsenii

(NCN),

Leptecophylla tameiameiae, Metrosideros polymorpha, Microlepia strigosa, Myrsine lanaiensis

(kolea),

Nestegis sandwicensis, Psychotria mariniana, Psydrax odorata

(alahee),

Pteralyxia kauaiensis, Rauvolfia sandwicensis

(hao),

Tetraplasandra kavaiensis

(ohe ohe),

Wilkesia gymnoxiphium

(iliau), or

Zanthoxylum dipetalum

(ae) (59 FR 9304; K. Wood, pers. comm., 2001).

The major threats to this species include competition with the nonnative plants

Aleurites moluccana

(kukui),

Cordyline fruticosa, Lantana camara, Melia azedarach

(Chinaberry),

Oplismenus hirtellus,

or

Stenotaphrum secundatum;

predation and habitat degradation by feral goats, pigs, and deer; fire; and a risk of extinction from naturally occurring events, such as landslides or hurricanes, and/or reduced reproductive vigor due to the small number of existing individuals (59 FR 9304).

Dubautia latifolia

(koholapehu)

Dubautia latifolia,

a member of the aster family (Asteraceae), is a diffusely branched, woody perennial vine with leaves that are conspicuously net-veined, with the smaller veins outlining nearly square areas. A vining habit, distinct petioles (leaf stalks), and broad leaves with conspicuous net veins outlining squarish areas separate this from closely related species (Carr 1982b, 1985, 1999a).

Individual plants of this species do not appear to be able to fertilize themselves. Since at least some individuals of

Dubautia latifolia

require cross-pollination, the wide spacing of individual plants (

e.g.

, each 0.5 kilometer (km) (0.3 mile (mi)) apart) may pose a threat to the reproductive potential of the species. The very low seed set noted in plants in the wild indicates a reproductive problem, possibly asynchronous flowering or lack of pollinators. Seedling establishment and survival to juvenile stage is also rare.

Dubautia latifolia

experiences seasonal vegetative decline during the spring and summer, often losing most of its leaves. New growth and flowering occur in the fall, with fruits developing in November. Pollinators and seed dispersal agents are unknown (Carr 1982b; Service 1995).

Historically,

Dubautia latifolia

was found in the Makaha, Awaawapuhi, Waialae, Kawaiula, and Kauhao Valleys of the Na Pali-Kona Forest Reserve, Nualolo Trail and Valley in Kuia NAR; Halemanu in Kokee State Park; along Mohihi Road in both Kokee State Park and Na Pali-Kona Forest Reserve, along the Mohihi-Waialae Trail on Mohihi and Kohua Ridges in both Na Pali-Kona Forest Reserve and Alakai Wilderness Preserve; and at Kaholuamanu on the

island of Kauai. Currently, there are a total of 26 occurrences containing approximately 65 to 84 individuals on State-owned land in Kauhao Valley, Makaha Valley headwaters, Kuia Valley, Kawaiula Valley, Kumuwela Ridge, Awaawapuhi Valley, Waiakoali picnic area, Alakai picnic area, Honopu Trail, Nualolo Trail, Waineke Swamp, Noe Stream, Kumuwela Ridge, Mohihi Ditch, Mohihi-Waialae Trail, and Kaluahaulu Ridge in the Alakai Wilderness Preserve, Kokee State Park, Kuia NAR, Na Pali-Kona Forest Reserve, and Waimea Canyon State Park (Carr 1982b; GDSI 2000; HINHP Database 2000; K. Wood,

in litt.

1999).

This species typically grows on gentle to steep slopes in well drained soil in semi-open or closed, diverse montane mesic forest dominated by

Acacia koa

and/or

Metrosideros polymorpha,

at elevations between 544 and 1,277 m (1,786 and 4,189 ft). Commonly associated native plant species are

Alphitonia ponderosa, Antidesma platyphyllum, Bobea

spp.,

Claoxylon sandwicense

(poola),

Coprosma waimeae

(olena),

Cyrtandra

spp.,

Dicranopteris linearis, Diplazium sandwichianum, Dodonaea viscosa, Elaeocarpus bifidus, Hedyotis terminalis, Ilex anomala, Melicope anisata, Nestegis sandwicensis, Pleomele aurea, Pouteria sandwicensis, Psychotria mariniana, Scaevola

spp. (naupaka), or

Xylosma

spp. (maua) (59 FR 9304; K. Wood, pers. comm., 2001).

The threats to this species include competition from the nonnative plants

Acacia mearnsii

(black wattle),

Erigeron karvinskianus

(daisy fleabane),

Hedychium

spp. (ginger),

Lonicera japonica

(Japanese honeysuckle),

Passiflora tarminiana, Psidium cattleianum,

or

Rubus argutus;

damage from trampling and grazing by feral pigs and deer; vehicle traffic and road maintenance; seasonal dieback; the small number of extant individuals; and restricted distribution (59 FR 9304).

Dubautia pauciflorula

(naenae)

Dubautia pauciflorula,

a member of the aster family (Asteraceae), is a somewhat sprawling shrub or erect small tree with narrowly lance-shaped or elliptic leaves clustered toward the ends of the stems. The tiny, two- to four-flowered heads distinguish this short-lived perennial species from its relatives (Carr 1985, 1999a).

Few details are known about the life history of any

Dubautia

species under natural conditions. Certain species produce viable seed when self-pollinated (self-fertile), although others fail to do so (self-infertile). Low pollinator numbers resulting in reduced cross-pollination and consequently low numbers of viable seeds could explain the small population sizes. Because of their structure and small size, flowers of

D. pauciflorula

are presumably pollinated by small generalist insects, although field observations are lacking. The bristle-like pappus (tuft of appendages that crowns the ovary or fruit) probably represents an adaptation for wind dispersal. Very little is known about the life cycle of this species, including growth rates, longevity of the plants, and number of years the plants remain reproductive (Carr 1985; Service 1994; 56 FR 47695).

Historically and currently, this species is found only on State (including the Lihue-Koloa Forest Reserve) and privately owned lands in the Wahiawa drainage on Kauai. There are four occurrences containing 42 individual plants (GDSI 2000; HINHP Database 2000).

These populations are found in

Metrosideros polymorpha-Dicranopteris linearis

lowland wet forest within stream drainages at elevations between 564 and 1,093 m (1,849 and 3,587 ft). Associated native plant species include

Antidesma platyphyllum, Broussaisia arguta, Cheirodendron

spp.,

Dubautia laxa

(naenae pua melemele),

Embelia pacifica

(kilioe),

Hesperomannia lydgatei, Labordia waialealae

(kamakahala lau lii),

Melicope

spp.,

Nothoperanema rubiginosa

(NCN),

Pritchardia

spp.,

Psychotria

spp.,

Sadleria

spp.,

Scaevola mollis

(naupaka kuahiwi),

Syzygium sandwicensis,

or

Tetraplasandra

spp. (ohe ohe) (K. Wood, pers. comm., 2001).

The threats to this plant include direct competition with nonnative plant species such as

Melastoma candidum

or

Psidium cattleianum,

and potential threats from

Clidemia hirta, Cyathea cooperi, Deparia petersenii, Elephantopus mollis, Erechtites valerianifolia, Melaleuca quinquenervia, Oplismenus hirtellus, Paspalum conjugatum, Paspalum urvillei, Pluchea carolinensis, Rhodomyrtus tomentosa, Rubus rosifolius, Sacciolepis indica, Setaria parviflora, Stachytarpheta australis,

or

Youngia japonica;

trampling by feral pigs; landslides and erosion; restricted distribution; and hurricanes (Service 1994; 56 FR 47695).

Exocarpos luteolus

(heau)

Exocarpos luteolus,

a member of the sandalwood family (Santalaceae), is a moderately to densely branched shrub with knobby branches and leaves that are either minute scales or typical leaves. This short-lived perennial species is distinguished from others of the genus by its generally larger fruit with four indentations and by the color of the receptacle and fruit (Wagner

et al.

1999).

Little is known about the life history of

Exocarpos luteolus.

This species tends to grow at habitat edges where there is adequate light and is likely to be semi-parasitic. Flowering cycles, pollination vectors, seed dispersal agents, longevity, other specific environmental requirements, and limiting factors are unknown (Service 1995).

Historically,

Exocarpos luteolus

was known from three general locations on Kauai: Wahiawa Bog, Kaholuamanu, and Kumuwela Ridge. Currently, there is a total of nine occurrences containing approximately 75 individual plants. This species has a scattered distribution on State (Kuia NAR, Na Pali Coast State Park, Na Pali-Kona Forest Reserve, and Puu Ka Pele Forest Reserve) and privately owned lands and is reported from Pohakuao, the right fork and left fork of Kalalau Valley, Hipalau Valley, Koaie Canyon, Mahanaloa Valley, Kuia Valley, Poopooiki Valley, Nualolo Trail, Makaha Valley, and Haeleele Valley (GDSI 2000; HINHP Database 2000; K. Wood,

in litt.

1999).

This species is found at elevations between 361 and 1,465 m (1,183 and 4,808 ft) in wet places bordering swamps or open bogs and on open, dry ridges in lowland or montane mesic

Acacia koa-Metrosideros polymorpha

-dominated forest communities with

Dicranopteris linearis.

Associated native plant species include

Bobea brevipes, Cheirodendron trigynum, Claoxylon sandwicense, Dianella sandwicensis, Dodonaea viscosa, Dubautia laevigata, Elaeocarpus bifidus, Hedyotis terminalis, Leptecophylla tameiameiae, Melicope haupuensis, Peperomia

spp.,

Pleomele aurea, Poa sandvicensis

(Hawaiian bluegrass),

Pouteria sandwicensis, Psychotria greenwelliae, Psychotria mariniana, Santalum freycinetianum,

or

Schiedea stellarioides

(Service 1995; 59 FR 9304; K. Wood, pers. comm., 2001).

The major threats to this species are feral goats and pigs; competition with the nonnative plants

Acacia mearnsii, Corynocarpus laevigata

(karakanut),

Erigeron karvinskianus, Morella faya

(firetree), or

Rubus argutus;

seed predation by rats; fire; and erosion (Service 1995; 59 FR 9304).

Hedyotis st.-johnii

(Na Pali beach hedyotis)

Hedyotis st.-johnii,

a member of the coffee family (Rubiaceae), is a succulent perennial herb with slightly woody, trailing, quadrangular stems and fleshy leaves clustered towards the base of the

stem. This species is distinguished from related species by its succulence, basally clustered fleshy leaves, shorter floral tube, and large leafy calyx lobes when in fruit (Wagner

et al.

1999).

Little is known about the life history of

Hedyotis st.-johnii.

Flowering cycles, pollination vectors, seed dispersal agents, longevity, specific environmental requirements, and limiting factors are unknown (Service 1995).

Currently, there are a total of eleven occurrences, containing approximately 227 to 292 individuals, on State-owned land in Nualolo Valley, Nualolo Kai, Kaahole Valley, Keawanui, Kawaiula Valley, Milolii Spring, Makaha Point, Polihale Spring, Kalepa Valley, and Nakeikionaiwi Caves within the Na Pali Coast State Park and Puu Ka Pele Forest Reserve (GDSI 2000; HINHP Database 2000).

This plant grows in the crevices of north-facing, near-vertical coastal cliff faces within the spray zone in sparse dry coastal shrubland at elevations between 0 and 187 m (0 and 613 ft). Associated native plant species include

Artemisia australis, Bidens

spp.,

Capparis sandwichiana

(maiapilo),

Chamaesyce celastroides, Eragrostis variabilis, Heteropogon contortus, Lipochaeta connata

(nehe),

Lycium sandwicense

(ohelo kai),

Myoporum sandwicense

(naio),

Nototrichium sandwicense

(kului), or

Schiedea apokremnos

(maolioli) (56 FR 49639; K. Wood, pers. comm., 2001).

The major threats to this species are herbivory and habitat degradation by feral goats; competition from nonnative plant species, especially

Pluchea carolinensis;

landslides; fire; trampling and grazing by cattle (

Bos taurus

); and a risk of extinction due to naturally occurring events, such as landslides or hurricanes, as well as decreased reproductive vigor because of the small population sizes and restricted distribution (Service 1995; 56 FR 49639).

Hesperomannia lydgatei

(NCN)

Hesperomannia lydgatei,

a member of the aster family (Asteraceae) is a sparsely branched, small, long-lived perennial tree 2 to 4 m (6.5 to 13 ft) tall with lance-shaped or elliptic leaves. The flower heads are clustered at the ends of branches and pendant (hanging) when mature. The species is distinguished from other members of this endemic Hawaiian genus by its pendant flower heads, longer and narrower hairless flower stalks, and shorter involucral (floral) bracts (Wagner

et al.

1999).

Almost no mature fruits develop, and it is possible that

Hesperomannia lydgatei

is self-infertile and fails to set seed unless cross-pollinated with other individuals. The flower heads with long, tubular yellow florets suggest pollination by long-tongued insects such as moths or butterflies, although field observation is required to confirm this. Absence of the appropriate pollinator(s) could be responsible for the observed lack of viable seeds. The plume-like hairs crowning the fruit strongly suggests dispersal by wind, as in many members of the aster family. This species grows almost exclusively along streams, however, so dispersal by water currents is also likely. Specific details regarding growth rates, age trees begin flowering in the wild, length of time they remain reproductive, and longevity of the plants are unknown (Service 1994).

Historically,

Hesperomannia lydgatei

was found in the Wahiawa Mountains of Kauai. Currently, this species is known from State (Halelea Forest Reserve) and privately owned lands in the Pali Eleele, Waiole Valley, Wahiawa and Kapalaoa areas. There are four occurrences containing a total of 304 individual plants (GDSI 2000; HINHP Database 2000; K. Wood,

in litt.

1999).

Hesperomannia lydgatei

is found at elevations between 207 and 1,570 m (680 and 5,151 ft) along streambanks and forested slopes in rich brown soil and silty clay in

Metrosideros polymorpha

or

M. polymorpha-Dicranopteris linearis

lowland wet forest. Associated native plant species include

Adenophorus periens

(pendent kihi fern),

Antidesma platyphyllum, Broussaisia arguta, Cheirodendron

spp.,

Cyanea

spp.,

Dubautia knudsenii, Dubautia laxa, Dubautia pauciflorula, Dubautia raillardioides

(naenae),

Elaphoglossum

spp.,

Freycinetia arborea, Hedyotis terminalis, Labordia lydgatei

(kamakahala),

Machaerina angustifolia, Peperomia

spp.,

Pritchardia

spp.,

Psychotria hexandra,

or

Syzygium sandwicensis

(HINHP Database 2000; Service 1994; K. Wood, pers. comm., 2001).

