Endangered and Threatened Wildlife and Plants; Determination of Endangered or Threatened Status for Nineteen Plant Species From the Island of Kauai, Hawaii

DEPARTMENT OF THE INTERIOR

Fish and Wildlife Service

50 CFR Part 17

RIN 1018-AD46

Endangered and Threatened Wildlife and Plants; Determination of

Endangered or Threatened Status for Nineteen Plant Species From the

Island of Kauai, Hawaii

AGENCY: Fish and Wildlife Service, Interior.

ACTION: Final rule.

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SUMMARY: The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (Service) determines

endangered status pursuant to the Endangered Species Act of 1973, as

amended (Act), for 17 plants: Alsinidendron lychnoides (kuawawaenohu),

Alsinidendron viscosum (No common name (NCN)), Cyanea remyi (haha),

Cyrtandra cyaneoides (mapele), Delissea rivularis ('oha),

Hibiscadelphus woodii (hau kuahiwi), Hibiscus waimeae ssp. hannerae

(koki'o ke'oke'o), Kokia kauaiensis (koki'o), Labordia tinifolia var.

wahiawaensis (kamakahala), Phyllostegia knudsenii (NCN), Phyllostegia

wawrana (NCN), Pritchardia napaliensis (loulu), Pritchardia viscosa

(loulu), Schiedea helleri (NCN), Schiedea membranacea (NCN), Schiedea

stellarioides (laulihilihi), and Viola kauaensis var. wahiawaensis

(nani wai'ale'ale). The Service also determines threatened status for

two plant species: Cyanea recta (haha) and Myrsine linearifolia

(kolea). All of the species are endemic to the island of Kauai,

Hawaiian Islands. The 19 plant taxa and their habitats have been

variously affected or are currently threatened by one or more of the

following: competition, predation or habitat degradation from

introduced species, natural disasters, and trampling by humans. This

rule implements the Federal protection provisions provided by the Act.

Listing under the Act also triggers listed status for these 19 taxa

under State law.

EFFECTIVE DATE: This rule takes effect November 12, 1996.

ADDRESSES: The complete file for this rule is available for inspection,

by appointment, during normal business hours at the U.S. Fish and

Wildlife Service, 300 Ala Moana Boulevard, Room 3108, P.O. Box 5088,

Honolulu, Hawaii 96850.

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Brooks Harper, Field Supervisor,

Ecological Services (see ADDRESSES

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section) (telephone: 808/541-3441; facsimile: 808/541-3470).

SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION:

Background

Alsinidendron lychnoides, Alsinidendron viscosum, Cyanea recta,

Cyanea remyi, Cyrtandra cyaneoides, Delissea rivularis, Hibiscadelphus

woodii, Hibiscus waimeae ssp. hannerae, Kokia kauaiensis, Labordia

tinifolia var. wahiawaensis, Myrsine linearifolia, Phyllostegia

knudsenii, Phyllostegia wawrana, Pritchardia napaliensis, Pritchardia

viscosa, Schiedea helleri, Schiedea membranacea, Schiedea

stellarioides, and Viola kauaensis var. wahiawaensis are endemic to the

island of Kauai.

The island of Kauai is the northernmost and oldest of the eight

major Hawaiian Islands (Foote et al. 1972). This highly eroded island,

characterized by deeply dissected canyons and steep ridges, is 1,430

square kilometers (sq km) (553 sq miles (mi)) in area (Department of

Geography 1983). Kauai was formed about six million years ago by a

single shield volcano. Its caldera, once the largest in the Hawaiian

Islands, now extends about 16 km (10 mi) in diameter and comprises the

extremely wet, elevated tableland of Alakai Swamp (Department of

Geography 1983). Because the highest point on Kauai, at Kawaikini Peak,

is only 1,598 m (5,243 ft) in elevation (Walker 1990), it lacks the

contrasting leeward montane rainfall patterns found on other Hawaiian

islands that have higher mountain systems. Rainfall is distributed

throughout the upper elevations, especially at Mount Waialeale, Kauai's

second highest point at 1,569 m (5,148 ft) in elevation (Walker 1990)

and one of the wettest spots on earth, where annual rainfall averages

1,145 centimeters (cm) (450 inches (in)) (Wagner et al. 1990). To the

west of the Alakai Swamp is the deeply dissected Waimea Canyon,

extending 16 km (10 mi) in length and up to 1.6 km (1 mi) in width.

Later volcanic activity on the southeastern flank of the volcano formed

the smaller Haupu caldera. Subsequent erosion and collapse of its flank

formed Haupu Ridge (Macdonald et al. 1983). One of the island's most

famous features is the Na Pali Coast, where stream and wave action have

cut deep valleys and eroded the northern coast to form precipitous

cliffs as high as 910 m (3,000 ft) (Joesting 1984).

Because of its age and relative isolation, levels of floristic

diversity and endemism are higher on Kauai than on any other island in

the Hawaiian archipelago. However, the vegetation of 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 (Gagne and Cuddihy 1990) or

pasture. Intentional or inadvertent introduction of alien 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 and wet regions within Kauai's conservation

district. The 19 taxa in this final rule occur in that district,

between 150 and 1,310 m (500 and 4,300 ft) elevation, within large

State-owned tracts of natural area reserves, forest reserves, and

parks, and smaller privately owned tracts. Most of the taxa 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 alien animal and

plant species.

The 19 taxa in this final rule are distributed mostly in the

northern and northwestern portions of the island and grow in a variety

of vegetation communities (shrublands, forests, and mixed communities),

elevational zones (lowland to montane), and moisture regimes (dry to

wet). Only one species, Pritchardia napaliensis, is found in lowland

dry communities. These once abundant communities are now fragmented due

to fire, development, and the ingression of alien plants and animals.

Lowland dry forests in Hawaii are characterized by an annual rainfall

of 50 to 200 cm (20 to 80 in) that falls between November and March,

and a well-drained, highly weathered substrate rich in aluminum (Gagne

and Cuddihy 1990).

Most populations of the 19 taxa in this final rule are in lowland

mesic or wet shrubland or forest communities. Lowland mesic shrublands

lie between 30 and 850 m (100 and 2,790 ft) elevation and are

characterized by an open or closed canopy up to 3 m (10 ft) tall with

little or no herbaceous layer development. These shrublands usually

occur in habitats where forests cannot develop, such as on cliffs,

ridges, and steep slopes. The annual rainfall of 100 to 200 cm (40 to

80 in) falls primarily during the winter months (Gagne and Cuddihy

1990). Lowland mesic forest communities lie between 30 and 1,600 m (100

and 5,250 ft) elevation and are characterized by a 2 to 20 m (6.5 to 65

ft) canopy and a diverse understory of shrubs, herbs, and ferns. The

annual rainfall of 120 to 380 cm (45 to 150 in) falls predominantly

between October and March (Gagne and Cuddihy 1990). Lowland mesic

forests often grade into lowland wet forests that are typically found

on the windward sides of islands or in sheltered leeward situations

between 100 and 1,200 m (330 and 3,940 ft) elevation. The rainfall in

this lowland wet community may exceed 500 cm (200 in) per year. These

forests were once the predominant vegetation on Kauai but now exist

only on steep rocky terrain or cliff faces. The substrate is generally

well-drained soils that may support tree canopies up to 40 m (130 ft)

in height (Cuddihy and Stone 1990, Gagne and Cuddihy 1990). The habitat

of eight of the 19 taxa in this final rule extends to the higher

elevation montane mesic or wet forests. Alsinidendron lychnoides,

Delissea rivularis, and Schiedea helleri are the only taxa found

strictly within these montane communities, which typically occur above

910 m (3,000 ft) elevation (Hawaii Heritage Program (HHP) 1994a). The

annual rainfall in montane communities may exceed 700 cm (280 in)

(Gagne and Cuddihy 1990).