Threats to the species include nonnative plants, feral goats, rats, landslides, and erosion (Service 1994).

Hibiscadelphus woodii

(hau kuahiwi)

Hibiscadelphus woodii,

a member of the mallow family (Malvaceae), is a small branched, long-lived perennial tree with a rounded crown.

Hibiscadelphus woodii

differs from the other Kauai species in the genus by characteristics of the leaf surface and whorled leaves and by bract and flower color (Bates 1999; Lorence and Wagner 1995).

Flowering material has been collected in March, April, and September, but no fruit set has been observed in spite of efforts to manually outcross the flowers. A museum specimen of a flower contains three adult Nitidulidae (sap) beetles, probably an endemic species. The damage by these larvae may be responsible for the observed lack of fruit set in

Hibiscadelphus woodii

(Lorence and Wagner 1995; Service 1998a). No additional life history information for this species is currently known.

Hibiscadelphus woodii

has been found only at the site of its original discovery on State-owned land in the left branch of Kalalau Valley, within the Na Pali Coast State Park on Kauai. Only two trees of this species are currently known (GDSI 2000; HINHP Database 2000; K. Wood,

in litt.

2001).

Hibiscadelphus woodii

is found at elevations between 219 and 1,197 m (717 and 3,926 ft) on basalt talus or cliff walls in

Metrosideros polymorpha

montane mesic forest. These forests contain one or more of the following associated native plant species:

Artemisia australis, Bidens sandvicensis

(kookoolau),

Carex meyenii, Chamaesyce celastroides

var.

hanapepensis

(akoko),

Dubautia

spp.,

Hedyotis

spp.,

Lepidium serra, Lipochaeta

spp. (nehe),

Lobelia niihauensis

(NCN),

Lysimachia glutinosa

(kolokolo kuahiwi),

Melicope pallida

(alani),

Myrsine

spp. (kolea),

Nototrichium

spp. (kului),

Panicum lineale, Poa mannii

(NCN), or

Stenogyne campanulata

(NCN) (HINHP Database 2000; Lorence and Wagner 1995; 61 FR 53070; K. Wood, pers. comm., 2001).

Major threats to

Hibiscadelphus woodii

are habitat degradation by feral goats and pigs; competition from the nonnative plant species

Erigeron karvinskianus

; nectar robbing by the Japanese white-eye (

Zosterops japonicus

), an introduced bird; and a risk of extinction from naturally occurring events (

e.g.

, rock slides), and reduced reproductive vigor due to the small number of existing individuals at the only known site (Lorence and Wagner 1995; 61 FR 53070).

Hibiscus clayi

(Clay's hibiscus)

Hibiscus clayi,

a member of the mallow family (Malvaceae), is a long-lived perennial shrub or small tree. This species is distinguished from other native Hawaiian members of the genus by the lengths of the calyx, calyx lobes, and capsule and by the margins of the leaves (Bates 1999).

Little is known about the life history of

Hibiscus clayi.

Flowering cycles, pollination vectors, seed dispersal agents, longevity, specific

environmental requirements, and limiting factors are unknown (Service 1995).

Historically,

Hibiscus clayi

was known from scattered locations on Kauai: the Kokee region on the western side of the island, Moloaa Valley to the north, Nounou Mountain in Wailua to the east, and as far south as Haiku near Halii Stream. At this time, only one occurrence on State land in the Nounou Mountains, with a total of four individuals, is known to be extant (GDSI 2000; HINHP Database 2000).

Hibiscus clayi

generally grows on slopes at elevations between 9 and 765 m (29 and 2,509 ft) in

Acacia koa

or

Diospyros

spp.

-Pisonia

spp.

-Metrosideros polymorpha

lowland dry or mesic forest with

Artemisia australis, Bidens

spp.,

Cyanea hardyi

(haha),

Gahnia

spp.,

Hedyotis acuminata

(au),

Munroidendron racemosum

(NCN),

Pandanus tectorius

(hala),

Panicum tenuifolium

(mountain pili),

Pipturus

spp.,

Pleomele aurea,

Psychotria

spp., or

Psydrax odorata

(HINHP Database 2000; 59 FR 9304; K. Wood, pers. comm., 2001).

The major threats to this species are herbivory and habitat degradation by feral pigs; competition from the nonnative plant species

Araucaria columnaris

(Norfolk Island pine) and

Psidium cattleianum;

trampling by humans; and a risk of extinction due to naturally occurring events, such as landslides or hurricanes, as well as decreased reproductive vigor because of the small population size and restricted distribution (HINHP Database 2000; 59 FR 9304).

Hibiscus waimeae

ssp.

hannerae

(kokio keokeo)

Hibiscus waimeae

ssp.

hannerae,

a member of the mallow family (Malvaceae), is a gray-barked tree with star-shaped hairs densely covering its leaf and flower stalks and branchlets. The long-lived perennial species is distinguished from others of the genus by the position of the anthers along the staminal column, length of the staminal column relative to the petals, color of the petals, and length of the calyx. Two subspecies, ssp.

hannerae

and ssp.

waimeae,

both endemic to Kauai, are recognized. Subspecies

hannerae

is distinguishable from ssp.

waimeae

by its larger leaves and smaller flowers (Bates 1999).

Little is known about the life history of

Hibiscus waimeae

ssp.

hannerae.

Its flowering cycles, pollination vectors, seed dispersal agents, longevity, specific environmental requirements, and limiting factors are unknown (Service 1998a).

Historically,

Hibiscus waimeae

ssp.

hannerae

was known from Kalihiwai and adjacent valleys, Limahuli Valley, and Hanakapiai Valley. This subspecies is no longer extant at Kalihiwai. Currently, there are two occurrences containing 27 individuals on State (Na Pali Coast State Park) and privately owned lands in Hanakapiai Valley, Limahuli Valley, and Pohakuao (Bates 1999; GDSI 2000; HINHP Database 2000).

Hibiscus waimeae

ssp.

hannerae

grows at elevations between 174 and 1,154 m (570 and 3,787 ft). It is found in

Metrosideros polymorpha-Dicranopteris linearis

or

Pisonia

spp.

-Charpentiera elliptica

(papala) lowland wet or mesic forest with

Antidesma

spp.,

Bidens

spp.,

Bobea

spp.,

Cibotium

spp.,

Cyanea

spp.,

Cyrtandra

spp.,

Perrottetia sandwicensis,

Pipturus

spp.,

Psychotria

spp.,

Sadleria

spp., or

Syzygium sandwicensis

(Bates 1999; HINHP Database 2000; Service 1998a; K. Wood, pers. comm., 2001).

Major threats to

Hibiscus waimeae

ssp.

hannerae

are habitat degradation by feral pigs, competition with nonnative plant species, and a risk of extinction from naturally occurring events (

e.g.

, landslides and hurricanes) and/or reduced reproductive vigor due to the small number of remaining populations (HINHP Database 2000; 61 FR 53070).

Kokia kauaiensis

(kokio)

Kokia kauaiensis,

a member of the mallow family (Malvaceae), is a small tree. This long-lived perennial species is distinguished from others of this endemic Hawaiian genus by the length of the bracts surrounding the flower head, number of lobes and the width of the leaves, the length of the petals, and the length of the hairs on the seeds (Bates 1999).

Little is known about the life history of

Kokia kauaiensis.

Its flowering cycles, pollination vectors, seed dispersal agents, longevity, specific environmental requirements, and limiting factors are unknown (Service 1998a).

Historically,

Kokia kauaiensis

was found as seven scattered occurrences on northwestern Kauai. Currently, there are a total of 21 occurrences with 166 to 171 individuals, found in Pohakuao, the left branch of Kalalau Valley, Paaiki Valley, Kuia Valley, Koaie Canyon, Kipalau Valley, and Kawaiiki Valley, all on State-owned land within Kuia NAR, Na Pali Coast State Park, and Na Pali-Kona Forest Reserve (GDSI 2000; HINHP Database 2000; K. Wood,

in litt.

1999).

Kokia kauaiensis

typically grows in diverse mesic forest at elevations between 215 and 1,049 m (707 and 3,441 ft). Associated native plant species include

Acacia koa, Alyxia oliviformis, Antidesma

spp.,

Bobea

spp.,

Chamaesyce celastroides, Claoxylon sandwicense, Dicranopteris linearis, Diellia pallida, Diospyros hillebrandii, Diospyros sandwicensis, Dodonaea viscosa, Flueggea neowawraea

(mehamehame),

Hedyotis

spp.,

Hibiscus

spp. (aloalo),

Isodendrion laurifolium

(aupaka),

Lipochaeta fauriei

(nehe),

Melicope

spp.,

Metrosideros polymorpha, Nestegis sandwicensis, Nototrichium

spp.,

Pisonia

spp.,

Pleomele aurea, Pouteria sandwicensis, Psydrax odorata, Pteralyxia kauaiensis, Rauvolfia sandwicensis, Santalum freycinetianum

var.

pyrularium

(iliahi),

Streblus pendulinus

(aiai),

Syzygium sandwicensis, Tetraplasandra

spp., or

Xylosma

spp. (Bates 1999; HINHP Database 2000; Service 1998a; K. Wood, pers. comm., 2001).

Competition with and habitat degradation by invasive nonnative plant species, substrate loss from erosion, habitat degradation and browsing by feral goats and deer, and seed predation by rats are the major threats affecting the survival of

Kokia kauaiensis

(HINHP Database 2000; Service 1998a; Wood and Perlman 1993).

Labordia lydgatei

(kamakahala)

Labordia lydgatei,

a member of the logania family (Loganiaceae), is a much-branched perennial shrub or small tree with sparsely hairy, square stems. The small size of the flowers and capsules borne on sessile (attached to the base) inflorescences (a flower cluster) distinguish it from other members of the genus growing in the same area (Wagner

et al.

1999).

Immature fruits were seen on two plants during surveys in 1991 and 1992 by botanists from NTBG, and remnants of old fruiting bodies were seen on another, suggesting that the plants are able to self-fertilize. It is also suspected that the fruits of this species are adapted for bird dispersal. Due to a lack of bird or other native pollinators, pollination may be inhibited. Microhabitat requirements for seed germination and growth may also be extremely specific. Virtually nothing is known about the life history or ecology of this species (Service 1994).

This species was originally known from the Wahiawa drainage, Waioli Stream Valley, and Makaleha Mountains on Kauai.

Labordia lydgatei

is currently known from six occurrences, consisting of 37 individual plants, located on State (Lihue-Koloa and Halelea Forest Reserves) and privately owned lands at Pali Eleele, Waioli Valley, Leleiwi, Lumahai Valley, and Kapalaoa (GDSI

2000; HINHP Database 2000; K. Wood,

in litt.

1999).

Labordia lydgatei

is found on streambanks in

Metrosideros polymorpha-Dicranopteris linearis

lowland wet forest at elevations between 182 and 1,048 m (597 and 3,437 ft). Associated native plant species include

Antidesma platyphyllum

var.

hillebrandii

(hame),

Cyanea

spp.,

Cyrtandra

spp.,

Dubautia knudsenii, Hedyotis terminalis, Ilex anomala, Labordia hirtella

(kamakahala),

Psychotria

spp., or

Syzygium sandwicensis

(HINHP Database 2000; Service 1994; K. Wood, pers. comm., 2001).

Competition from nonnative plants poses the greatest threat to the survival of

Labordia lydgatei

(56 FR 47695). Additional threats include habitat degradation from feral pigs; rats, a potential seed predator; landslides and erosion; reduced germination; and a lack of dispersal or pollination agents (Service 1994).

Labordia tinifolia

var.

wahiawaensis

(kamakahala)

Labordia tinifolia

var.

wahiawaensis,

a member of the logania family (Loganiaceae), is a shrub or small tree with hairless, cylindrical young branches. This long-lived perennial species differs from others of the genus by having a long common flower cluster stalk, hairless young stems and leaf surfaces, transversely wrinkled capsule valves, and length of the corolla lobes. Three varieties of

Labordia tinifolia

are recognized: var.

lanaiensis

on Lanai and Molokai; var.

tinifolia

on Kauai, Oahu, Molokai, Maui, and Hawaii; and var.

wahiawaensis,

endemic to Kauai. The variety

wahiawaensis

is distinguished from the other two by its larger corolla (Wagner

et al.

1999).

Little is known about the life history of

Labordia tinifolia

var.

wahiawaensis.

Its flowering cycles, pollination vectors, seed dispersal agents, longevity, specific environmental requirements, and limiting factors are unknown.

Labordia tinifolia

var.

wahiawaensis

has only been known from one occurrence with a current total of approximately 20 to 30 individual plants on private land in the Wahiawa drainage in the Wahiawa Mountains (GDSI 2000; HINHP Database 2000).

Labordia tinifolia

var.

wahiawaensis

grows along streambanks in lowland wet forests dominated by

Metrosideros polymorpha

at elevations between 458 and 1,006 m (1,502 and 3,301 ft), with

Antidesma platyphyllum, Athyrium microphyllum

(akolea),

Cheirodendron

spp.,

Cyrtandra

spp.,

Dicranopteris linearis, Hedyotis terminalis,

or

Psychotria

spp. (HINHP Database 2000; K. Wood, pers. comm., 2001).

The primary threats to the remaining individuals of

Labordia tinifolia

var.

wahiawaensis

are competition with nonnative plants, habitat degradation by feral pigs, trampling by humans, and a risk of extinction from catastrophic random events or reduced reproductive vigor due to the small number of individuals in a single population (61 FR 53070).

Lipochaeta fauriei

(nehe)

Lipochaeta fauriei,

a member of the aster family (Asteraceae), is a perennial herb with somewhat woody, erect or climbing stems. This short-lived perennial species differs from other species on Kauai by having a greater number of disk and ray flowers per flower head, longer ray flowers, and longer leaves and leaf stalks (Gardner 1976, 1979; Service 1995; Wagner

et al.

1985, 1990).

Little is known about the life history of

Lipochaeta fauriei.

Flowering cycles, pollination vectors, seed dispersal agents, longevity, specific environmental requirements, and limiting factors are unknown (Service 1995).

Historically and currently,

Lipochaeta fauriei

is known from Olokele Canyon on Kauai. This species is now found on State-owned land in Poopooiki Valley, Kuia Valley, Haeleele Valley, and Kawaiiki Valley within Kuia NAR, Na Pali-Kona Forest Reserve, and Puu Ka Pele Forest Reserve. Currently there is a total of five occurrences with 82 individuals. An occurrence in Koaie Canyon previously thought to be

L. fauriei

was later identified as

Melanthera subcordata

(nehe) (Gardner 1979; GDSI 2000; HINHP Database 2000; Service 1995; K. Wood,

in litt.

1999).

This species grows most often in moderate shade to full sun and is usually found on the sides of steep gulches in diverse lowland mesic forests at elevations between 436 and 947 m (1,432 and 3,108 ft). Associated native plant species include

Acacia koa, Carex meyenii, Carex wahuensis, Dicranopteris linearis, Diospyros

spp.,

Dodonaea viscosa, Euphorbia haeleeleana, Hibiscus waimeae, Kokia kauaiensis, Myrsine lanaiensis, Nestegis sandwicensis, Pleomele aurea, Psychotria greenwelliae, Psychotria mariniana,

or

Sapindus oahuensis

(lonomea) (HINHP Database 2000; K. Wood, pers. comm., 2001).

Major threats to

Lipochaeta fauriei

are predation and habitat degradation by feral goats and pigs and competition with invasive nonnative plants. Fire is also a significant threat to

L. fauriei

due to the invasion of

Melinis minutiflora,

a fire-adapted grass that creates unnaturally high fuel loads. The small total number of individuals makes the species susceptible to extinction from naturally occurring events, such as landslides or hurricanes, and/or reduced reproductive vigor (HINHP Database 2000; Service 1995; 59 FR 9304).

Lipochaeta micrantha

(nehe)

Lipochaeta micrantha,

a member of the aster family (Asteraceae), is a somewhat woody short-lived perennial herb. The small number of disk flowers separates this species from the other members of the genus on the island of Kauai. The two recognized varieties of this species, var.

exigua

and var.

micrantha,

are distinguished by differences in leaf length and width, degree of leaf dissection, and the length of the ray florets (Gardner 1976, 1979; Wagner

et al.

1990).

Little is known about the life histories of

Lipochaeta micrantha

var.

exigua

and

L. m.

var.

micrantha.

Flowering cycles, pollination vectors, seed dispersal agents, longevity, specific environmental requirements, and limiting factors are unknown (Service 1995).

Historically,

Lipochaeta micrantha

var.

exigua

was only known from the Haupu Range on Kauai. Currently, five occurrences of

L. micrantha

var.

exigua,

with a total of 110 individuals, are known from privately owned land in the vicinity of Haupu Range and southwest of Hokunui summit. Historically,

L. micrantha

var.

micrantha

was known from Olokele Canyon, Hanapepe Valley, and the Koloa District on Kauai. Currently, this variety is only known from five occurrences totaling 121 individuals on State land within the Na Pali-Kona Forest Reserve in Koaie Canyon and Kawaiiki Valley (GDSI 2000; HINHP Database 2000).

Lipochaeta micrantha

grows on cliffs, ridges, streambanks, or slopes in mesic to wet mixed communities at elevations between 35 and 1,362 m (115 and 4,468 ft). Associated species include

Acacia koa, Antidesma

spp.,

Artemisia australis, Bidens sandvicensis, Bobea

spp.,

Chamaesyce celastroides

var.

hanapepensis, Diospyros

spp.,

Dodonaea viscosa, Eragrostis grandis, Eragrostis variabilis, Hibiscus kokio, Lepidium bidentatum

(anaunau),

Lobelia niihauensis, Melicope

spp.,

Metrosideros polymorpha, Neraudia kauaiensis

(NCN),

Nototrichium

spp.,

Pipturus

spp.,

Plectranthus parviflorus

(ala ala wai nui),

Pleomele aurea, Psydrax odorata, Rumex albescens

(huahuako),

Sida fallax,

or

Xylosma

hawaiiense

(maua) (HINHP Database 2000; Service 1995; K. Wood, pers. comm., 2001).

The major threats to both varieties of

Lipochaeta micrantha

are habitat degradation by feral pigs and goats and competition with nonnative plant species such as

Erigeron karvinskianus, Lantana camara, Pluchea carolinensis,

or

Stachytarpheta australis.

The species is also threatened by extinction from naturally occurring events, such as landslides or hurricanes, and/or reduced reproductive vigor due to the small number of existing populations (HINHP Database 2000; Lorence and Flynn 1991; Service 1995).

Lipochaeta waimeaensis

(nehe)

Lipochaeta waimeaensis,

a member of the aster family (Asteraceae), is a low growing, somewhat woody, short-lived perennial herb. This species is distinguished from other

Lipochaeta

species on Kauai by leaf shape and the presence of shorter leaf stalks and ray florets (Gardner 1976, 1979; Wagner

et al.

1990).

Little is known about the life history of

Lipochaeta waimeaensis.

Flowering cycles, pollination vectors, seed dispersal agents, longevity, specific environmental requirements, and limiting factors are unknown (Service 1995).

Lipochaeta waimeaensis

has been known only from the original site of discovery along the rim of Kauai's Waimea Canyon on State-owned land. There are no more than 100 individuals (GDSI 2000; HINHP Database 2000).

This species grows on eroded soil on a precipitous, shrub-covered gulch in a diverse lowland forest at elevations between 44 and 460 m (145 and 1,509 ft) with

Artemisia australis, Chamaesyce celastroides, Dodonaea viscosa, Lipochaeta connata, Panicum

spp. (NCN),

Santalum freycinetianum,

or

Schiedea spergulina

(NCN) (HINHP Database 2000; Wagner

et al.

1999; K. Wood, pers. comm., 2001).

The major threats to

Lipochaeta waimeaensis

are competition from nonnative plants and habitat destruction by feral goats, whose presence exacerbates the existing soil erosion problem at the site. The single occurrence, and thus the entire species, is threatened by extinction from naturally occurring events, such as landslides or hurricanes, and/or reduced reproductive vigor due to the small number of existing individuals (59 FR 9304).

Melicope haupuensis

(alani)

Melicope haupuensis,

a member of the rue family (Rutaceae), is a small long-lived perennial tree. Unlike other species of this genus on Kauai, the exocarp (outermost layer of a fruit) and endocarp (innermost layer of a fruit) are hairless and the sepals are covered with dense hairs (Stone

et al.

1999).

Little is known about the life history of

Melicope haupuensis.

Flowering cycles, pollination vectors, seed dispersal agents, longevity, specific environmental requirements, and limiting factors are unknown (Service 1995).

For 62 years,

Melicope haupuensis

was known only from the site of its original discovery on the north side of Haupu Ridge on Kauai. This occurrence is now gone. The species is now known from four occurrences with a total of 13 individuals on State-owned land within the Alakai Wilderness Preserve, Na Pali Coast State Park, and Na Pali-Kona Forest Reserve in Kalahu, Awaawapuhi Valley, and Koaie Canyon (GDSI 2000; HINHP Database 2000; K. Wood,

in litt.

1999).

Melicope haupuensis

grows on moist talus slopes in

Metrosideros polymorpha

-dominated lowland mesic forests or

M. polymorpha-Acacia koa

montane mesic forest at elevations between 111 and 1,249 m (364 and 4,097 ft). Associated native plant species include

Antidesma platyphyllum

var.

hillebrandii, Bobea brevipes, Cheirodendron trigynum, Claoxylon sandwicense, Cryptocarya mannii

(holio),

Dianella sandwicensis

(ukiuki),

Diospyros hillebrandii, Diospyros sandwicensis, Dodonaea viscosa, Elaeocarpus bifidus, Hedyotis terminalis, Melicope anisata, M. barbigera

(uahiapele),

M. ovata

(alani),

Pleomele aurea, Pouteria sandwicensis, Pritchardia minor

(loulu),

Psychotria greenwelliae, Psychotria mariniana, Tetraplasandra waimeae

(ohekikoola), or

Zanthoxylum dipetalum

(HINHP Database 2000; K. Wood, pers. comm., 2001).

Habitat degradation by feral goats and competition with invasive nonnative plant species are the major threats to

Melicope haupuensis.

In addition, this species may be susceptible to the black twig borer (

Xylosandrus compactus

). The existence of only 13 known trees constitutes an extreme threat of extinction from naturally occurring events, such as landslides or hurricanes, or reduced reproductive vigor (Hara and Beardsley 1979; HINHP Database 2000; Medeiros

et al.

1986; 59 FR 9304).

Melicope quadrangularis

(alani)

Melicope quadrangularis,

a member of the rue family (Rutaceae), is a shrub or small tree. Young branches are generally covered with fine yellow fuzz but become hairless with age. This species differs from others in the genus in having the following combination of characters: oppositely arranged leaves, only one or two flowers per cluster, cube-shaped capsules with fused lobes, and a deep central depression at the top of the fruit (Stone

et al.

1999).

Little is known about the life history of

Melicope quadrangularis.

Flowering cycles, pollination vectors, seed dispersal agents, longevity, specific environmental requirements, and limiting factors are unknown (Service 1995).

Melicope quadrangularis

is known from the type locality in the Wahiawa Bog region of Kauai. One adult plant and two seedlings were discovered in 1991 by Ken Wood of NTBG on an east-facing slope of Wahiawa Ridge at 853 m (2,800 ft) on privately owned land. Subsequent exploration resulted in the location of a total of 13 individuals of this species. Although a survey after hurricane Iniki in 1992 did not relocate any individuals, it is hoped that there is a seed bank or that undiscovered individuals remain to be found (Stone

et al.

1999).

Melicope quadrangularis

grows in

Metrosideros polymorpha

diverse lowland wet forest that ranges from mesic to wet conditions at elevations between 608 and 1,593 m (1,995 and 5,228 ft). Associated native plant species include

Antidesma platyphyllum, Broussaisia arguta, Cheirodendron fauriei

(olapa),

Cibotium nealiae

(hapuu),

Cyrtandra pickeringii

(haiwale),

Dicranopteris linearis, Machaerina angustifolia, Machaerina mariscoides

(ahaniu), other

Melicope

spp.,

Metrosideros waialealae

(NCN),

Psychotria hexandra, P. mariniana, P. wawrae

(kopiko),

Sadleria pallida, Scaevola gaudichaudiana

(naupaka kuahiwi), or

Syzygium sandwicensis

(K. Wood, pers. comm., 2001).

This species is threatened by nonnative plants and habitat disturbance by feral pigs; over-collecting for scientific purposes; extinction from naturally occurring events, such as landslides or hurricanes; and/or reduced reproductive vigor due to the dearth of individuals (Service 1994).

Munroidendron racemosum

(NCN)

Munroidendron racemosum,

a member of the ginseng family (Araliaceae), is a small tree with a straight gray trunk crowned with spreading branches. This long-lived perennial species is the only member of a genus endemic to Hawaii. The genus is distinguished from other closely related Hawaiian genera of the family by

its distinct flower clusters and corolla (Constance and Affolter 1999).

Reproduction occurs year-round, with flowers and fruits found throughout the year. Self-pollination is assumed to occur since viable seeds have been produced by isolated individuals. Pollinators have not been observed, but insect pollination is likely. Dispersal mechanisms are unknown (Service 1995).

Historically,

Munroidendron racemosum

was known from scattered locations throughout the island of Kauai. Occurrences are now known from Waiahuakua, Pohakuao, the left and right branches of Kalalau Valley, Nakeikionaiwi Valley, Awaawapuhi Valley spring, Honopu Valley, Nualolo Valley, Poomau Valley, Kawaiiki Valley, Koaie Canyon, Nonou, Haupu, and Keopaweo. There are currently 17 known occurrences with approximately 59 to 99 individuals on State (Hono o Na Pali NAR, Na Pali Coast State Park, Na Pali-Kona Forest Reserve, Nonou Forest Reserve, and Puu Ka Pele Forest Reserve) and privately owned lands (GDSI 2000; HINHP Database 2000).

Munroidendron racemosum

is typically found on steep exposed cliffs or on ridge slopes in coastal to lowland mesic forests at elevations between 6 and 979 m (19 and 3,213 ft). Associated plant species include

Bobea brevipes, Brighamia insignis, Canavalia napaliensis

(awikiwiki),

Diospyros hillebrandii, Diospyros sandwicensis, Nestegis sandwicensis, Pisonia sandwicensis

(aulu),

Pisonia umbellifera

(papala kepau),

Pleomele aurea, Pouteria sandwicensis, Psychotria

spp.,

Psydrax odorata, Rauvolfia sandwicensis, Schiedea

spp. (NCN),

Sida fallax,

or

Tetraplasandra

spp. (Gagne and Cuddihy 1999; HINHP Database 2000; 59 FR 9304; K. Wood, pers. comm., 2001).

The threats to

Munroidendron racemosum

are competition with nonnative plant species, such as

Aleurites moluccana, Lantana camara, Leucaena leucocephala

(koa haole), or

Psidium guajava;

habitat degradation by feral goats and fruit predation by rats; introduced insects of the long-horned beetle family (Cerambycidae); fire; extinction from naturally occurring events, such as landslides or hurricanes; and reduced reproductive vigor (HINHP Database 2000; Service 1995; 59 FR 9304).

Myrsine linearifolia

(kolea)

Myrsine linearifolia,

a member of the myrsine family (Myrsinaceae), is a branched shrub. This long-lived perennial species is distinguished from others of the genus by the shape, length, and width of the leaves, length of the petals, and number of flowers per cluster (Wagner

et al.

1999).

Little is known about the life history of

Myrsine linearifolia.

Its flowering cycles, pollination vectors, seed dispersal agents, longevity, specific environmental requirements, and limiting factors are unknown (Service 1998a).

Historically,

Myrsine linearifolia

was found at scattered locations on Kauai: Olokele Valley, Kalualea, Kalalau Valley, Kahuamaa Flat, Limahuli-Hanakapiai Ridge, Koaie Stream, Pohakuao, Namolokama summit plateau, and Haupu. There are currently 12 occurrences with approximately 490 to 564 individuals on State (Alakai Wilderness Preserve and Na Pali Coast State Park) and privately owned lands. The populations are found in Limahuli Valley, Alealau, the left branch of Kalalau Valley, Puu O Kila, Koaie Canyon, Namolokama, and Kapalaoa (GDSI 2000; HINHP Database 2000; K. Wood,

in litt.

1999).