The land that supports these 19 plant taxa is owned by various

private parties and the State of Hawaii (including State parks, forest

reserves, and natural area reserves).

Discussion of the 19 Plant Taxa Included in This Final Rule

Alsinidendron lychnoides was first described by Wilhelm Hillebrand

(1888) as Schiedea lychnoides based on a specimen collected by Valdemar

Knudsen (between about 1853 and 1871) above Waimea, Kauai. While both

Hillebrand and Amos Heller (1897) believed that there were good reasons

to place Schiedea lychnoides in the genus Alsinidendron, it wasn't

until 1944 that Earl Sherff transferred the species to this genus.

Alsinidendron lychnoides, a member of the pink family

(Caryophyllaceae), is a weakly climbing or sprawling subshrub. The main

stems are 0.4 to 3 m (1.3 to 9.8 ft) long with short side branches. The

plant is woody, at least at the base, and densely covered with fine

glandular hairs throughout. The thin leaves are egg-shaped to elliptic

and are 3.5 to 6.5 cm (1.4 to 2.6 in) long and 1.5 to 3.8 cm (0.6 to

1.5 in) wide. Scattered clusters of 18 to 21 flowers range from 2 to

2.4 cm (0.8 to 0.9 in) in length. The four sepals are white and thin,

and remain so at maturity. The outer two sepals greatly overlap the

inner ones. The sepals are oblong-ovate, 10 to 12 millimeters (mm) (0.4

to 0.5 in) long, but enlarge to 12 to 16 mm (0.5 to 0.6 in) long in

fruit, completely enclosing the fruit at maturity. The stamens are

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scarcely fused at the base with basal outgrowths 2.5 to 3.5 mm (0.1 in)

long, nearly as wide, and two- to three-toothed. The fruit are egg-

shaped capsules, 9 to 12 mm (0.4 to 0.5 in) long, with 8 to 11 valves.

The black seeds are approximately 1 mm (0.04 in) long with low

transverse ridges on the surface. This 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. Alsinidendron lychnoides is closely related to

Alsinidendron viscosum, which differs primarily in having narrower

leaves, fewer capsule valves, and fewer flowers per cluster (Wagner et

al. 1990).

Historically, Alsinidendron lychnoides has been found 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 on the island of Kauai (HHP 1994b2 to 1994b4, 1994b7;

Wagner et al. 1990). This species is extant on State-owned land in the

Alakai Swamp, including the Alakai Wilderness Preserve, and on State-

owned land on the east rim of Kalalau Valley. This latter population

occurs on the boundary of Hono O Na Pali Natural Area Reserve (NAR) and

Na Pali Coast State Park. The four known populations contain a total of

between 50 and 100 plants (HHP 1994b1, 1994b5, 1994b6; Hawaii Plant

Conservation Center (HPCC) 1992a; Wood and Perlman 1993a; Yoshioka

1992; Diane Ragone, National Tropical Botanical Garden (NTBG), in litt.

1995). Alsinidendron lychnoides typically grows in montane wet forest

dominated by Metrosideros polymorpha ('ohi'a) and Cheirodendron sp.

('olapa), or by 'ohi'a and Dicranopteris linearis (uluhe), trailing on

the ground or on other vegetation, and at elevations between 1,100 and

1,320 m (3,600 and 4,330 ft). Associated plant species include Athyrium

sp., Carex sp., Cyrtandra sp. (ha'iwale), Machaerina sp. ('uki),

Vaccinium sp. ('ohelo), Peperomia sp. ('ala 'ala wai nui), Hedyotis

terminalis (manono), Astelia sp. (pa'iniu), and Broussaisia arguta

(kanawao) (HHP 1994b5, 1994b6; HPCC 1992a; Wagner et al. 1990; Marie M.

Bruegmann, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, in litt. 1994).

The major threats to Alsinidendron lychnoides are competition from

the aggressive alien plant species Rubus argutus (prickly Florida

blackberry), habitat degradation by feral pigs (Sus scrofa), and

trampling by humans. One plant has died since Hurricane 'Iniki struck

Kauai in September 1992. This species is also threatened by a risk of

extinction from naturally occurring events (such as landslides or

hurricanes) and/or reduced reproductive vigor due to the small number

of extant individuals (Center for Plant Conservation (CPC) 1990; HHP

1994b1, 1994b5, 1994b6; HPCC 1992a; M. Bruegmann, in litt. 1994).

Horace Mann, Jr. (1866) originally described Alsinidendron viscosum

as Schiedea viscosa based on a collection he made with William Brigham

(between 1864 and 1865) on Kauai (Wagner et al. 1990). He chose the

specific name in reference to the sticky hairs covering the whole

plant. Later, Sherff (1944) placed the taxon in the genus Alsinidendron

based on a reassessment of this species and Schiedea lychnoides, as

suggested by Hillebrand (1888) and Heller (1897).

Alsinidendron viscosum, a member of the pink family, is a weakly

climbing or sprawling subshrub. The stems are 0.6 to 3 m (2.0 to 9.8

ft) long, and densely covered with fine glandular hairs throughout. The

thin and membranous leaves are narrowly elliptic and are 2.5 to 5 cm

(1.0 to 2.0 in) long and 0.8 to 1.8 cm (0.3 to 0.7 in) wide. Usually

three to nine flowers are arranged in loose clusters with stalks

ranging from 2 to 3.5 cm (0.8 to 1.4 in) long. The four sepals are

white, thin, and membranous, and remain so at maturity. The outer two

sepals greatly overlap the inner ones. The sepals are oblong in shape

and 8 to 9 mm (0.3 in) long, but enlarge to approximately 12 mm (0.5

in) long in fruit, completely enclosing the fruit at maturity. The

stamens are sparsely fused at the base and the basal outgrowths are

about 3 mm (0.1 in) long, nearly as wide, and two-toothed. The fruits

are egg-shaped capsules, 8 to 12 mm (0.3 to 0.5 in) long, and opening

by five to seven valves. The seeds are dark reddish brown, and

approximately 0.8 mm (0.03 in) long with a minutely hairy surface. This

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. Alsinidendron viscosum is

closely related to Alsinidendron lychnoides, which differs primarily in

having wider leaves and more capsule valves and flowers per cluster

(Wagner et al. 1990).

Historically, Alsinidendron viscosum was known from the

Kaholuamano, Kokee, Halemanu, Nawaimaka, and Waialae areas of

northwestern Kauai (HHP 1994c1 to 1994c3). This species had not been

seen since Charles Noyes Forbes' 1917 collection near Kauaikinana in

Kokee when, in 1991, Steven Perlman and Kenneth Wood of HPCC discovered

a population of 11 mature plants on the ridge between Waialae and

Nawaimaka valleys. In 1993, another 20 to 30 plants were discovered in

the same general area on a north-facing ridge in Nawaimaka Valley. In

1992, Timothy Flynn and David Lorence of the National Tropical

Botanical Garden (NTBG) located 10 plants along the Mohihi-Waialae

Trail. The two known populations (two subpopulations in Nawaimaka

Valley and one population on Mohihi-Waialae Trail) total between 40 and

60 mature plants on State-owned land. One population is within the

Alakai Wilderness Preserve (Flynn and Lorence 1992; HHP 1994c4; HPCC

1993a1, 1993a2; Yoshioka 1992; Flynn and Wood, NTBG, pers. comms.

1994). Alsinidendron viscosum is typically found at elevations between

820 and 1,070 m (2,700 and 3,510 ft), on steep slopes in Acacia koa

(koa)-'ohi'a lowland mesic or wet forest. Associated plant species

include Alyxia oliviformis (maile), Bobea sp. ('ahakea), Carex sp.,

Dodonaea viscosa ('a'ali'i), Ilex anomala ('aiea), Melicope sp.

(alani), Pleomele sp. (hala pepe), and Psychotria sp. (kopiko) (HHP

1994c4; HPCC 1993a1, 1993a2; Flynn and Lorence 1992; Wagner et al.