Myrsine linearifolia

typically grows at elevations between 105 and 1,380 m (346 and 4,526 ft) in diverse mesic or wet lowland or montane

Metrosideros polymorpha

forest with

Cheirodendron

spp. or

Dicranopteris linearis

as co-dominant species. Plants growing in association with this species include

Bobea brevipes, Cryptocarya mannii, Dubautia

spp.,

Eurya sandwicensis

(anini),

Freycinetia arborea, Hedyotis terminalis, Lysimachia glutinosa, Machaerina angustifolia, Melicope

spp.,

Myrsine

spp.,

Nothocestrum spp. (aiea), Psychotria spp., Sadleria pallida

, or

Syzygium sandwicensis

(HINHP Database 2000; 61 FR 53070; K. Wood, pers. comm., 2001).

Competition with nonnative plants, such as

Erigeron karvinskianus, Kalanchoe pinnata

(air plant),

Lantana camara, Psidium cattleianum, Rubus argutus,

and

Rubus rosifolius

and habitat degradation by feral pigs and goats are the major threats to

Myrsine linearifolia

(61 FR 53070).

Nothocestrum peltatum

(aiea)

Nothocestrum peltatum,

a member of the nightshade family (Solanaceae), is a small tree with ash-brown bark and woolly stems. The usually peltate (leaf stem attached to the center) leaves and shorter leaf stalks separate this species from others in the genus (Symon 1999).

Although plants of this long-lived perennial species have been observed flowering, they rarely set fruit. This could be the result of a loss of pollinators, reduced genetic variability, or an inability to fertilize itself. Little else is known about the life history of

Nothocestrum peltatum.

Flowering cycles, pollination vectors, seed dispersal agents, longevity, specific environmental requirements, and limiting factors are unknown (59 FR 9304).

Historically,

Nothocestrum peltatum

was known from Kauai at Kumuwela, Kaholuamanu, and the region of Nualolo. This species is now known from a total of 10 occurrences with 20 individuals, located at Kahuamaa Flats, Awaawapuhi Trail, Awaawapuhi Valley, Kawaiula Valley, and Makaha Valley on State-owned land within the Kokee State Park, Kuia NAR, Na Pali Coast State Park, Na Pali-Kona Forest Reserve, and Puu Ka Pele Forest Reserve (GDSI 2000; HINHP Database 2000; K. Wood,

in litt.

1999).

This species generally grows in rich soil on steep slopes in mesic or wet forest dominated by

Acacia koa

or a mixture of

A. koa

and

Metrosideros polymorpha,

at elevations between 581 and 1,290 m (1,906 and 4,232 ft). Associated native plants include

Alphitonia ponderosa, Antidesma

spp.,

Bobea brevipes, Broussaisia arguta, Cheirodendron trigynum, Claoxylon sandwicense, Coprosma

spp.,

Cryptocarya mannii, Dianella sandwicensis, Dicranopteris linearis, Diplazium sandwichianum, Dodonaea viscosa, Elaeocarpus bifidus, Hedyotis terminalis, Ilex anomala, Melicope anisata, M. barbigera, M. haupuensis, Perrottetia sandwicensis, Pleomele aurea, Pouteria sandwicensis, Psychotria greenwelliae, Psychotria mariniana, Tetraplasandra kavaiensis,

or

Xylosma

spp. (HINHP Database 2000; K. Wood, pers. comm., 2001).

Competition with nonnative plants (such as

Erigeron karvinskianus, Lantana camara, Passiflora tarminiana,

or

Rubus argutus

), and habitat degradation by feral pigs, deer, and red jungle fowl (

Gallus gallus

) constitute the major threats to

Nothocestrum peltatum.

This species is also threatened by fire, risk of extinction from naturally occurring events (

e.g.,

landslides or hurricanes), and reduced reproductive vigor due to the small number of existing individuals (HINHP Database 2000; 59 FR 9304).

Panicum niihauense

(lau ehu)

Panicum niihauense,

a member of the grass family (Poaceae), is a perennial bunchgrass with unbranched culms (aerial stems). This short-lived perennial species is distinguished from others in the genus by the erect inflorescence branches and the densely clustered spikelets (Davidse 1999).

Little is known about the life history of this species. Reproductive cycles,

longevity, specific environmental requirements, and limiting factors are unknown (Service 1999).

Panicum niihauense

was known historically from Niihau and one location on Kauai. Currently, this species is only known from one occurrence of 23 individuals at the Polihale State Park area of Kauai on State-owned land (GDSI 2000; HINHP Database 2000).

Panicum niihauense

is found scattered in sand dunes in coastal shrubland at elevations between 0 and 103 m (0 and 337 ft). Associated native plant species include

Cassytha filiformis

(kaunaoa pehu),

Chamaesyce celastroides, Dodonaea viscosa, Nama sandwicensis

(hinahina kahakai),

Ophioglossum pendulum

ssp.

falcatum

(puapua moa),

Scaevola sericea

(naupaka kahakai),

Sida fallax, Sporobolus virginicus

(akiaki), or

Vitex rotundifolia

(kolokolo kahakai) (HINHP Database 2000; K. Wood, pers. comm., 2001).

Primary threats to

Panicum niihauense

are destruction by off-road vehicles, competition with nonnative plant species, and a risk of extinction from naturally occurring events (

e.g.

, landslides or hurricanes) and reduced reproductive vigor due to the small number of individuals in the one remaining population (HINHP Database 2000; 61 FR 53108).

Phyllostegia knudsenii

(NCN)

Phyllostegia knudsenii,

a nonaromatic member of the mint family (Lamiaceae), is an erect herb or vine. This short-lived perennial species is distinguished from others in the genus by its specialized flower stalk; it differs from the closely related

P. floribunda

by often having four flowers per group (Wagner

et al.

1999).

Little is known about the life history of

Phyllostegia knudsenii.

Its flowering cycles, pollination vectors, seed dispersal agents, longevity, specific environmental requirements, and limiting factors are unknown (Service 1998a).

Until 1993,

Phyllostegia knudsenii

was only known from the site of its original discovery made in the 1800s from the woods of Waimea on Kauai. There is currently one known occurrence with a total of 4 to13 individuals on State-owned land in Koaie Canyon within the Alakai Wilderness Preserve (GDSI 2000; HINHP Database 2000; Wagner

et al.

1999; K. Wood,

in litt.

1999).

Phyllostegia knudsenii

is found in

Metrosideros polymorpha

lowland mesic or wet forest at elevations between 399 and 1,059 m (1,309 and 3,475 ft). Associated native plant species include

Bobea timonioides

(ahakea),

Claoxylon sandwicense, Cryptocarya mannii, Cyrtandra kauaiensis, Cyrtandra paludosa

(moa),

Diospyros sandwicensis, Elaeocarpus bifidus, Ilex anomala, Myrsine linearifolia, Perrottetia sandwicensis, Pittosporum kauaiense

(hoawa),

Pouteria sandwicensis, Pritchardia minor, Selaginella arbuscula

(lepelepeamoa),

Tetraplasandra oahuensis

(ohe mauka), or

Zanthoxylum dipetalum

(61 FR 53070; K. Wood, pers. comm., 2001).

Major threats to

Phyllostegia knudsenii

include habitat degradation by feral pigs and goats, competition with nonnative plants, and a risk of extinction from naturally occurring events (

e.g.

, landslides and hurricanes) and reduced reproductive vigor due to the small number of individuals in the only known population (61 FR 53070; Service 1998a).

Phyllostegia waimeae

(NCN)

Phyllostegia waimeae,

a nonaromatic member of the mint family (Lamiaceae), is a climbing perennial plant. Characteristics that distinguish this species from others in the genus are the nearly stalkless bracts that partially overlap and cover the flowers, and relatively fewer oil glands on the leaves (Wagner

et al.

1999).

Little is known about the life history of

Phyllostegia waimeae.

Flowering cycles, pollination vectors, seed dispersal agents, longevity, specific environmental requirements, and limiting factors are unknown Service 1995).

Historically,

Phyllostegia waimeae

was known from Kaholuamanu and Kaaha on Kauai. Currently, one occurrence with six individuals persists on State land in Kawaiiki Valley within the Na Pali-Kona Forest Reserve (K. Wood,

in litt.

2001).

This species typically grows in

Acacia koa-Metrosideros polymorpha

dominated wet or mixed mesic forest with

Cheirodendron

spp. or

Dicranopteris linearis

as co-dominants at elevations between 655 and 1,224 m (2,149 and 4,016 ft). Associated native plant species include

Broussaisia arguta, Claoxylon sandwicense, Diplazium sandwichianum, Dubautia knudsenii, Elaphoglossum

spp.,

Gunnera kauaiensis, Hedyotis

spp.,

Myrsine lanaiensis, Pleomele aurea, Psychotria

spp.,

Sadleria

spp.,

Scaevola procera

(naupaka kuahiwi),

Syzygium sandwicensis,

or

Vaccinium

spp. (K. Wood, pers. comm., 2001).

Habitat destruction by feral goats, erosion, and competition with introduced grasses are the major threats to

Phyllostegia waimeae.

The species is also threatened by over-collecting for scientific purposes; extinction from naturally occurring events, such as hurricanes; and/or reduced reproductive vigor due to the small number of existing individuals (Service 1995).

Phyllostegia wawrana

(NCN)

Phyllostegia wawrana,

a nonaromatic member of the mint family (Lamiaceae), is a perennial vine that is woody toward the base and has long, crinkly hairs along the stem. This short-lived perennial species can be distinguished from the related

P. floribunda

and

P. knudsenii

by its less specialized flower stalk (Wagner

et al.

1999).

Seeds were observed in the wild in August 1993. No additional life history information for this species is currently known (Service 1998a).

Phyllostegia wawrana

was reported to be found at Hanalei on Kauai in the 1800s and along Kokee Stream in 1926. Currently, four occurrences with approximately 34 to 54 individuals are reported from Koaie Canyon, Moaalele, Awaawapuhi Valley, and Makaleha on State-owned land within the Alakai Wilderness Preserve, Hono o Na Pali NAR, and Kokee State Park (GDSI 2000; HINHP Database 2000).

This species grows at elevations between 398 and 1,284 m (1,306 and 4,212 ft) in

Acacia koa-Metrosideros polymorpha-Cheirodendron

mixed mesic forest. Associated native plant species include

Alectryon macrococcus, Asplenium polyodon , Athyrium microphyllum, Carex

spp.,

Claoxylon sandwicense, Cyanea fissa

(haha),

Delissea rivularis, Dianella sandwicensis, Diplazium sandwichianum, Dodonaea viscosa, Doodia kunthiana, Dryopteris wallichiana, Dubautia knudsenii, Dubautia laevigata, Hedyotis tryblium, Machaerina angustifolia, Panicum nephelophilum, Peperomia

spp.,

Perrottetia sandwicensis, Pleomele aurea, Poa sandvicensis, Pteridium aquilinum

var.

decompositum, Sadleria pallida, Scaevola procera, Schiedea stellarioides, Syzygium sandwicensis, Touchardia latifolia,

or

Vaccinium dentatum

(HINHP Database 2000; 61 FR 53070; K. Wood, pers. comm., 2001).

Major threats to

Phyllostegia wawrana

include habitat degradation by feral pigs and competition with nonnative plant species, such as

Erechtites valerianifolia, Erigeron karvinskianus, Melastoma candidum, Passiflora tarminiana, Rubus argutus,

and

Rubus rosifolius

(61 FR 53070; Service 1998a).

Poa mannii

(Mann's bluegrass)

Poa mannii,

a member of the grass family (Poaceae), is a perennial grass with short rhizomes (underground stems) and erect, tufted culms. All three native species of

Poa

in the Hawaiian Islands are endemic to the island of Kauai.

Poa mannii

is distinguished from both

P. siphonoglossa

and

P. sandvicensis

by its fringed ligule (an appendage on the leaf sheath) and from

P. sandvicensis

by its shorter panicle (a flower cluster) branches (O'Connor 1999).

Little is known about the life history of

Poa mannii.

Flowering cycles, pollination vectors, longevity, specific environmental requirements, and limiting factors are unknown (Service 1995).

Historically, this species was found in Olokele Gulch on Kauai. Currently, there is a total of six occurrences with approximately 268 individuals on State-owned land in the right and left branches of Kalalau Valley, Awaawapuhi Valley, Kuia Valley, and Kauhao Valley within the Kuia NAR, Na Pali Coast State Park, Na Pali-Kona Forest Reserve, and Waimea Canyon State Park (GDSI 2000; HINHP Database 2000; O'Connor 1999; K. Wood,

in litt.

1999).

This species typically grows on cliffs or rock faces in lowland or montane mesic

Metrosideros polymorpha

or

Acacia koa-M. polymorpha

forest at elevations between 327 and 1,222 m (1,072 and 4,009 ft). Associated native plant species include

Antidesma platyphyllum, Artemisia australis, Bidens cosmoides, Bidens sandvicensis, Carex meyenii, Carex wahuensis, Chamaesyce celastroides

var.

hanapepensis, Cyperus phleoides

(NCN),

Diospyros sandwicensis, Dodonaea viscosa, Eragrostis variabilis, Hedyotis terminalis, Lobelia niihauensis, Lobelia yuccoides

(panaunau),

Luzula hawaiiensis

(wood rush),

Melicope anisata, M. barbigera, M. pallida, Nototrichium

spp.,

Panicum lineale, Pleomele aurea, Pouteria sandwicensis, Psychotria greenwelliae, Psychotria mariniana, Schiedea

spp., or

Wilkesia gymnoxiphium

(HINHP Database 2000; 59 FR 56330; K. Wood, pers. comm., 2001).

Poa mannii

survives only in very steep areas that are inaccessible to goats, suggesting that goat herbivory may have eliminated this species from more accessible locations, as is the case for other rare plants from northwestern Kauai. Threats to

P. mannii

include habitat damage, trampling, and browsing by feral goats, and competition with invasive nonnative plants.

Erigeron karvinskianus

has invaded Kalalau, Koaie, and Waialae Valleys, three of the areas where

P. mannii

occurs.

Lantana camara

threatens all known populations, and

Rubus argutus

threatens the populations in Kalalau and Waialae Valleys.

Poa mannii

is also threatened by fire and reduced reproductive vigor and/or extinction from naturally occurring events, such as landslides or hurricanes, due to the small number of existing populations and individuals (59 FR 56330).

Poa sandvicensis

(Hawaiian bluegrass)

Poa sandvicensis

is a perennial grass (Poaceae) with densely tufted, mostly erect culms. It is distinguished from closely related species by its shorter rhizomes and culms which do not become rush-like with age, closed and fused sheaths, relatively even-edged ligules, and longer panicle branches (O'Connor 1999).