1990; K. Wood, pers. comm. 1994).

Destruction of habitat by feral pigs and goats (Capra hircus);

competition with the alien plant species prickly Florida blackberry,

Lantana camara (lantana), and Melinis minutiflora (molasses grass); and

a risk of extinction from naturally occurring events and/or reduced

reproductive vigor, due to the small number of extant populations and

individuals, are the major threats to Alsinidendron viscosum (HHP

1994c4; HPCC 1993a1, 1993a2; S. Perlman, and K. Wood, NTBG, pers.

comms. 1994; Christa Russell, The Nature Conservancy of Hawaii (TNCH),

in litt. 1994).

While a member of the Austrian East Asiatic Exploring Expedition,

Dr. Heinrich Wawra collected a new lobelioid on Kauai which he later

described and named Delissea recta (Wawra 1873). In 1888, Hillebrand

transferred this species to the genus Cyanea, and this is the name

accepted in the current treatment of the family (Lammers 1990). Other

published names that Lammers (1990) considers to be synonymous with

Cyanea recta include Cyanea larrisonii, Cyanea rockii, Cyanea salicina,

Delissea larrisonii, and Delissea rockii (Rock 1915, St. John 1987b,

Wimmer 1968).

Cyanea recta, a member of the bellflower family, is an unbranched

shrub 1 to 1.5 m (3.3 to 4.9 ft) tall. The

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narrowly elliptic leaves are 12 to 28 cm (4.7 to 11 in) long and 1.2 to

5 cm (0.5 to 2 in) wide, with minutely toothed margins. The upper

surface is green and smooth, while the lower surface is whitish green

to pale green, and smooth or hairy. Five to seven flowers are arranged

on an inflorescence stalk 7 to 10 cm (3 to 4 in) long, each having an

individual stalk 5 to 17 mm (0.2 to 0.7 in) in length. The densely

hairy flowers are purple or white with purple longitudinal stripes, 30

to 40 mm (1.2 to 1.6 in) long, and 3 to 4 mm (0.1 to 0.2 in) wide, with

spreading lobes. The staminal column is smooth or sparsely hairy at the

base. The anthers are covered with minute epidermal projections, the

lower two with tufts of white hairs at the tip. The fruit is an egg-

shaped, purple berry. Cyanea recta is distinguished from other species

in the genus that grow on Kauai by the following collective

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).

Historically, Cyanea recta was known from scattered locations of

northeastern and central Kauai, including upper Hanalei Valley, Waioli

Valley, Hanapepe Valley, Kalalau cliffs, Wainiha Valley, Makaleha

Mountains, Limahuli Valley, Powerline Trail, and the Lehua Makanoe-

Alakai area (HHP 1994d1 to 1994d7). Currently, six populations of this

species, totalling approximately 500 to 1,500 individuals, are found on

State and private land in the following areas: upper Waioli Valley,

with more than 150 plants; Wainiha Valley, with several hundreds of

plants; Makaleha Mountains, with an estimated 123 plants; Limahuli

Valley with fewer than 50 plants; Powerline Trail with a single plant;

and the back of Hanalei Valley with an unknown number of plants (HHP

1994d3, 1994d8 to 1994d10; HPCC 1992b, 1993c1, 1993c2; Lorence and

Flynn 1993a, 1993b; K. Wood and S. Perlman, pers. comms. 1994). Cyanea

recta grows in lowland wet or mesic 'ohi'a forest or shrubland, usually

in gulches or on slopes, and typically from 400 to 940 m (1,300 to

3,070 ft) elevation. Associated plant species include kopiko, Antidesma

sp. (hame), Cheirodendron platyphyllum (lapalapa), Cibotium sp.

(hapu'u), and Diplazium sp. (HHP 1992; HPCC 1992b, 1993c1, 1993c2;

Lammers 1990; Lorence and Flynn 1993a, 1993b).

The major threats to Cyanea recta are bark removal by rats; habitat

degradation by feral pigs; browsing by goats; and competition with the

alien plant species Blechnum occidentale (blechnum fern), lantana,

Rubus rosifolius (thimbleberry), Clidemia hirta (Koster's curse),

Crassocephalum crepidioides, Deparia petersenii, Erechtites

valerianifolia (fireweed), Melastoma candidum, Paspalum conjugatum

(Hilo grass), Sacciolepis indica (Glengrass), and Youngia japonica

(Oriental hawksbeard) (Lorence and Flynn 1993a, 1993b; Wood and Perlman

1993b; K. Wood, pers. comm. 1994).

The French naturalist and ethnologist Ezechiel Jules Remy first

collected Cyanea remyi on Kauai or Niihau between 1851 and 1855. The

specimen, labelled as an unidentified Delissea, languished in the

herbarium of the Natural History Museum in Paris until Joseph Rock

formally described it and named it in honor of the collector, in 1917.

In the current treatment of the family, Lammers (1990) surmised that

the taxon may be synonymous with Cyanea truncata due, at that time, to

the inadequate material available for study. However, several recent

collections by botanists from NTBG have confirmed the distinctness of

this species (Lammers 1993; Thomas Lammers, Field Museum of Natural

History, and S. Perlman, pers. comms. 1994).

Cyanea remyi, a member of the bellflower family, is a shrub 0.9 to

2 m (3 to 6.6 ft) tall with generally unbranched stems 1 to 2.5 cm (0.4

to 1 in) in diameter. The stems are erect, unarmed (lacking prickles),

dark purple and hairy toward the apex, and brown and hairless below.

The leaves are broadly elliptic, egg-shaped, or broadly oblong, and 16

to 40 cm (6 to 16 in) long and 9.5 to 19.5 cm (3.7 to 7.7 in) wide. The

upper leaf surface is green, glossy, and hairless. The lower leaf

surface is whitish green and glossy with scattered short white hairs on

the midrib and veins. The leaf margins are hardened and slightly

toothed. The inflorescence rises upward, contains six to 13 flowers,

and is covered with short white hairs. The dark maroon sepal lobes are

triangular or narrowly triangular, spreading or ascending, and 4 to 6

mm (0.2 in) long and 1 to 2 mm (0.04 to 0.08 in) wide. The tubular

flowers, 40 to 53 mm (2 in) long, have two lips, are dark purple

(shading to purplish white at the apex of the lobes on their inner

surface), and are densely covered with short white hairs. The flower

tube is curved, 30 to 31 mm (1 in) long and 5 to 5.5 mm (0.2 in) in

diameter. The staminal column is slightly protruding. The maroon or

dark purple fruit is a round berry, 10 to 13 mm (0.4 to 0.5 in) in

diameter, with orange flesh and small projections on the outer surface.

Cyanea remyi is distinguished from others in the genus that grow on

Kauai by its shrubby habit; relatively slender, unarmed (lacking

prickles) 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 and

Lorence 1993).

Cyanea remyi was originally known only from Remy's nineteenth

century collection. In 1991, after more than 130 years, Cyanea remyi

was rediscovered in the Blue Hole on Kauai by botanists from NTBG.

Currently, this species is known from four widely separated locations

in northeastern and southeastern Kauai: a population of 14 plants in

Waioli Valley; several hundred plants at the base of Mount Waialeale;

about 140 to 180 plants in the Wahiawa Mountains, near Hulua; and a

population of about ten to 50 plants on the summit plateau of the

Makaleha Mountains. This species, therefore, totals over several

hundred plants on State and private land. Cyanea remyi is usually found

in lowland wet forest or shrubland at an elevation of 360 to 930 m

(1,180 to 3,060 ft). Associated plant species include hame, kanawao,

'ohi'a, Freycinetia arborea ('ie'ie), and Perrottetia sandwicensis

(olomea) (HHP 1992, 1994e; HPCC 1991a1, 1991a2, 1992c; Lorence and

Flynn 1991, 1993a, 1993b).