Little is known about the life history of

Poa sandvicensis.

Flowering cycles, pollination vectors, seed dispersal agents, longevity, specific environmental requirements, and limiting factors are unknown (Service 1995).

Historically, this species was known from the following areas on the island of Kauai: the rim of Kalalau Valley; Halemanu Ridge, Kumuwela Ridge, and Kauaikanana drainage; Awaawapuhi Trail; Kohua Ridge/Mohihi drainage; and Kaholuamanu. Hillebrand's (1888) reference to a Maui locality is most likely an error. Currently, there is a total of nine occurrences with 1,321 individuals on State-owned land.

Poa sandvicensis

is known to be extant at Alealau, Keanapuka, Awaawapuhi Trail, Kumuwela Ridge, Maile Flat Trail, Mohihi Stream, Mohihi-Waialae Trail, Kawaiiki Valley, and Waialae Valley in the Alakai Wilderness Preserve, Hono o Na Pali NAR, Kokee State Park, Na Pali Coast State Park, and Na Pali-Kona Forest Reserve (GDSI 2000; HINHP Database 2000; 57 FR 20580; K. Wood,

in litt.

1999).

Poa sandvicensis

grows on wet, shaded, gentle to steep slopes, ridges, and rock ledges of streambanks in semi-open to closed, wet, diverse

Acacia koa-Metrosideros polymorpha

montane forest, at elevations between 473 and 1,290 m (1,553 and 4,232 ft). Associated native plant species include

Alyxia oliviformis, Bidens sandvicensis, Cheirodendron

spp.,

Claoxylon sandwicense, Coprosma

spp.,

Dianella sandwicensis, Dicranopteris linearis, Dodonaea viscosa, Dubautia

spp.,

Hedyotis

spp.,

Melicope

spp.,

Peperomia

spp.,

Psychotria

spp.,

Scaevola procera, Schiedea stellarioides,

or

Syzygium sandwicensis

(HINHP Database 2000; 57 FR 20580; K. Wood, pers. comm., 2001).

The greatest immediate threats to the survival of

Poa sandvicensis

are competition from nonnative plants, such as

Erigeron karvinskianus, Hedychium

spp.,

Passiflora tarminiana,

or

Rubus argutus;

erosion caused by feral pigs and goats; and State Forest Reserve trail maintenance activities and human recreation. In addition, naturally occurring events, such as landslides and hurricanes, constitute a threat of extinction or reduced reproductive vigor due to the species' small population size (Service 1995; 57 FR 20580).

Poa siphonoglossa

(NCN)

Poa siphonoglossa

is a perennial grass (Poaceae) with extensive tufted and flattened culms that cascade from banks in masses. It differs from related species by its longer culms and lack of a prominent tooth on the ligule. In addition, its shorter panicle branches distinguish it from

P. sandvicensis,

and its short rhizomes and closed and fused sheaths separate it from

P. mannii

(O'Connor 1999).

Little is known about the life history of

Poa siphonoglossa.

Flowering cycles, pollination vectors, seed dispersal agents, longevity, specific environmental requirements, and limiting factors are unknown (Service 1995).

Historically,

Poa siphonoglossa

was known from five sites on the island of Kauai: Kohua Ridge, near Kaholuamanu, Kaulaula Valley, Kuia Valley, and Kalalau. Currently, there are a total of five occurrences with a total of 50 individuals on State-owned land at Kahuamaa Flats, Mohihi-Waialae Trail, Kuia Valley, Makaha Ridge, and Kaulaula Valley in the Alakai Wilderness Preserve, Kuia NAR, Na Pali Coast State Park, Na Pali-Kona Forest Reserve, and Puu Ka Pele Forest Reserve (GDSI 2000; HINHP Database 2000; K. Wood,

in litt.

1999).

Poa siphonoglossa

typically grows on shady banks on steep slopes in mesic

Metrosideros polymorpha-Acacia koa

forests at elevations between about 480 and 1,296 m (1,573 and 4,251 ft). Associated native plant species include

Alphitonia ponderosa, Alyxia oliviformis, Bobea brevipes, Carex meyenii, Carex wahuensis, Coprosma waimeae, Dianella sandwicensis, Dodonaea viscosa, Dubautia

spp.,

Hedyotis

spp.,

Leptecophylla tameiameiae, Lobelia yuccoides, Melicope

spp.,

Microlepia strigosa, Myrsine

spp.,

Panicum nephelophilum, Poa sandvicensis, Psychotria

spp.,

Scaevola procera, Tetraplasandra

kavaiensis, Vaccinium

spp.,

Wilkesia gymnoxiphium, Xylosma

spp., or

Zanthoxylum dipetalum

(57 FR 20580; K. Wood, pers. comm., 2001).

The primary threat to the survival of

Poa siphonoglossa

is habitat degradation and/or herbivory by feral pigs and deer. The nonnative plant

Rubus argutus

invading Kohua Ridge constitutes a probable threat to that population. Small population size and the potential for one disturbance event to destroy the majority of known individuals are also serious threats to this species (HINHP Database 2000; Service 1995; 57 FR 20580).

Pritchardia aylmer-robinsonii

(wahane)

Pritchardia aylmer-robinsonii,

a member of the palm family (Arecaceae) is a fan-leaved tree about 7 to 15 m (23 to 50 ft) tall. This species is distinguished from others of the genus by the thin leaf texture and drooping leaf segments, tan woolly hairs on the underside of the petiole and the leaf blade base, stout hairless flower clusters that do not extend beyond the fan-shaped leaves, and the smaller spherical fruit (Read and Hodel 1999).

Little is known about the life history of

Pritchardia aylmer-robinsonii.

Its flowering cycles, pollination vectors, seed dispersal agents, longevity, specific environmental requirements, and limiting factors are unknown (61 FR 41020).

Historically,

Pritchardia aylmer-robinsonii

was found at three sites in the eastern and central portions of the island of Niihau. Trees were found on Kaali Cliff and in Mokouia and Haao Valleys at elevations between 70 and 270 m (230 and 885 ft) on privately owned land. The most recent observations indicate that two plants still remain on Kaali Cliff (GDSI 2000; HINHP Database 2000; Read and Hodel 1999).

Pritchardia aylmer-robinsonii

typically grows on rocky talus in seepage areas within coastal dry forest at elevations between 91 to 259 m (300 to 850 ft). Associated native plant species include

Brighamia insignis, Cyperus trachysanthos, Lipochaeta lobata

var.

lobata

(nehe), or

Lobelia niihauensis.

Originally a component of the coastal dry forest, this species now occurs only in a rugged and steep area where it receives some protection from grazing ungulates (HINHP Database 2000; 61 FR 41020).

The species is threatened by habitat degradation and/or herbivory by cattle, feral pigs, and feral goats and seed predation by rats. Small population size, limited distribution, and reduced reproductive vigor makes this species particularly vulnerable to extinction (61 FR 41020).

Pritchardia napaliensis

(loulu)

Pritchardia napaliensis,

a member of the palm family (Arecaceae), is a small tree with about 20 leaves and an open crown. This species is distinguished from others of the genus that grow on Kauai by having about 20 flat leaves with pale scales on the lower surface that fall off with age, inflorescences with hairless main axes, and globose round fruits less than 3 cm (1.2 in) long (Read and Hodel 1999).

Little is known about the life history of

Pritchardia napaliensis.

Its flowering cycles, pollination vectors, seed dispersal agents, longevity, specific environmental requirements, and limiting factors are unknown (Service 1998a).

Pritchardia napaliensis

has only been known from five occurrences with 155 individuals on State-owned land in Pohakuao, Alealau, Waiahuakua, and Hoolulu Valley within the Hono o Na Pali NAR and Na Pali Coast State Park (GDSI 2000; HINHP Database 2000; K. Wood,

in litt.

1999).

Pritchardia napaliensis

typically grows in areas between elevations of 152 and 1,158 m (500 and 3,800 ft) in a wide variety of habitats ranging from lowland dry to diverse mesic forests dominated by

Diospyros

spp. or montane wet forests dominated by

Metrosideros polymorpha

and

Dicranopteris linearis.

Associated native plant species include

Alsinidendron lychnoides, Alyxia oliviformis, Boehmeria grandis, Cheirodendron trigynum, Cibotium

spp.,

Dubautia knudsenii, Elaeocarpus bifidus, Hibiscus kokio

ssp.

saintjohnianus

(kokio),

Lipochaeta connata

var. acris (nehe),

Melicope peduncularis

(alani),

Nesoluma polynesicum

(keahi),

Ochrosia kauaiensis

(holei),

Phyllostegia electra

(NCN),

Pleomele aurea, Poa sandvicensis, Pouteria sandwicensis, Psychotria

spp.,

Psydrax odorata, Pteralyxia kauaiensis, Rauvolfia sandwicensis, Santalum freycinetianum

var.

pyrularium, Stenogyne purpurea

(NCN),

Syzygium sandwicensis, Vaccinium dentatum, Wilkesia gymnoxiphium,

or

Xylosma hawaiiense

(HINHP Database 2000; Service 1998a; 61 FR 53070).

Major threats to

Pritchardia napaliensis

include habitat degradation and grazing by feral goats and pigs; seed predation by rats; and competition with nonnative plants such as

Erigeron karvinskianus, Kalanchoe pinnata, Lantana camara, Psidium guajava,

or possibly

Cordyline fruticosa.

The species is also threatened by vandalism and over-collection. In 1993, near the Wailua River, the State Division of Forestry and Wildlife (DOFAW) constructed a fenced enclosure around 39 recently planted

P. napaliensis

individuals. Shortly after planting, the fence was vandalized and the 39 plants were removed. Also, because of the small number of remaining populations and individuals, this species is susceptible to a risk of extinction from naturally occurring events, such as landslides or hurricanes, and from reduced reproductive vigor (61 FR 53070; Craig Koga, DOFAW, in litt. 1999; A. Kyono, pers. comm., 2000).

Pritchardia viscosa

(loulu)

Pritchardia viscosa,

a member of the palm family (Arecaceae), is a small tree 3 to 8 m (10 to 26 ft) tall. This species differs from others of the genus that grow on Kauai by the degree of hairiness of the lower surface of the leaves and main axis of the flower cluster, and length of the flower cluster (Read and Hodel 1999).

Historically,

Pritchardia viscosa

was known only from a 1920 collection from Kalihiwai Valley. It was not seen again until 1987, when Robert Read observed it in the same general area as the type locality, off the Powerline Road at 512 m (1,680 ft) elevation (HINHP Database 2000). Currently, there is one occurrence with three individuals on State-owned land within the Halelea Forest Reserve (GDSI 2000; HINHP Database 2000; 61 FR 53070).

This species is found in

Metrosideros polymorpha-Dicranopteris linearis

lowland wet forest at elevations between 488 and 518 m (1,600 and 1,700 ft). Associated native species include

Antidesma

spp.,

Bobea

spp.,

Cibotium

spp.,

Cyanea fissa, Cyrtandra kauaiensis, Cyrtandra longiflora, Dubautia knudsenii, Nothocestrum

spp.,

Perrottetia sandwicensis, Psychotria

spp.,

Sadleria pallida,

or

Syzygium sandwicensis

(Service 1998a; 61 FR 53070).

Pritchardia viscosa

is threatened by

Psidium cattleianum,

nonnative grasses such as

Paspalum conjugatum,

and seed predation by rats. At least one of the remaining mature trees has been damaged by spiked boots used either by a botanist or seed collector to scale the tree. In mid-1996, a young plant and seeds from mature

Pritchardia viscosa

plants were removed from the only known location of this species. Because of this past activity, it is reasonable to assume that these plants are threatened by over-collection and vandalism. Also, because of the small numbers of individuals in the only known population, this species is susceptible to

extinction since a single naturally occurring event (

e.g.

, a hurricane) could destroy all remaining plants (61 FR 53070; C. Koga, in litt. 1999; A. Kyono, pers. comm., 2000).

Pteralyxia kauaiensis

(kaulu)

Pteralyxia kauaiensis,

a member of the dogbane family (Apocynaceae), is a long-lived perennial tree 3 to 8 m (10 to 26 ft) tall. The leaves are dark green and shiny on the upper surfaces, but pale and dull on the lower surfaces. This species differs from the only other species of this endemic Hawaiian genus in having reduced lateral wings on the seed (Wagner

et al.

1999).

Little is known about the life history of

Pteralyxia kauaiensis.

Flowering cycles, pollination vectors, seed dispersal agents, longevity, specific environmental requirements, and limiting factors are unknown (Service 1995).

Historically,

Pteralyxia kauaiensis

was known from the Wahiawa Mountains in the southern portion of Kauai. This species is now known from 39 occurrences, with a total of 1,124 to 1,161 individuals in the following scattered locations on State land: Limahuli Valley, the left and right branches of Kalalau Valley, Pohakuao, Makaha Valley, Kuia Valley, Haeleele Valley, Koaie Canyon, Kawaiiki Valley, Hipalau, Haupu, Blue Hole, Poomau Valley, and Kapalikea within the Lihue-Koloa Forest Reserve, Na Pali Coast State Park, Na Pali-Kona Forest Reserve, and Puu Ka Pele Forest Reserve. There is also an undocumented sighting of one individual at Makaleha, above the town of Kapaa (HINHP Database 2000; Wagner

et al.

1999; 59 FR 9304; K. Wood, in litt. 1999).

This species is typically found in diverse mesic or

Diospyros sandwicensis

mixed mesic forests with

Pisonia

spp. between elevations of 127 and 1,563 m (418 and 5,128 ft). Associated native plant species include

Acacia koa, Alectryon macrococcus, Alphitonia ponderosa, Antidesma platyphyllum

var.

hillebrandii, Bobea brevipes, Carex

spp.,

Charpentiera elliptica, Claoxylon sandwicense, Cyanea

spp.,

Dianella sandwicensis, Diospyros

spp. (lama),

Diplazium sandwichianum, Dodonaea viscosa, Euphorbia haeleeleana, Freycinetia arborea, Gahnia

spp.,

Gardenia remyi

(nanu),

Hedyotis terminalis, Hibiscus kokio, Kokia kauaiensis, Leptecophylla tameiameiae, Metrosideros polymorpha, Myrsine lanaiensis, Neraudia

spp. (NCN),

Nesoluma polynesicum, Nestegis sandwicensis, Peperomia

spp.,

Pipturus

spp.,

Pisonia sandwicensis, Pleomele aurea, Poa sandvicensis, Pouteria sandwicensis, Pritchardia

spp.,

Psychotria

spp.,

Psydrax odorata, Rauvolfia sandwicensis, Santalum freycinetianum

var.

pyrularium, Schiedea

spp.,

Syzygium sandwicensis, Tetraplasandra

spp.,

Xylosma hawaiiense,

or

Zanthoxylum dipetalum

(HINHP Database 2000; 59 FR 9304; K. Wood, pers. comm., 2001).

The major threats to

Pteralyxia kauaiensis

are habitat destruction by feral animals and competition with introduced plants. Animals affecting the survival of this species include feral goats and pigs, and possibly rats, which may eat the fruit. Fire could threaten some populations. Introduced plants competing with this species include

Aleurites moluccana, Cordyline fruticosa, Erigeron karvinskianus, Lantana camara, Psidium cattleianum,

or

Psidium guajava

(HINHP Database 2000; Service 1995; 59 FR 9304).

Remya kauaiensis

(NCN)

Remya kauaiensis,

one of three species of a genus endemic to the Hawaiian Islands, is in the aster family (Asteraceae).

Remya kauaiensis

is a small short-lived perennial shrub, about 1 m (3 ft) tall, with many sprawling branches covered with a fine tan fuzz near their tips. The lower surface of the leaves is covered with fine white hairs. This species is distinguished from the other Kauai species in the genus by being hairy, having shorter flower head stalks, and having narrower tips on the floral bracts (Wagner

et al.

1999).

Seedlings of this species have not been observed. Flowers have been observed in April, May, June, and August, and are probably insect-pollinated. Seeds are probably wind or water-dispersed.

Remya kauaiensis

may be self-incompatible (Herbst 1988; Service 1995; 56 FR 1450).

Historically, this species was found at Koaie, Mohihi, Kalalau, Makaha, Nualolo, Kawaiula, Kuia, Honopu, Awaawapuhi, Kopakaka, and Kauhao on Kauai. There are currently 17 known occurrences with a total of 106 to 114 individuals on State-owned land. They occur in Hipalau Valley, Awini Valley, Koaie Canyon, Mohihi Stream, the left branch of Kalalau Valley, Awaawapuhi and Nualolo Valleys, Kuia and Kawaiula Valleys, Makaha Valley, Kauhao Valley, and Kaulaula Valley within the Alakai Wilderness Preserve, Kuia NAR, Na Pali Coast State Park, Na Pali-Kona Forest Reserve, Puu Ka Pele Forest Reserve, and Waimea Canyon State Park (GDSI 2000; HINHP Database 2000; K. Wood,

in litt.

1999).

Remya kauaiensis

grows chiefly on steep, north or northeast-facing slopes at elevations between 560 and 1,247 m (1,836 and 4,090 ft). It is found primarily in

Acacia koa-Metrosideros polymorpha

lowland mesic forest with

Chamaesyce

spp. (akoko),

Claoxylon sandwicense, Dianella sandwicensis, Diospyros

spp.,

Dodonaea viscosa, Hedyotis terminalis, Melicope

spp.,

Nestegis sandwicensis, Pouteria sandwicensis, Psychotria

spp.,

Schiedea

spp., or

Tetraplasandra

spp. (HINHP Database 2000; Herbst 1988; 56 FR 1450; K. Wood, pers. comm., 2001).

The primary threats to

Remya kauaiensis

include herbivory and habitat degradation by feral goats, pigs, cattle, and deer, and competition from nonnative plant species. Other threats include erosion, fire, and risk of extinction from naturally occurring events, such as landslides or hurricanes, and/or reduced reproductive vigor due to the small number of remaining populations and individuals (Service 1995; 56 FR 1450).

Remya montgomeryi

(NCN)

Remya montgomeryi

in the aster family (Asteraceae) was discovered in 1985 by Steven Montgomery on the sheer, virtually inaccessible cliffs below the upper rim of Kalalau Valley, Kauai. It is a small short-lived perennial shrub, about 1 m (3 ft) tall, with many sprawling to weakly erect, smooth branches. The species is distinguished from

R. kauaiensis

by being hairless, with longer flower head stalks and broader floral bract tips (Wagner

et al.

1999).

Seedlings of this species have not been observed. Flowers have been observed in April through August and are probably insect-pollinated. Seeds are probably wind or water-dispersed.

Remya montgomeryi

may be self-incompatible (Herbst 1988; 56 FR 1450).

Remya montgomeryi

is known only from Kauai. Six occurrences with 143 individuals are reported on State-owned land in the left and right branches of Kalalau Valley, Koaie Canyon, and Kuia Valley within the Alakai Wilderness Preserve and Na Pali Coast State Park (GDSI 2000; HINHP Database 2000; Herbst 1988; K. Wood,

in litt.

1999).

Remya montgomeryi

grows at elevations between 336 and 1,344 m (1,102 and 4,411 ft), primarily on steep, north or northeast-facing slopes or cliffs in transitional wet or

Metrosideros polymorpha

-dominated mixed mesic forest. Associated native plant species include

Artemisia australis, Bobea

spp.,

Boehmeria grandis, Cheirodendron

spp.,

Claoxylon sandwicense, Cyrtandra

spp.,

Dubautia

spp.,

Ilex anomala, Lepidium serra, Lysimachia

spp. (kolokolo kuahiwi),

Myrsine linearifolia, Nototrichium

spp.,

Pleomele aurea, Poa

mannii, Sadleria

spp.,

Scaevola

spp.,

Stenogyne campanulata, Tetraplasandra

spp., or

Zanthoxylum dipetalum

(HINHP Database 2000; K. Wood, pers. comm., 2001).

The primary threats to

Remya montgomeryi

are herbivory and habitat degradation by feral goats, pigs, cattle, and deer, and competition from nonnative plant species. Other threats include erosion, fire, and an increased risk of extinction from naturally occurring events (

e.g.

, landslides or hurricanes) because of the small size of the populations and their limited distribution (Service 1995; 56 FR 1450).

Schiedea apokremnos

(maolioli)

Schiedea apokremnos,

a member of the pink family (Caryophyllaceae), is a low, branching short-lived perennial shrub 20 to 51 cm (8 to 20 in) tall with leaves that are somewhat fleshy.

Schiedea apokremnos

is distinguished from related species by shorter sepals, nectaries, and capsules (Wagner

et al.

1999).

Some individuals of

Schiedea apokremnos

are functionally female and must be cross-pollinated to set seed. This reproductive strategy may be ineffective in populations with few individuals. Little is known about the life history of

Schiedea apokremnos.

Flowering cycles, pollination vectors, seed dispersal agents, longevity, specific environmental requirements, and limiting factors are unknown (Service 1995).

Schiedea apokremnos

has been collected from Nualolo Kai, Kaaweiki Ridge, and along a 10.5 km (6.5 mi) long section of the Na Pali coast including Milolii Valley, Kalalau Beach, Kaalahina and Manono Ridges, Haeleele Ridge, and as far north as Pohakuao Valley, all on the island of Kauai. There is currently a total of five occurrences containing 201 individuals on State-owned lands. The species is extant at Nakeikionaiwi, Pohakuao, Nualolo Valley, Haeleele Valley, and Kawaiiki Valley within the Na Pali Coast State Park and Puu Ka Pele Forest Reserve (GDSI 2000; HINHP Database 2000; 56 FR 49639).

Schiedea apokremnos

grows in the crevices of near-vertical basalt coastal cliff faces, at elevations between 11 and 538 m (35 and 1,765 ft). The species grows in sparse dry coastal cliff shrub vegetation along with

Artemisia australis, Bidens

spp.,

Carex meyenii, Chamaesyce celastroides, Eragrostis variabilis, Lepidium serra, Lipochaeta connata, Lobelia niihauensis, Myoporum sandwicense, Peperomia

spp.,

Pleomele aurea, Psydrax odorata,

or

Wilkesia

spp. (HINHP Database 2000; 56 FR 49639; K. Wood, pers. comm., 2001).

The restriction of this species to inaccessible cliffs suggests that goat herbivory may have eliminated it from more accessible locations. The greatest current threat to the survival of

Schiedea apokremnos

is still herbivory and habitat degradation by feral goats, as well as competition from the nonnative plants

Leucaena leucocephala

and

Hyptis pectinata

(comb hyptis), and trampling by humans. Given the small size of most populations and restricted distribution, depressed reproductive vigor may be a serious threat to the species. In addition, a single environmental disturbance (such as a landslide or fire) could destroy a significant percentage of the extant individuals (Service 1995; 56 FR 49639).

Schiedea helleri

(NCN)

Schiedea helleri,

a member of the pink family (Caryophyllaceae), is a short-lived perennial vine. The stems are usually prostrate and at least 15 cm (6 in) long. This species is the only member of the genus on Kauai that grows as a vine (Wagner

et al.

1999).

Three plants have been observed flowering in February. No additional life history information for this species is currently known (Service 1998a).

Schiedea helleri

was originally found only at a single location at Kaholuamano over 100 years ago. There is currently a total of three occurrences with 50 to 60 individuals on State-owned land at Mohihi Stream, Nawaimaka Valley, and Mohihi-Waialae Trail within the Alakai Wilderness Preserve and Na Pali-Kona Forest Reserve (GDSI 2000; HINHP Database 2000; K. Wood,

in litt.

1999).

Schiedea helleri

is found on ridges and steep cliffs in closed

Metrosideros polymorpha-Dicranopteris linearis

montane wet forest,

M. polymorpha-Cheirodendron

spp. montane wet forest, or

Acacia koa-M. polymorpha

montane mesic forest at elevations between 664 and 1,361 m (2,178 and 4,464 ft). Other native plants growing in association with this species include

Broussaisia arguta, Cheirodendron

spp.,

Cibotium

spp.,

Cyanea

spp.,

Dianella sandwicensis, Dubautia

spp.,

Elaeocarpus bifidus, Hedyotis terminalis, Melicope

spp.,

Myrsine

spp.,

Poa sandvicensis, Scaevola procera, Syzygium sandwicensis,

or

Viola wailenalenae

(pamakani) (HINHP Database 2000; K. Wood, pers. comm., 2001).

Competition with the nonnative plant

Rubus argutus,

a risk of extinction from naturally occurring events (

e.g.

, landslides or hurricanes), and reduced reproductive vigor due to the small number of extant individuals are serious threats to

Schiedea helleri

(61 FR 53070).

Schiedea kauaiensis

(NCN)

Schiedea kauaiensis,

a member of the pink family (Caryophyllaceae), is an erect subshrub. This short-lived perennial species is distinguished from others in this endemic Hawaiian genus by its habit, larger leaves, the hairiness of the inflorescence, the number of flowers in each inflorescence, larger flowers, and larger seeds (Wagner

et al.

1999).

Little is known about the life history of this taxon. Fruit and flowers have been observed in July through September. There is no evidence of regeneration from seed under field conditions. Reproductive cycles, longevity, specific environmental requirements and limiting factors are unknown (Service 1998a).

Historically,

Schiedea kauaiensis

was known from the northwestern side of Kauai, from Papaa to Mahanaloa. It was thought to be extinct until the five currently known occurrences in Mahanaloa and Kalalau Valleys, with a total of 22 individuals, were found. All occurrences are on State land within the Kuia NAR and Na Pali Coast State Park (GDSI 2000; HINHP Database 2000; K. Wood,

in litt.

1999).

Schiedea kauaiensis

typically grows in diverse mesic to wet

Acacia koa-Metrosideros polymorpha

forest on steep slopes at elevations between 117 and 1,290 m (385 and 4,232 ft). Associated native plant species include

Alphitonia ponderosa, Cryptocarya mannii, Diospyros

spp.,

Dodonaea viscosa, Euphorbia haeleeleana, Exocarpos luteolus, Leptocophylla tameiameiae, Microlepia strigosa, Nestegis sandwicensis, Pisonia

spp.,

Peucedanum sandwicense

(makou),

Psychotria

spp., or

Psydrax odorata

(HINHP Database 2000; 61 FR 53108; K. Wood, pers. comm., 2001).

Threats to

Schiedea kauaiensis

include habitat degradation and/or destruction by feral goats, pigs, and cattle; competition from several nonnative plant species; predation by introduced slugs and snails; and a risk of extinction from naturally occurring events, such as landslides or hurricanes, and/or reduced reproductive vigor due to the low number of individuals in only two known populations.

Schiedea kauaiensis

is also potentially threatened by fire (HINHP Database 2000; Service 1998a; 61 FR 53108).

Schiedea membranacea

(NCN)

Schiedea membranacea,

a member of the pink family (Caryophyllaceae), is a short-lived perennial herb. This species differs from other

Schiedea

species on Kauai by having five-to seven-veined leaves and an herbaceous habit (Wagner

et al.

1999).

Research suggests that this species largely requires outcrossing for successful germination and survival to adulthood. Pollinators for

Schiedea membranacea

are unknown, since none have been seen during the daytime, and none were observed during one set of night observations. Little else is known about the life history of

S. membranacea.

Its flowering cycles, pollination vectors, seed dispersal agents, longevity, specific environmental requirements, and limiting factors are unknown (Service 1998a).

Schiedea membranacea

is currently known from the western side of the island of Kauai, on State and privately owned lands at Poopooiki Valley, Milolii Ridge, Kuia Valley, Awaawapuhi Valley, Nualolo Valley, Kahuamaa Flats, Waialae Falls, Koaie Canyon, and the right branch of Wainiha Valley. On State lands it occurs within the Alakai Wilderness Preserve, Halelea Forest Reserve, Kuia NAR, Na Pali Coast State Park, and Na Pali-Kona Forest Reserve. There are currently 10 occurrences containing 344 to 348 individuals (GDSI 2000; HINHP Database 2000; Wood and Perlman 1993; 61 FR 53070; K. Wood,

in litt.

1999; ).