Competition with the alien plant species fireweed, Hilo grass,

Psidium cattleianum (strawberry guava), thimbleberry, and Melastoma

candidum; habitat degradation by feral pigs; browsing by goats;

predation by rats; unidentified slugs that feed on the stems; and a

risk of extinction from naturally occurring events, due to the small

number of remaining populations, are the major threats to Cyanea remyi

(HPCC 1991a1, 1991a2, 1992c; Lorence and Flynn 1991, 1993b; S. Perlman,

pers. comm. 1994).

In 1909, Rock collected a plant specimen on Kauai that he named

Cyrtandra cyaneoides (Rock 1913a). The specific epithet refers to the

resemblance of this distinctive plant to a species of the endemic

Hawaiian genus Cyanea.

Cyrtandra cyaneoides, a member of the African violet family

(Gesneriaceae), is an erect or ascending, fleshy, unbranched shrub,

about 1 to 1.3 m (3.3 to 4.3 ft) tall. The opposite, symmetrical, egg-

shaped leaves are fleshy and leathery, 40 to 55 cm (16 to 22 in) long

and 22 to 35 cm (9 to 14 in) wide. The upper surface of the toothed

leaves is wrinkled with impressed veins and sparsely covered with long

hairs. The lower surface has raised veins and is sparsely covered with

hairs. The leaf

[[Page 53074]]

stalks are 4.5 to 14 cm (1.8 to 5.5 in) long and winged. The white

flowers, covered with shaggy brown hairs, arise from the leaf axils in

small dense clusters. The corolla tube (fused petals) is narrowly

funnelform, curved near the middle, about 25 mm (1 in) long, and

hairless. The corolla lobes are elliptic and about 7 mm (0.3 in) long.

The bilaterally symmetrical calyx is spindle-shaped in bud and about 26

to 36 mm (1 to 1.4 in) in length when the flower is fully open, but

falls off after the flower matures. The fruit is an egg-shaped berry

which is covered with shaggy hairs, at least when young. Although

poorly known, Cyrtandra cyaneoides is a very distinctive species

(Wagner et al. 1990). It differs from others of the genus that grow on

Kauai by being a succulent, erect or ascending shrub and having a

bilaterally symmetrical calyx that is spindle-shaped in bud and that

falls off after flowering; leaves with a wrinkled surface, 40 to 55 cm

(16 to 22 in) long and 22 to 35 cm (9 to 14 in) wide; and berries with

shaggy hairs (Wagner et al. 1990).

Cyrtandra cyaneoides was originally known only from the type

collection made at Kaholuamanu 80 years ago, along the trail to Waialae

Valley on the island of Kauai (HHP 1994f1, Wagner et al. 1990). In

1991, botanists from NTBG discovered a population of 50 to 100

individuals at Namolokama above Lumahai Valley. Three additional

populations were discovered over the next 2 years: one plant on the

Makaleha Plateau; more than 300 plants in Wainiha Valley; and one plant

in upper Waioli Valley for a total of between 350 and 400 plants (HHP

1994f2; Lorence and Flynn 1993a, 1993b; Wood and Perlman 1993b). The

four known populations occur on private and State land, between 550 and

1,220 m (1,800 and 4,000 ft) elevation. This species typically grows on

steep slopes or cliffs near streams or waterfalls in lowland or montane

wet forest or shrubland dominated by 'ohi'a or a mixture of 'ohi'a and

uluhe. Associated species include Boehmeria grandis ('akolea), Pipturus

sp. (mamaki), 'olapa, 'uki, Athyrium sp., and Hedyotis sp. (manono)

(Lorence and Flynn 1993a, 1993b; Wood and Perlman 1993b).

The major threat to Cyrtandra cyaneoides is competition with alien

plant species such as fireweed, Hilo grass, thimbleberry, Deparia

petersenii, and Drymaria cordata (pipili). Because of the small number

of known populations, this species is especially vulnerable to

extinction by reduced reproductive vigor and/or naturally occurring

events (for example, landslides and hurricanes). Feral pigs are

reported to occur in lower Wainiha Valley; however, no evidence exists

of their incursion into the upper valley to date (HHP 1994f2; HPCC

1993d; Lorence and Flynn 1993a, 1993b; S. Perlman, pers. comm. 1994).

In 1909, Rock collected a plant specimen on Kauai that he later

named Cyanea rivularis (Rock 1913b). In 1943, F.E. Wimmer transferred

this species to Delissea, and Lammers (1990) concurred in the current

treatment of this endemic Hawaiian genus. The specific epithet refers

to streams or brooks, the typical habitat of this plant.

Delissea rivularis, a member of the bellflower family, is a shrub,

unbranched or branched near the base, with hairy stems 4 to 5 m (13 to

16 ft) long. The leaves are arranged in a rosette at the tips of the

stems. The elliptic to lance-shaped leaves are 20 to 30 cm (8 to 12 in)

long and 3 to 8 cm (1.2 to 3.2 in) wide, with minutely toothed margins.

Both leaf surfaces are covered with hairs. Six to twelve flowers are

arranged on an inflorescence stalk 4 to 8 cm (1.6 to 3.2 in) long, each

having an individual stalk 10 to 15 mm (0.4 to 0.6 in) in length. The

curved, hairy flowers are white with blue longitudinal stripes, 30 to

40 mm (1.2 to 1.6 in) long, with one dorsal knob. The fruit is a

spherical, dark purple berry 10 to 15 mm (0.4 to 0.6 in) in diameter.

This 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

1990).

Historically, Delissea rivularis was known from Waiakealoha

waterfall (location unknown), Waialae Valley, Hanakoa Valley, and

Kaholuamano on the island of Kauai (HHP 1994g1 to 1994g3, Lammers

1990). This species, recently recollected after almost 80 years, is now

known only from the upper Hanakoa Valley stream area of northwestern

Kauai (HPCC 1993e; S. Perlman, pers. comm. 1994). This population of 15

to 20 plants, scattered over an area of more than 100 sq m (1,100 sq

ft), is on State land within the Hono O Na Pali NAR at about 1,190 m

(3,900 ft) elevation. Delissea rivularis is found on steep slopes in

'ohi'a-'olapa montane wet or mesic forest, near streams. Associated

native species include kanawao, Athyrium sp., Carex sp., Coprosma sp.

(pilo), and Sadleria sp. ('ama'u) (HPCC 1993e; Lammers 1990; S.

Perlman, pers. comm. 1994).

The major threats to Delissea rivularis are competition with the

encroaching alien plant prickly Florida blackberry, habitat destruction

by feral pigs, and reduced reproductive vigor and/or a risk of

extinction from naturally occurring events due to the small number of

remaining individuals in the single remaining population (HPCC 1993e;

S. Perlman, pers. comm. 1994).

In 1991, several new species were collected by K. Wood, M. Query,

and Steve Montgomery on the cliff walls of Kalalau Valley, Kauai,

including a new species in the endemic Hawaiian genus Hibiscadelphus.

Hibiscadelphus woodii was described in 1995 by Lorence and Warren

Wagner (1995; Wood and Perlman 1993a; D. Lorence and K. Wood, pers.

comms. 1994).

Hibiscadelphus woodii, a member of the mallow family (Malvaceae),

is a small branched tree 2.5 to 5 m (8.2 to 16.4 ft) tall with a

rounded crown. The leaves have stalks 2.8 to 5.8 cm (1.1 to 2.3 in)

long, with star-shaped hairs when young which are mostly lost as the

leaf matures. Awl-shaped stipules, also covered with star-shaped hairs,

are found at the base of the leaf stalk. The leaf blade is ovate, 7 to

9 cm (2.6 to 3.5 in) long, and 6.5 to 8.4 cm (2.6 to 3.3 in) wide.

Star-shaped hairs are scattered along the veins of the leaves. The leaf

margins are irregularly and coarsely toothed with the teeth either

pointed or rounded. Flowers are borne individually on stalks 1.4 to 2.1

cm (0.6 to 0.8 in) long with star-shaped hairs. Below each flower are

four to six bracts 11 to 15 mm (0.4 to 0.6 in) long and 1.8 to 4 mm

(0.07 to 0.16 in) wide. The calyx is tubular, 1.3 to 1.5 cm (0.5 to 0.6

in) long, green, shallowly lobed, and moderately hairy with star-shaped

hairs. The corolla is 4.5 to 4.7 cm (1.8 to 1.9 in) long, yellow with a

coppery tinge when fresh which rapidly turns purplish-maroon. The

staminal column extends about 7 mm (0.3 in) beyond the lobes of the

corolla. Fruits are not known from this species. Hibiscadelphus woodii

differs from the other known Kauai species by differences in leaf

surface and involucral bract characters, and by flower color (Lorence

and Wagner 1995; D. Lorence, pers. comm. 1994).

Hibiscadelphus woodii is known only from the site of its discovery

in Kalalau Valley on the island of Kauai within the Na Pali Coast State

Park, from about 990 to 1,000 m (3,250 to 3,280 ft) elevation. Only

four trees of this species are known. The plants grow on cliff walls in

an 'ohi'a montane mesic forest with alani, Dubautia sp. (na'ena'e),

Lepidium serra ('anaunau), Lipochaeta sp. (nehe), Lysimachia sp.,

Chamaesyce sp. ('akoko), manono, Nototrichium sp. (kulu'i), Myrsine sp.

(kolea), and the federally endangered species Stenogyne campanulata,

Lobelia niihauensis, and Poa mannii (Mann's bluegrass) (HPCC

[[Page 53075]]

1991c; Lorence and Wagner 1995; D. Lorence and K. Wood, pers. comms.

1994).

Habitat degradation by feral goats and pigs, competition and

invasion by the alien plant species Erigeron karvinskianus (daisy

fleabane), nectar robbing by Japanese white-eye (Zosterops japonicus),

and a risk of extinction from naturally occurring events (e.g., rock

slides) and/or reduced reproductive vigor, due to the small number of

existing individuals in the only known population, are the major

threats to Hibiscadelphus woodii (HPCC 1991c; Lorence and Wagner 1995;

D. Lorence, pers. comm. 1994).

Reverend John Mortimer Lydgate collected Hibiscus waimeae ssp.

hannerae on Kauai in 1913, and more than 60 years passed before it was

collected again, in 1978, by Perlman. Otto and Isa Degener named

Lydgate's collection as a variety of H. waimeae in honor of Mrs. Ruth

Knudsen Hanner, a supporter of their work on Kauai (Degener and Degener

1962). David M. Bates, the author of the current treatment of the

Hawaiian members of the family, elevated the plant to subspecies rank

(Bates 1989, 1990).

Hibiscus waimeae ssp. hannerae, a member of the mallow family, is a

gray-barked tree, 6 to 10 m (20 to 33 ft) tall, with star-shaped hairs

densely covering its leaf and flower stalks and branchlets. The

circular to broadly egg-shaped leaves are usually 5 to 18 cm (2 to 7

in) long and 3 to 13 cm (1.2 to 5 in) wide. The strongly fragrant

flowers are borne singly near the ends of the branches on flower stalks

2 to 3 cm (0.8 to 1.2 in) long. The calyx is tubular, normally 3 to 4.5

cm (1.2 to 1.8 in) long, with lobes 8 to 15 mm (0.2 to 0.6 in) long.

The flaring petals are white when the flower opens in the morning, but

fade to pinkish in the afternoon. The petals, usually 4 to 6 cm (1.6 to

2.4 in) long, are basally attached to the staminal column to form a

tube about 1.5 cm (0.6 in) long. The exserted staminal column is up to

15 cm (6 in) long and reddish to crimson at the tip. The filaments

arise in the upper half of the staminal column and spread up to 2.5 cm

(1 in) long. The fruit is a cartilaginous, egg-shaped capsule 1.8 to

2.5 cm (0.7 to 1 in) long and hairless. Two subspecies are recognized,

both occurring on Kauai: ssp. hannerae and ssp. waimeae. Subspecies

hannerae is distinguished by having larger leaves but smaller flowers

(Bates 1990). The 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 (Bates 1990).

Three collections of Hibiscus waimeae ssp. hannerae are known, all

from the island of Kauai (HHP 1994i2). The Kalihiwai population of this

subspecies is apparently extinct and the two remaining populations are

found in adjacent valleys on Kauai's northern coast on State and

private land, and total between 75 and 125 individuals. Between 50 and

100 plants are scattered over a 100 sq m (1,100 sq ft) area along the

stream in Limahuli Valley, and another 50 or so plants were distributed

over a 10 to 100 sq m (110 to 1,100 sq ft) area below the cliffs in the

back of Hanakapiai Valley before Hurricane 'Iniki (HPCC 1990a, 1991d).

After the hurricane, only 25 plants remain in Hanakapiai Valley (M.

Bruegmann, in litt. 1994). In Limahuli Valley, H. waimeae ssp. hannerae

is growing in an 'ohi'a-uluhe lowland wet forest between 190 and 560 m

(620 and 1,850 ft) elevation. At this location, associated species

include 'ahakea, 'ama'u, haha, ha'iwale, and Syzygium sp. The

Hanakapiai Valley population is growing in Pisonia sp. (papala kepau)--

Charpentiera elliptica (papala) lowland mesic forest with 'ahakea,

hame, kopiko, mamaki, and the alien species Aleurites moluccana

(kukui), between 220 and 370 m (720 and 1,200 ft) (Bates 1990; HHP

1990a, 1994i1, 1994i2; HPCC 1990a, 1991d).

The major threats to Hibiscus waimeae ssp. hannerae are habitat

degradation by feral pigs; competition with alien plant species,

including thimbleberry, Koster's curse, and lantana; and a risk of

extinction from naturally occurring events (e.g., hurricanes) and/or

reduced reproductive vigor due to the small number of remaining

populations (HHP 1994i2, 1994i3; HPCC 1990a, 1991d; M. Bruegmann, in

litt. 1994).

In 1919, Rock and Augustus Knudsen collected a specimen of a tree

that Rock (1919) named as Kokia rockii var. kauaiensis. Later, Otto

Degener and Albert Duvel (1934) elevated the variety to a full species,

Kokia kauaiensis. The current treatment of the family upholds this

designation (Bates 1990).

Kokia kauaiensis, a member of the mallow family, is a tree 5 to 10

m (16.4 to 33 ft) tall. The seven- or nine-lobed, circular leaves are

12 to 25 cm (5 to 10 in) wide with a heart-shaped base. The solitary,

brick-red flowers are clustered near the ends of the branches on stout

flower stalks 3 to 9 cm (1.2 to 3.5 in) long. The broadly egg-shaped

floral bracts are 4 to 6 cm (1.5 to 2.4 in) long and hairless except

toward the base, which has a sparse covering of long, soft hairs. The

curved petals, 10 to 15 cm (4 to 6 in) long, are twisted at the base

and densely covered with yellowish, silky hairs. The fruit is an egg-

shaped capsule. The egg-shaped seeds are 10 to 12 mm (0.4 to 0.5 in)

long and densely covered with reddish, woolly hairs up to 10 mm (0.4

in) long. This 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 1990).