This species is typically found on cliffs and cliff bases in mesic or wet habitats in lowland or montane shrubland or forest communities dominated by

Acacia koa, Pipturus

spp. and

Metrosideros polymorpha

or Urticaceae shrubland on talus slopes at elevations between 422 and 1,259 m (1,386 and 4,131 ft). Associated native plant species include

Alphitonia ponderosa, Alyxia oliviformis, Asplenium

spp.,

Athyrium sandwicensis

(akolea),

Bobea brevipes, Boehmeria grandis, Cyrtandra

spp.,

Diplazium sandwichianum, Dodonaea viscosa, Eragrostis variabilis, Hedyotis terminalis, Hibiscus waimeae, Joinvillea ascendens

ssp.

ascendens

(ohe),

Labordia helleri

(kamakahala),

Lepidium serra, Lysimachia kalalauensis

(NCN),

Machaerina angustifolia, Mariscus pennatiformis, Melicope

spp.,

Myrsine

spp.,

Perrottetia sandwicensis, Pisonia

spp.,

Pleomele aurea, Poa mannii, Poa sandvicensis, Pouteria sandwicensis, Psychotria

spp.,

Psydrax odorata, Remya kauaiensis, Sadleria cyatheoides

(amau),

Scaevola procera, Thelypteris cyatheoides

(kikawaio),

Thelypteris sandwicensis

(palapalaia), or

Touchardia latifolia

(HINHP Database 2000; 61 FR 53070; K. Wood, pers. comm., 2001).

Habitat degradation by feral goats, pigs, and deer; competition with the nonnative plant species

Ageratina riparia

(Hamakua pamakani),

Erigeron karvinskianus, Lantana camara, Passiflora tarminiana, Psidium cattleianum, Rubus argutus,

or

R. rosifolius;

loss of pollinators; and landslides are the primary threats to

Schiedea membranacea.

Based on observations indicating that snails and slugs may consume seeds and seedlings, it is likely that introduced molluscs also represent a major threat to this species (Service 1998a; Wood and Perlman 1993; 61 FR 53070).

Schiedea spergulina

var.

leiopoda

and

Schiedea spergulina

var.

spergulina

(NCN)

Schiedea spergulina,

a member of the pink family (Caryophyllaceae), is a short-lived perennial subshrub. Of the 22 species in this endemic genus, only two other species have smooth seeds.

Schiedea spergulina

differs from those two in having very compact flower clusters. The two weakly defined varieties differ primarily in the degree of hairiness of the inflorescences, with

S. spergulina

var.

leiopoda

being the less hairy of the two (Wagner

et al.

1999).

Little is known about the life histories of either

Schiedea spergulina

var.

leiopoda

or

S. spergulina

var. spergulina. Flowering cycles, pollination vectors, seed dispersal agents, longevity, specific environmental requirements, and limiting factors are unknown (Service 1995).

Historically,

Schiedea spergulina

var.

leiopoda

was found on a ridge on the east side of Hanapepe on Kauai. One occurrence with approximately 135 to 150 individuals is now known to grow in Lawai Valley on Kauai on privately owned land (GDSI 2000; HINHP Database 2000).

Schiedea spergulina

var.

spergulina

was historically found in Olokele Canyon, but is now known only from the right branch of Kalalau Valley, Koaie Canyon, and Waimea Canyon. A total of three occurrences numbering approximately 208 individuals is reported on State-owned land within the Na Pali Coast State Park, Na Pali-Kona Forest Reserve, and the Puu Ka Pele Forest Reserve. However, it has been estimated that this species may number in the thousands on Kauai (GDSI 2000; HINHP Database 2000; Service 1995).

Both varieties of

Schiedea spergulina

are usually found on bare rock outcrops or sparsely vegetated portions of rocky cliff faces or cliff bases in diverse lowland dry to mesic forests at elevations between 21 and 90 m (69 and 294 ft) for

S. spergulina

var.

leiopoda

and elevations between 144 and 828 m (474 and 2,718 ft) for

S. spergulina

var.

spergulina.

Associated native plant species include

Acacia koa, Artemisia australis, Bidens sandvicensis, Carex meyenii, Chamaesyce celastroides, Dianella sandwicensis, Doryopteris

spp. (kumuniu),

Eragrostis variabilis, Erythrina sandwicensis

(wiliwili),

Gahnia

spp.,

Heliotropium

spp. (ahinahina),

Lepidium serra, Lipochaeta connata, Microlepia strigosa, Nestegis sandwicensis, Nototrichium sandwicense, Panicum lineale, Peucedanum sandwicense,

or

Wilkesia gymnoxiphium

(HINHP Database 2000; Lorence and Flynn 1991; Service 1995; 59 FR 9304; K. Wood, pers. comm., 2001).

The major threats to

Schiedea spergulina

var.

leiopoda

are habitat destruction by feral goats and competition with nonnative plants such as

Furcraea foetida

(Mauritius hemp),

Lantana camara,

or

Leucaena leucocephala.

Individuals have also been damaged and destroyed by rock slides. This variety is potentially threatened by pesticide use in nearby sugarcane fields, as well as being at risk of extinction from naturally occurring events (

e.g.

, hurricanes) and/or reduced reproductive vigor due to the small number of existing individuals (Lorence and Flynn 1991; Service 1995; 59 FR 9304).

Schiedea spergulina

var.

spergulina

is threatened by competition with nonnative plant species, including

Erigeron karvinskianus, Lantana camara, Melia azedarach, or Triumfetta semitriloba

(Sacramento bur). The area in which this variety grows is used heavily by feral goats, and there is evidence that plants are being browsed and trampled (HINHP Database 2000; Lorence and Flynn 1991; 59 FR 9304).

Schiedea stellarioides

(laulihilihi)

Schiedea stellarioides,

a member of the pink family (Caryophyllaceae), is a slightly erect to prostrate subshrub with branched stems. The opposite leaves are very slender to oblong-elliptic, and one-veined. This short-lived perennial species is distinguished from other Schiedea species on Kauai by the number of veins in the leaves, shape of the leaves, presence of a leaf stalk, length of the flower cluster, and shape of the seeds (Wagner

et al.

1999).

Plants have been observed flowering in February. Little else is known about the life history of

Schiedea stellarioides.

Its flowering cycles, pollination vectors, seed dispersal agents, longevity, specific environmental requirements, and limiting factors are unknown (Service 1995).

Historically,

Schiedea stellarioides

was found at the sea cliffs of Hanakapiai Beach, Kaholuamano-Opaewela region, the ridge between Waialae and Nawaimaka Valleys, and Haupu Range on the island of Kauai. Currently it is found in Kawaiiki Valley and Waialae Falls within the Na Pali-Kona Forest Reserve. There is a total of three occurrences with 1,500 individuals on State-owned land (GDSI 2000; HINHP Database 2000; K. Wood,

in litt.

1999).

Schiedea stellarioides

is found on steep slopes in closed

Acacia koa-Metrosideros polymorpha

lowland to montane mesic forest or shrubland at elevations between 376 and 1,251 m (1,135 and 4,102 ft). Associated native plant species include

Alsinidendron viscosum, Artemisia australis, Bidens cosmoides, Chenopodium

spp. (aheahea),

Dianella sandwicensis, Dodonaea viscosa, Leptecophylla tameiameiae, Mariscus

spp.,

Melicope

spp.,

Nototrichium sandwicense, Pipturus

spp.,

Syzygium sandwicensis,

or

Zanthoxylum dipetalum

(HINHP Database 2000; 61 FR 53070; K. Wood, pers. comm., 2001).

The primary threats to this species include habitat degradation and herbivory by feral pigs and goats, competition with the nonnative plants

Melinis minutiflora

and

Rubus argutus,

and a risk of extinction of the two remaining populations from naturally occurring events, such as landslides or hurricanes (61 FR 53070).

Stenogyne campanulata

(NCN)

Stenogyne campanulata,

a member of the mint family (Lamiaceae), is a vine with four-angled, hairy stems. A short-lived perennial species,

Stenogyne campanulata

is distinguished from closely related species by its large and very broadly bell-shaped calyces that nearly enclose the relatively small, straight corollas, and by small calyx teeth that are half as long as wide (Weller and Sakai 1999).

Little is known about the life history of

Stenogyne campanulata.

Flowering cycles, pollination vectors, seed dispersal agents, longevity, specific environmental requirements, and limiting factors are unknown (Service 1995).

Stenogyne campanulata

is known from three occurrences with 66 individuals which were originally discovered in the left branch of Kalalau Valley on State-owned land in the Na Pali Coast State Park (GDSI 2000; HINHP Database 2000).

Stenogyne campanulata

grows on the rock face of a nearly vertical, north-facing cliff in diverse lowland or montane mesic forest at elevations between 335 and 1,290 m (1,100 and 4,232 ft). The associated native plant species include

Lepidium serra, Lobelia niihauensis, Lysimachia

spp.,

Melicope pallida, Metrosideros polymorpha, Neraudia kauaiensis, Nototrichium divaricatum

(kului),

Poa mannii, Remya montgomeryi,

or

Wilkesia gymnoxiphium

(Weller and Sakai 1999; 57 FR 20580; K. Wood, pers. comm., 2001).

The restriction of this species to virtually inaccessible cliffs suggests that herbivory by feral goats may have eliminated it from more accessible locations. Goat herbivory and habitat degradation remain the primary threat. Feral pigs have disturbed vegetation in the vicinity of these plants. Erosion caused by feral goats or pigs exacerbates the potential threat of landslides.

Erigeron karvinskianus

and

Rubus argutus

are the primary nonnative plants threatening

Stenogyne campanulata.

The small number of individuals and its restricted distribution are serious potential threats to the species. The limited population size may depress reproductive vigor, or a single environmental disturbance, such as a landslide, could destroy all known extant individuals (57 FR 20580).

Viola helenae

(NCN)

Viola helenae

is a small, unbranched perennial subshrub with an erect stem in the violet family (Violaceae). It is distinguished from other Kauai species of

Viola

by the leaf shape and width, woody stems, and strictly chasmogamous (open at maturity for access by pollinators) flowers (Wagner

et al.

1999).

Little is known about the life history of

Viola helenae.

Wagner

et al.

(1999) state that the flowers are all chasmogamous and not cleistogamous (remain closed and self-fertilize in the bud) as in certain other violet species. Therefore, it is likely that its flowers require pollination by insects for seed set. Mature flowering plants do produce seed; however, seed viability may be low and microhabitat requirements for germination and growth may be very specific. Seeds planted at NTBG on Kauai failed to germinate, although they may not have been sufficiently mature when collected and violet seeds are often very slow to germinate. The seeds are jettisoned when the capsule splits open, as in most species of the genus (Service 1994).

Historically,

Viola helenae

was known from four populations, two along either branch of Wahiawa Stream on Kauai. Currently, there is one known occurrence with a total of 137 plants, on privately owned land within the Wahiawa drainage (GDSI 2000; HINHP Database 2000; Service 1994; 56 FR 47695).

This species is found in

Metrosideros polymorpha-Dicranopteris linearis

lowland wet forest or

M. polymorpha-Cheirodendron

wet forest growing on stream drainage banks or adjacent valley bottoms in light to moderate shade at elevations between 522 and 1,006 m (1,712 and 3,301 ft). Associated native plant species include

Antidesma platyphyllum

var.

hillebrandii, Broussaisia arguta, Dicranopteris linearis, Diplazium sandwichianum, Dubautia

spp.,

Freycinetia arborea, Hesperomannia lydgatei, Melicope

spp., or

Pritchardia

spp. (HINHP Database 2000; Service 1994; K. Wood, pers. comm., 2001).

Threats to

Viola helenae

include competition from nonnative plant species, including

Elephantopus mollis, Erechtites valerianifolia, Melastoma candidum, Psidium cattleianum, Rubus rosifolius, Stachytarpheta australis,

various nonnative grasses, or potentially

Melaleuca quinquenervia;

trampling and browsing damage by feral pigs; landslides and erosion; and hurricanes (Service 1994; 56 FR 47695).

Viola kauaiensis

var.

wahiawaensis

(nani waialeale)

Viola kauaiensis,

a member of the violet family (Violaceae), is a short-lived perennial herb with upward curving or weakly rising, hairless, lateral stems. The species is distinguished from others of the genus by its non-woody habit, widely spaced kidney-shaped leaves, and by having two types of flowers: conspicuous, open flowers and smaller, unopened flowers. Two varieties of the species are recognized, both occurring on Kauai: var.

kauaiensis

and var.

wahiawaensis. Viola kauaiensis

var.

wahiawaensis

is distinguished by having broadly wedge-shaped leaf bases (Service 1998a; Wagner

et al.

1999).

Viola kauaiensis

var.

wahiawaensis

has been observed in flower in December. Little else is known about the life history of

V. kauaiensis

var.

wahiawaensis.

Its flowering cycles, pollination vectors, seed dispersal agents, longevity, specific environmental requirements, and limiting factors are unknown (Service 1998a).

Viola kauaiensis

var.

wahiawaensis

is known only from two occurrences in the Wahiawa Mountains of Kauai with a total of 13 individual plants, on privately owned land. This taxon is not known to have occurred beyond its current range (GDSI 2000; HINHP Database 2000).

Viola kauaiensis

var.

wahiawaensis

is found in

Machaerina angustifolia-Rhynchospora rugosa

(kuolohia) lowland bog or mixed wet shrubland and adjacent

Metrosideros polymorpha

wet forest at elevations between 393 and 1,006 m (1,291 and 3,301 ft). Associated native plant species include

Antidesma platyphyllum

var.

hillebrandii, Bidens forbesii

(kookoolau),

Chamaesyce remyi

(akoko),

Chamaesyce sparsiflora

(akoko),

Coprosma

spp.,

Cyanea fissa, Dicranopteris linearis, Diplopterygium pinnatum

(uluhe lau nui),

Dubautia imbricata

(naenae),

Dubautia raillardioides, Gahnia vitiensis

(NCN),

Leptechophylla tameiameiae, Lobelia kauaensis

(NCN),

Machaerina angustifolia, Machaerina mariscoides, Melicope

spp.,

Psychotria wawrae, Sadleria pallida, Scaevola gaudichaudii, Sphenomeris chinensis, Syzygium sandwicensis, Tetraplasandra oahuensis,

or

Vaccinium dentatum

(HINHP Database 2000; Lorence and Flynn 1991; Service 1998a; 61 FR 53070; K. Wood, pers. comm., 2001).

The primary threats to

Viola kauaiensis

var.

wahiawaensis

are a risk of extinction from naturally occurring events, such as landslides or hurricanes, and reduced reproductive vigor due to the small number of existing populations and individuals; habitat degradation through the rooting activities of feral pigs; and competition with nonnative plants, such as

Juncus planifolius

(NCN) or

Pterolepis glomerata

(NCN) (HINHP Database 2000; Lorence and Flynn 1991; Service 1994; 61 FR 53070).