Kokia kauaiensis is known from six scattered populations on

northwestern Kauai, but only five of these populations have been

relocated within the last six years (HHP 1994j1 to 1994j4). The five

extant populations are found on State land in the following areas:

Paaiki Valley; Mahanaloa-Kuia Valley junction within or on the boundary

of Kuia NAR; the western side of Kalalau Valley, and Pohakuao Valley,

both within Na Pali Coast State Park; and Koaie Stream branch of Waimea

Canyon, where some plants may be within the boundary of the Alakai

Wilderness Preserve. The three largest populations contain between 30

and 70 individuals each, with the others each numbering fewer than 10

individuals. Estimates of the total number of individuals range from

145 to 170 (HHP 1994j1, 1994j3 to 1994j6; Joel Lau, Hawaii Heritage

Program, and S. Perlman, pers. comms. 1994). This species typically

grows in diverse mesic forest at elevations between 475 and 795 m

(1,960 and 2,600 ft). Associated species include 'ahakea, koa, kukui,

Diospyros sandwicensis (lama), manono, hala pepe, papala, Nestegis

sandwicensis (olopua), and 'ohi'a (Bates 1990; HHP 1990a, 1994j1,

1994j3 to 1994j6; HPCC 1990b1 to 1990b3; Wood and Perlman 1993a; M.

Bruegmann, in litt. 1994; J. Lau, pers. comm. 1994).

Competition with and habitat degradation by the invasive alien

plant species lantana, Passiflora ligularis (sweet granadilla),

thimbleberry, Kalanchoe pinnata (air plant), strawberry guava, and

Triumfetta semitriloba (Sacramento bur); substrate loss; habitat

degradation and browsing by feral goats and mule deer (Odocoileus

hemionus); predation by rats, which eat the seeds; and a risk of

extinction from naturally occurring events due to the small number of

remaining populations are the major threats affecting the survival of

Kokia kauaiensis (HHP 1994j1, 1994j3 to 1994j6; HPCC 1990b1 to 1990b3;

Wood and Perlman 1993a; M. Bruegmann, in

[[Page 53076]]

litt. 1994; J. Lau, S. Perlman, and K. Wood, pers. comms. 1994).

Based upon a specimen collected by Perlman on Kauai in 1980, Harold

St. John (1984) described Labordia tinifolia var. wahiawaensis, naming

it for the Wahiawa Mountains where it was first collected.

Labordia tinifolia var. wahiawaensis, a member of the logania

family (Loganiaceae), is a shrub or small tree, usually 2 to 8 m (6.6

to 26.2 ft) tall. The young branches are cylindrical or nearly so and

hairless. The elliptic to lance-shaped leaves are usually 4.5 to 21 cm

(1.8 to 8.3 in) long and 2 to 5 cm (0.8 to 2 in) wide. The membranous

leaves are medium green, hairless, and the veins are not impressed on

the upper leaf surface. Normally, 9 to 12 hairless flowers are

clustered on a downward curving inflorescence stalk 9 to 22 mm (0.35 to

0.9 in) long, each having an individual stalk 8 to 11 mm (0.2 to 0.4

in) in length. The pale yellowish green flower is narrowly urn-shaped,

17 to 19 mm (0.7 to 0.75 in) long. The tubular portion of the flower is

5.5 to 7.8 mm (0.2 to 0.3 in) long with long, white hairs inside, while

the egg-shaped lobes are 1.7 to 2.3 mm (0.07 to 0.09 in) long. The

fruit is an egg-shaped capsule, 8 to 17 mm (0.2 to 0.7 in) long,

usually with two valves and an apex with a beak 0.5 to 1.5 mm (0.02 to

0.1 in) long. Three varieties of Labordia tinifolia are recognized:

var. lanaiensis on Lanai and Molokai, var. tinifolia on Kauai and four

other islands, and var. wahiawaensis, endemic to Kauai. Variety

wahiawaensis is distinguished from the other two by its larger corolla.

This 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 corolla lobes usually 1.7 to

2.3 mm (0.1 in) long (Wagner et al. 1990).

Labordia tinifolia var. wahiawaensis is only known from the Wahiawa

Drainage in the Wahiawa Mountains of Kauai from about 630 to 740 m

(2,070 to 2,430 ft) elevation on privately owned land, within a 0.8 by

1.2 km (0.5 by 0.75 mi) area (HHP 1994k; HPCC 1991e1, 1991e2; Lorence

and Flynn 1991). More than 100 plants were known from the area before

Hurricane 'Iniki swept over Kauai in 1992. During a 1994 visit to the

area, only 20 to 30 surviving individuals were found (S. Perlman, pers.

comm. 1994). The plants grow along streams in lowland wet forests

dominated by 'ohi'a and often in association with 'olapa or uluhe.

Plants found in association with this taxon include ha'iwale, hame,

kopiko, manono, and Athyrium sp. (HPCC 1991e1, 1991e2).

The primary threats to the remaining individuals of Labordia

tinifolia var. wahiawaensis are competition with the alien plant

strawberry guava, habitat degradation by pigs, trampling by humans, and

a risk of extinction from naturally occurring events and/or reduced

reproductive vigor due to the small number of individuals in the only

known population (HPCC 1991e1, 1991e2; S. Perlman, pers. comm. 1994).

Lydgate first collected Myrsine linearifolia on Kauai in 1912.

Edward Hosaka (1940) chose the specific epithet to describe its

distinctive linear-lanceolate curved leaves. In an action that was not

supported by other taxonomists, Otto and Isa Degener (1971, 1975)

transferred several species from the genus Myrsine to the genus Rapanea

based upon minute floral features. The currently accepted treatment of

the Hawaiian members of the family follows Hosaka's earlier, broad

concept of Myrsine (Wagner et al. 1990).

Myrsine linearifolia, a member of the myrsine family (Myrsinaceae),

is a branched shrub, 2.5 to 8 m (8.2 to 26.2 ft) tall. The slightly

fleshy, linear leaves are 5 to 9 cm (1.7 to 3 in) long, 0.25 to 0.4 cm

(0.09 to 0.14 in) wide, often yellowish purple toward the base, and

tend to be clustered toward the upper branches. The margins of the

leaves are smooth and roll slightly toward the underside of the leaf.

One to three apparently perfect (containing male and female parts)

flowers, on stalks 1 to 4.2 mm (0.04 to 0.17 in) long, occur in

clusters among the leaves. The greenish petals are inversely lance-

shaped, about 2.2 to 2.5 mm (0.09 to 0.1 in) long, and also have

margins fringed with hairs. At maturity, the fruits are black elliptic-

shaped drupes, about 6 mm (0.2 in) long. This 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.

1990).

Historically, Myrsine linearifolia was known from nine scattered

locations on Kauai: Olokele Valley, Kalualea, Kalalau Valley and

Kahuamaa Flat, Limahuli-Hanakapiai Ridge, Koaie Stream, Pohakuao,

Namolokama Summit Plateau, and Haupu (HHP 1994L1, 1991L4, 1994L6,

1994L9). This species is currently known from six populations on State

and private land: Kalalau Valley including Kahuamaa Flat above Kalalau,

Limahuli-Hanakapiai Ridge, Wahiawa Drainage, Koaie Stream, Pohakuao,

and Namolokama Summit Plateau (HHP 1994L2, 1994L3, 1994L5, 1994L7; HPCC

1991f5; Wood and Perlman 1993a; J. Lau, pers. comm. 1994). Myrsine

linearifolia typically grows in mesic to wet 'ohi'a forests that are

sometimes co-dominant with 'olapa or uluhe from 585 to 1,280 m (1,920

to 4,200 ft) elevation (HHP 1994L2, 1994L3, 1994L5, 1994L7; HPCC

1991f5; Wood and Perlman 1993a; J. Lau and K. Wood, pers. comms. 1994).

The largest population, located in Kalalau Valley, contains several

hundreds of individuals (S. Perlman, pers. comm. 1994). The remaining

five populations total about 100 plants; hence, approximately 1,000 to

1,500 individuals are known for the entire species. Plants growing in

association with this species include 'ahakea, 'aiea, alani, Eurya

sandwicensis (anini), kopiko, Lysimachia sp., and native ferns.

Competition with alien plants such as daisy fleabane, lantana,

prickly Florida blackberry, strawberry guava, thimbleberry, and air

plant, and habitat degradation by ungulates such as pigs and goats are

major threats to Myrsine linearifolia (HPCC 1991f1 to 1991f5, 1993f; J.

Lau, S. Perlman, and K. Wood, pers. comms. 1994).

Hillebrand (1888) described Phyllostegia knudsenii from a specimen

collected by Knudsen in the 1800s. He chose the specific epithet to

honor the collector.

Phyllostegia knudsenii, a member of the mint family (Lamiaceae), is

an erect, perennial herb or vine. The opposite leaves are limp, ovate,

faintly pubescent, 11.5 to 18 cm (4.5 to 7 in) long, and 5.1 to 9 cm (2

to 3.5 in) wide. Flowers are borne in groups of two to four along a

flower stalk 4 to 6.5 cm (1.6 to 2.6 in) long. The corolla is 6 to 8 mm

(0.2 to 0.3 in) long. The fruits are four black fleshy nutlets in each

flower and are 1.5 to 2 mm (0.06 to 0.8 in) long. This species differs

from others in this genus in its specialized flower stalk. It differs

from the closely related Phyllostegia floribunda in often having four

flowers per group (Hillebrand 1888, HPCC 1993j, Sherff 1935, Wagner et

al. 1990).

Until 1993, Phyllostegia knudsenii was only known from the type

collection made in the 1800s, from the woods of Waimea (HHP 1991a,

Hillebrand 1888, Sherff 1935, Wagner et al. 1990). In 1993, botanists

at NTBG rediscovered one individual of this species in Koaie Canyon.

This species is found in 'ohi'a lowland mesic forest at 865 m (2,840

ft) elevation. Associated species include olomea, Cyrtandra kauaiensis

(ulunahele), Cyrtandra paludosa (moa), Elaeocarpus bifidus (kalia),

Cryptocarya mannii (holio), Doodia kunthiana, Selaginella arbuscula,

lama, Zanthoxylum dipetalum (a'e), Pittosporum sp.

[[Page 53077]]

(ho'awa), Pouteria sandwicensis ('ala'a), and Pritchardia minor (loulu)

(HPCC 1993j; S. Perlman, pers. comm. 1994).

Major threats to Phyllostegia knudsenii include habitat degradation

by pigs and goats; competition with alien plant species such as pipili,

Hilo grass, lantana, and air plant; and a risk of extinction from

naturally occurring events (e.g., landslides) and reduced reproductive

vigor due to the small number of individuals in the only known

population (HPCC 1993j).

Phyllostegia wawrana was described by Sherff (1934) from a

collection made in the 1800s. Sherff chose the specific epithet to

honor the collector, Dr. Heinrich Wawra.

Phyllostegia wawrana, a member of the mint family, is a perennial

vine that is woody toward the base and has long, crinkly hairs along

the stem. The leaves are opposite, ovate, and covered with hairs,

especially along the veins of the lower surface. The leaves are 10.5 to

20 cm (4.1 to 7.8 in) long and 4 to 11 cm (1.6 to 4.3 in) wide. Flowers

are borne in groups of four to six along a leafy flower stalk with one

or two short lateral branches. Each of these lateral branches have a

pair of leaves at the base. The corolla tube is about 10 mm (0.03 in)

long, with an upper lip about 2 mm (0.08 in) long. The fruits are four

greenish-black nutlets in each flower and are about 2 mm (0.8 in) long.

This species may be related to Phyllostegia floribunda and Phyllostegia

knudsenii, but has a less specialized flower stalk (Degener 1946,

Sherff 1934, Wagner et al. 1990).

Phyllostegia wawrana was reported from Hanalei in the 1800s and was

last observed along Kokee Stream in 1926, until 1993 when NTBG

botanists found two populations on State-owned land. Currently there

are a total of 20-30 individuals in the Makaleha Mountains and five or

six in Honopu Valley (HHP 1991b1, 1991b2; HPCC 1993k1, 1993k2; Sherff

1934, 1935; Wagner et al. 1990; D. Ragone, in litt. 1995). This species

grows in 'ohi'a-dominated forest with either 'olapa or uluhe as

codominant species. Associated species include Diplazium sandwichianum,

'ohelo, kanawao, kolea, kopiko, Dubautia knudsenii (na'ena'e), Scaevola

procera (naupaka kuahiwi), Gunnera sp., Pleomele aurea (hala pepe),

Claoxylon sandwicense (po'ola), Elaphoglossum sp., 'ala 'ala wai nui,

manono, hapu'u, 'ama'u, ho'awa, 'uki, and Syzygium sandwicensis ('ohi'a

ha) (HPCC 1993k1, 1993k2).

The major threats to Phyllostegia wawrana include degradation of

habitat by feral pigs and competition with alien plant species such as

thimbleberry, Passiflora mollissima (banana poka), prickly Florida

blackberry, Melastoma candidum, fireweed, and daisy fleabane (HPCC

1993k1, 1993k2).

St. John described Pritchardia napaliensis based upon a specimen

collected by Charles Christensen on Kauai in 1976 (St. John 1981). He

named this plant for the Na Pali Coast of Kauai where it was first

collected.

Pritchardia napaliensis, a member of the palm family (Arecaceae),

is a small palm with about 20 leaves and an open crown. The palm ranges

from 4 to 6 m (13 to 20 ft) tall and has a slender trunk measuring 18

to 20 cm (7 to 8 in) in diameter. The green leaf blades are about 85 cm

(33.5 in) long and are almost flat (irrespective of the longitudinal

folds). The lower leaf surface is covered with elliptic, pale, thin,

flexible, and somewhat translucent scales with fringed margins. Upon

maturity, the leaves are almost smooth and the leaf segments are lax,

flexible, and droop with increasing age. The flowers are arranged in

branched clusters about 14 cm (5.5 in) long which are equal or shorter

in length than the leaf stalks. Each flower is associated with a small,

bristly bract. Bracts associated with the flowers or flower stalks are

sparsely and inconspicuously coated with scales which are usually lost

at maturity. The black fruits are 1.7 to 2.3 cm (0.7 to 0.9 in) long,

1.4 to 1.8 cm (0.6 to 0.7 in) in diameter, and inversely egg-shaped.

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 fruits less than 3 cm (1.2 in) long (Read and Hodel 1990).

Pritchardia napaliensis is known from three locations on the island

of Kauai on State-owned land: Hoolulu and Waiahuakua valleys in the

Hono O Na Pali NAR and Alealau in Kalalau Valley (within or close to

the boundaries of Hono O Na Pali NAR and Na Pali Coast State Park) (HHP

1994m1, 1994m2; K. Wood, pers. comm. 1994). This species is not known

to occur anywhere else (HHP 1994m1, 1994m2). Pritchardia napaliensis

typically grows in a wide variety of habitats ranging from lowland dry

to mesic forests to montane wet forests dominated by lama and

sometimes, kukui, 'ohi'a, and uluhe from 150 to about 1,160 m (500 to

about 3,800 ft) elevation (HHP 1994m1, 1994m2; HPCC 1990c1, 1990c2,

1991g; S. Perlman and K. Wood, pers. comms. 1994). The largest

population in Hoolulu Valley contains between 60 and 80 plants and the

two other populations each contain hree or fewer plants, giving a total

of fewer than 90 known individuals for this species (HHP 1994m1,

1994m2; HPCC 1991g; S. Perlman and K. Wood, pers. comms. 1994). Several

associated plant species besides those mentioned above include hala

pepe, kopiko, Cordyline fruticosa (ti), Cheirodendron trigynum

('olapa), and Ochrosia sp. (holei) (HHP 1994m1, 1994m2; HPCC 1990c1,

1990c2, 1991g).

Major threats to Pritchardia napaliensis include habitat

degradation and/or grazing by goats and pigs; seed predation by rats;

competition with the alien plants air plant, daisy fleabane, lantana,

Psidium guajava (common guava), and possibly ti; and a risk of

extinction from naturally occurring events and/or reduced reproductive

vigor due to the small number of remaining populations and individuals

(HPCC 1990c1, 1990c2, 1991g; Donald Hodel, Univ. of California and

County of Los Angeles Cooperative Extension, in litt. 1995).