Wilkesia hobdyi

(dwarf iliau)

Wilkesia hobdyi,

a member of an endemic Hawaiian genus in the aster family (Asteraceae), is a short-lived perennial shrub which branches from the base. The tip of each branch bears a tuft of narrow leaves growing in whorls joined together into a short sheathing section at their bases. The cream-colored flower heads grow in clusters. It is distinguished from the other species of

Wilkesia

by having shorter branched stems and fewer shorter leaves per whorl (Carr 1982a, 1999b).

This species is probably pollinated through outcrossing and is probably self-incompatible. Insects are the most likely pollinators. In 1982, Carr reported that reproduction and seedling establishment were occurring and appeared sufficient to sustain the populations. Flowering has been observed most often in the winter months, but also during June. Fruits may be dispersed when they stick to the feathers of birds. Densities reach one plant per sq m (approximately one sq yard) in localized areas, and hybridization with

Wilkesia gymnoxiphium

may be occurring (Carr 1982a).

First collected in 1968 on Polihale Ridge, Kauai, this species was not formally described until 1971 (St. John 1971). Currently, there are nine occurrences with a total of 406 to 471 individuals. This species occurs on State-owned lands within the Hono o Na Pali NAR, Na Pali Coast State Park, and Puu Ka Pele Forest Reserve and on land under Federal jurisdiction within the Pacific Missile Range Facility (PMRF) at Makaha Ridge. The plants occur in Milolii Valley, Makaha Ridge, Haeleele Ridge, Kaaweiki Ridge, Polihale Spring, Pohakumano, and Pohakuao (GDSI 2000; HINHP Database 2000).

Wilkesia hobdyi

grows on coastal dry cliffs or very dry ridges at elevations between 12 and 685 m (40 and 2,246 ft). The associated native plant species include

Artemisia australis, Dodonaea viscosa, Eragrostis variabilis, Hibiscus kokio

ssp.

saint johnianus, Lipochaeta connata, Lobelia niihauensis, Myoporum sandwicense, Peperomia blanda

(ala ala wai nui),

Peperomia tetraphylla

(ala ala wai nui),

Peperomia

spp.,

Peucedanum sandwicense, Psydrax odorata, Sida fallax, Waltheria indica

(uhaloa), or

Wilkesia gymnoxiphium

(Service 1995; Wagner

et al.

1999; 57 FR 27859; K. Wood, pers. comm., 2001).

The greatest immediate threats to the survival of this species are habitat disturbance and browsing by feral goats. Although the low number of individuals and their restricted habitat could be considered a potential threat to the survival to the species, the plant appears to have vigorous reproduction and may survive indefinitely if goats were eliminated from its habitat. Fire and extinction through naturally occurring events, such as landslides or hurricanes, could also be threats to the survival of the species (Service 1995; 57 FR 27859).

Xylosma crenatum

(NCN)

Xylosma crenatum

is a dioecious (plant bears only male or female flowers, and must cross-pollinate with another plant to produce viable seed) long-lived perennial tree in the flacourtia family (Flacourtiaceae). The tree grows up to 14 m (45 ft) tall and has dark gray bark. More coarsely toothed leaf edges and hairy undersides of the leaves distinguish

X. crenatum

from the other Hawaiian member of this genus (Wagner

et al.

1999).

Little is known about the life history of

Xylosma crenatum.

Flowering cycles, pollination vectors, seed dispersal agents, longevity, specific environmental requirements, and limiting factors are unknown (Service 1995).

Historically,

Xylosma crenatum

was known from three occurrences on Kauai: along upper Nualolo Trail and along Mohihi Road between Waiakoali and Mohihi drainages. Currently, this species is extant on State-owned land in Kainamanu, Nualolo Trail, and Mohihi Valley within Kokee State Park, Kuia NAR, and Na Pali-Kona Forest Reserve. There are three occurrences with a total of 16 individual plants (GDSI 2000; HINHP Database 2000; Service 1995; 57 FR 20580).

Xylosma crenatum

is known from diverse

Acacia koa-Metrosideros polymorpha

montane mesic or wet forest, or

M. polymorpha-Dicranopteris linearis

montane wet forest, at elevations between 936 and 1,284 m (3,070 and 4,212 ft). Associated native plant species include

Athyrium sandwicensis, Cheirodendron

spp.,

Claoxylon sandwicense, Coprosma

spp.,

Cyanea

spp. (haha),

Diplazium sandwichianum, Dubautia knudsenii, Hedyotis

spp.,

Ilex anomala, Lobelia yuccoides, Myrsine

spp.,

Nestegis sandwicensis, Perrottetia sandwicensis, Pleomele aurea, Poa sandvicensis, Pouteria sandwicensis, Psychotria

spp.,

Scaevola procera, Streblus pendulinus, Tetraplasandra

spp.,

Touchardia latifolia,

or

Zanthoxylum dipetalum

(HINHP Database 2000; Service 1995; 57 FR 20580; K. Wood, pers. comm., 2001).

The small number of individuals and scattered distribution make this species vulnerable to human or natural environmental disturbance.

Xylosma crenatum

is also threatened by competition from nonnative plants, particularly

Psidium guajava.

In addition, feral pigs may threaten this species (HINHP Database 2000; Service 1995; 57 FR 20580).

Multi-Island Species

Acaena exigua

(liliwai)

Acaena exigua

is a small perennial rosette herb in the rose family (Rosaceae) with narrow, fern-like, divided leaves. It is distinguished from the other Hawaiian rose family members by its lack of petals and by its urn-

shaped, constricted receptacle (top of flower stem where floral parts are attached) that encloses the carpels (ovule-bearing floral part) (Wagner

et al.

1999).

Little is known about the life history of Acaena exigua. Its flowering cycles, pollination vectors, seed dispersal agents, longevity, specific environmental requirements, and limiting factors are unknown (Service 1997).

Historically,

Acaena exigua

was known from Puu Kukui on West Maui and from Mount Waialeale on Kauai. On Kauai,

A. exigua

was last collected between 1869 and 1870, and has not been seen in the wild since (Wagner

et al.

1999).

Acaena exigua

is known only from sites with extensive cloud cover and moderate to strong winds in wet montane shrub bog or bog margins characterized by a thick peat substrate overlying an impervious clay substrate, with hummocks of sedges and grasses, stunted trees, and shrubs and elevations between 666 and 1,598 m (2,185 and 5,244 ft). Associated native plant species include

Deschampsia nubigena

(hair grass),

Dichanthelium cynodon

(NCN),

Dichanthelium hillebrandianum

(NCN),

Dichanthelium isachnoides

(NCN),

Dubautia

spp.,

Melicope

spp.,

Metrosideros polymorpha, Oreobolus furcatus

(NCN), or

Vaccinium

spp. (K. Wood, pers. comm., 2001).

The reason for the disappearance of this species is not known. Although impacts from herbivory and rooting by pigs are assumed and often cited, feral pigs have become established at Waialeale (Kauai) only within the past two decades. The main current threats to

Acaena exigua,

if it exists, are believed to include small population size; human impacts (collecting and site degradation); potentially consumption of vegetative or floral parts of this species by nonnative slugs and/or rats; predation and habitat disturbance by feral pigs; and nonnative plant species, especially

Juncus planifolius

(57 FR 20772).

Achyranthes mutica

(NCN)

Achyranthes mutica,

a member of the amaranth family (Amaranthaceae) and a short-lived perennial, is a many-branched shrub with egg-shaped leaves and stalkless flowers. This species is distinguished from others in the genus by the shape and size of the sepals and by characteristics of the spike, which is short and congested (Wagner

et al.

1999).

Historically,

Achyranthes mutica

was known from three collections from opposite ends of the main archipelago: Kauai and Hawaii. Currently, this species is known only from Hawaii Island, from Kilohana Gulch on private land. It was last observed on Kauai in the 1850s (GDSI 2000; HINHP Database 2000; 61 FR 53108).

Nothing is known of the preferred habitat of or native plant species associated with

Achyranthes mutica

on the island of Kauai.

Nothing is known of the threats to

Achyranthes mutica

on the island of Kauai.

Adenophorus periens

(pendent kihi fern)

Adenophorus periens,

a member of the grammitis family (Grammitidaceae), is a small, pendent, epiphytic (not rooted on the ground) fern. This species differs from other species in this endemic Hawaiian genus by having hairs along the pinna (a leaflet) margins, by the pinnae being at right angles to the midrib axis, by the placement of the sori on the pinnae, and the degree of dissection of each pinna (Linney 1989).

Little is known about the life history of

Adenophorus periens,

which seems to grow only in closed canopy dense forest with high humidity. Its breeding system is unknown, but outbreeding is very likely to be the predominant mode of reproduction. Spores are dispersed by wind, possibly by water, and perhaps on the feet of birds or insects. Spores lack a thick resistant coat which may indicate their longevity is brief, probably measured in days at most. Due to the weak differences between the seasons, there seems to be no evidence of seasonality in growth or reproduction. Additional information on reproductive cycles, longevity, specific environmental requirements, and limiting factors is not known (Linney 1989).

Historically,

Adenophorus periens

was reported from Kauai, Oahu, Lanai, Maui, and the island of Hawaii. Currently, it is known from several locations on Kauai, Molokai, and Hawaii (HINHP Database 2000). On Kauai, there is a total of seven occurrences on private and State-owned lands (Halelea Forest Reserve, Hono o Na Pali NAR, and Kealia Forest Reserve), with approximately 59 individuals, that occur at Pihea, Pali Eleele, Waioli Valley, Mount Namahana, Lumahai Valley, Wainiha Valley, and Kapalaoa (GDSI 2000; HINHP Database 2000; 59 FR 56333;).

This epiphytic species usually growing on

Metrosideros polymorpha

trunks, is found in riparian banks of stream systems in well-developed, closed canopy that provides deep shade or high humidity in

M. polymorpha-Cibotium glaucum

lowland wet forests, open

M. polymorpha

montane wet forest, or

M. polymorpha-Dicranopteris linearis

lowland wet forest at elevations between 107 and 1,593 m (351 and 5,228 ft). Associated native plant species include

Antidesma platyphyllum, Athyrium sandwichianum, Broussaisia arguta, Cheirodendron trigynum, Cyanea

spp.,

Cyrtandra

spp.,

Dicranopteris linearis, Freycinetia arborea, Hedyotis terminalis, Labordia hirtella, Machaerina angustifolia, Psychotria hexandra, Psychotria

spp.,

Syzygium sandwicensis,

or

Tetraplasandra oahuensis

(Linney 1989; 59 FR 56333; K. Wood, pers. comm., 2001).

The threats to this species on Kauai include habitat degradation by feral pigs and goats and competition with the nonnative plant

Psidium cattleianum

(HINHP Database 2000; 59 FR 56333).

Alectryon macrococcus

var.

macrococcus

(mahoe)

Alectryon macrococcus,

a member of the soapberry family (Sapindaceae), consists of two varieties,

macrococcus

and

auwahiensis,

both trees with reddish-brown branches and leaves with one to five pairs of sometimes asymmetrical egg-shaped leaflets. The underside of the leaf has dense brown hairs, persistent in

A. macrococcus

var.

auwahiensis,

but only on leaves of young

A. macrococcus

var.

macrococcus

plants. The only member of its genus found in Hawaii, this species is distinguished from other Hawaiian members of its family by being a tree with a hard fruit 2.3 cm (0.9 in) or more in diameter (Wagner

et al.

1999).

Alectryon

macrococcus is a relatively slow-growing, long-lived tree that grows in xeric to mesic sites and is adapted to periodic drought. Little else is known about the life history of

Alectryon macrococcus.

Flowering cycles, pollination vectors, seed dispersal agents, longevity, and specific environmental requirements are unknown (Service 1997).

Alectryon macrococcus

var.

macrococcus

historically and currently occurs on Kauai, Oahu, Molokai and Maui. On Kauai,

A. macrococcus

var.

macrococcus

occurs on State-owned land in the Alakai Wilderness Preserve, Na Pali Coast State Park, Na Pali-Kona Forest Reserve, and Puu Ka Pele Forest Reserve. A total of 18 occurrences of 159 to 174 individuals is known from Kalalau Valley, Kipalau Valley, Haeleele Valley, Waimea Canyon, Hipalau Valley, and Kawaiiki Falls (GDSI 2000; K. Wood,

in litt.

1999).

Alectryon macrococcus

var.

auwahiensis

is found

only on leeward east Maui (HINHP Database 2000; Medeiros

et al.

1986).

The habitat of

Alectryon macrococcus

var.

macrococcus

on Kauai is

Diospyros

spp.-

Metrosideros polymorpha

lowland mesic forest,

M. polymorpha

mixed mesic forest, or

Diospyros

spp. mixed mesic forest on dry slopes or in gulches, at elevations between 341 and 954 m (1,120 and 3,129 ft). Associated native plant species include

Acacia koa, Alyxia oliviformis, Antidesma

spp.,

Bobea timonioides, Caesalpinia kavaiense

(uhiuhi),

Canavalia

spp. (awikiwiki),

Carex meyenii, Carex wahuensis, Doodia kunthiana, Hibiscus waimeae, Kokia kauaiensis, Melicope knudsenii

(alani),

Microlepia strigosa, Munroidendron racemosum, Myrsine lanaiensis, Nesoluma polynesicum, Nestegis sandwicensis, Pisonia

spp.,

Pleomele aurea, Pouteria sandwicensis, Psychotria

spp.,

Psydrax odorata, Pteralyxia kauaiensis, Rauvolfia sandwicensis, Streblus pendulinus, Tetraplasandra

spp.,

Xylosma

spp., or

Zanthoxylum

spp. (HINHP Database 2000; 57 FR 20772; K. Wood, pers. comm., 2001).

Alectryon macrococcus

var.

macrococcus

on Kauai is threatened by feral goats and pigs; the nonnative plant species

Melinis minutiflora, Psidium cattleianum,

or

Schinus terebinthifolius

(Christmasberry); damage from the black twig borer; seed predation by rats and mice; fire; depressed reproductive vigor; seed predation by insects (probably the endemic microlepidopteran

Prays

cf.

fulvocanella

); loss of pollinators; and, due to the small remaining number of individuals and their limited distribution, natural or human-caused environmental disturbances that could easily be catastrophic (57 FR 20772).

Bonamia menziesii

(NCN)

Bonamia menziesii,

a member of the morning-glory family (Convolvulaceae), is a vine with twining branches that are fuzzy when young. This species is the only member of the genus that is endemic to the Hawaiian Islands and differs from other genera in the family by its two styles, longer stems and petioles, and ro

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