Pritchardia viscosa was first described by Rock in 1921, based on a

specimen he collected on Kauai a year earlier (Beccari and Rock 1921).

The specific epithet refers to the very viscous inflorescence, calyx,

and corolla.

Pritchardia viscosa, a member of the palm family, is a small palm 3

to 8 m (10 to 26 ft) tall. The lower surface of the leaf blades is

silvery grey and covered with small scales. The inflorescences are

about the same length as the leaf stalks and consist of one to three

loosely branched panicles, each about 15 to 20 cm (6 to 8 in) long. The

flowers occur in two opposite rows and are extremely sticky and shiny.

The elliptic, pear-shaped fruit are up to 4 cm (1.6 in) long and about

2.5 cm (1 in) wide. This species differs from others of the genus that

grow on Kauai by the degree of hairiness of lower surface of the leaves

and main axis of the flower cluster, and length of the flower cluster

(Read and Hodel 1990).

Historically, Pritchardia viscosa was known only from the 1920

collection from Kalihiwai Valley on the island of Kauai (HHP 1994n2).

It was not seen again until 1990, when naturalist John Obata and NTBG

botanist Ken Wood observed it in the same general area as Rock's type

locality off the Powerline Road at 510 m (1,680 ft) elevation on State

land (HHP 1994n1; Obata, pers. comm. 1991; S. Perlman, pers. comm.

1994). This population of one juvenile and two mature plants comprise

the only known extant individuals; three additional plants from this

population were destroyed by Hurricane 'Iniki in 1992. The plants are

found in an 'ohi'a-uluhe lowland wet forest associated with plant

species including 'aiea,

[[Page 53078]]

'ahakea, hame, hapu'u, and kopiko (S. Perlman, pers. comm. 1994).

Strawberry guava and alien grasses such as Hilo grass are major

threats to Pritchardia viscosa because these alien plants are effective

competitors for space, light, nutrients, and water. Rats are known to

eat the fruit of Pritchardia viscosa and are, therefore, a serious

threat to the reproductive success of this species (S. Perlman, pers.

comm. 1994). At least one of the remaining mature trees has been

damaged by spiked boots used either by a botanist or seed collector to

scale these trees (Hodel, in litt. 1995; Mehrhoff, in litt. 1994).

Also, because of the small numbers of individuals in the only known

population, this species is susceptible to extinction because a single

naturally occurring event (e.g., a hurricane) could destroy all

remaining plants.

In 1895, Heller collected a plant specimen on Kauai that Sherff

(1943) later named Schiedea helleri in honor of its collector. Listed

as possibly extinct in the current treatment of the family (Wagner et

al. 1990), Schiedea helleri was recently collected on Kauai by

botanists from NTBG (HPCC 1993g).

Schiedea helleri, a member of the pink family, is a vine. The

stems, smooth below and minutely hairy above, are probably prostrate

and at least 0.15 m (0.5 ft) long with internodes at least 4 to 15 cm

(1.6 to 6 in) long. The opposite leaves are somewhat thick and range

from 10 to 14 cm (4 to 5.5 in) long and 4.5 to 6 cm (1.8 to 2.4 in)

wide. The leaves are triangular, egg-shaped to heart-shaped,

conspicuously three-veined, and nearly hairless to sparsely covered

with short, fine hairs, especially along the margins. The perfect

flowers occur in loose, open branched clusters, each branch being 20 to

26 cm (8 to 10.2 in) long. The flower contains three styles and

probably ten stamens. The fruits are capsules, about 3 to 3.4 mm (0.12

to 0.13 in) long. This species differs from others of the genus that

grow on Kauai by its viney habit (Wagner et al. 1990).

Schiedea helleri was originally known only from a single location

above Waimea, at Kaholuamano on the island of Kauai, collected 100

years ago (HHP 1994o). In 1993, this species was discovered on a steep

wall above a side stream off Mohihi Stream, approximately 5.6 km (3.5

mi) north of the original location (HPCC 1993g). The only known

population consists of 30 to 40 mature individuals found on a steep

cliff in closed 'ohi'a-uluhe montane wet forest on State-owned land,

within or close to the Alakai Wilderness Preserve, at approximately

1,070 m (3,500 ft) elevation (HPCC 1993g; S. Perlman, pers. comm.

1994). Other native plants growing in association with this population

include hapu'u, kanawao, 'olapa, Cyanea hirtella (haha), Dianella

sandwicensis ('uki'uki), and Viola wailenalenae (HPCC 1993g). The

federally endangered Poa sandvicensis is also found here (M. Bruegmann,

in litt. 1994).

Competition with the noxious alien plant prickly Florida blackberry

and a risk of extinction from naturally occurring events and/or reduced

reproductive vigor, due to the small number of extant individuals in

the only known population, are serious threats to Schiedea helleri

(HPCC 1993g). Pigs have not yet been reported from this drainage, but

pose a potential threat since they are found in nearby areas (M.

Bruegmann, in litt. 1994).

Robert Hobdy collected a specimen of Schiedea membranacea on Kauai

in 1969. St. John (1972) later described and named the taxon. The

specific epithet refers to the membranous texture of the leaves.

Schiedea membranacea, a member of the pink family, is a perennial

herb. The unbranched, fleshy stems rise upwards from near the base and

are somewhat sprawling. They are 0.5 to 1 m (1.6 to 3.3 ft) long with

internodes 6 to 12 cm (2.4 to 4.7 in) long. During dry seasons, the

plant dies back to a woody, short stem at or beneath the ground

surface. The oppositely arranged leaves, 13 to 20 cm (5 to 8 in) long

and 5 to 8 cm (2 to 3.2 in) wide, are broadly elliptic to egg-shaped,

generally thin, have five to seven longitudinal veins, and are sparsely

covered with short, fine hairs. The perfect flowers have no petals, are

numerous, and occur in large branched clusters. The inflorescences are

about 25 to 27 cm (10 to 10.6 in) long. The purple, lance-shaped sepals

are about 2 mm (0.08 in) long and have thin, dry, membranous margins.

The flowers contain three to five styles and probably ten stamens. The

capsular fruits, 2.5 to 3 mm (0.1 to 0.12 in) long, are purple at the

apex. This species differs from others of the genus that grow on Kauai

by having five- to seven-nerved leaves and an herbaceous habit (Wagner

et al. 1990).

Schiedea membranacea is known from six current populations on the

western side of the island of Kauai: Mahanaloa-Kuia, Paaiki, Kalalau,

Nualolo, Wainiha and Waialae valleys on State (including Kuia NAR and

Na Pali Coast State Park) and privately owned land (HHP 1994p1 to

1994p3; Wood and Perlman 1993a; S. Perlman and K. Wood, pers. comms.

1994). This species is not known to have occurred at any other

locations. Although the number of plants of this species remaining in

Paaiki Valley is not known, about 200 to 250 individuals are known in

the other five populations (HHP 1994p1 to 1994p3; S. Perlman and K.

Wood, pers. comms. 1994). This species is typically found on cliffs and

cliff bases in a wide variety of mesic to wet habitats between 520 and

1,160 m (1,700 and 3,800 ft) elevation. The vegetation ranges from open

to closed lowland to montane shrubland to forest communities with

either a variety of canopy and understory species or dominated by

kukui, mamaki, or 'ohi'a (HHP 1994p1 to 1994p3; HPCC 1990d1 to 1990d3,

1991h, 1993h; S. Perlman, pers. comm. 1994).

Habitat degradation by feral ungulates (mule deer, goats, and

pigs); competition with the alien plant species daisy fleabane,

lantana, prickly Florida blackberry, thimbleberry, strawberry guava,

Ageratina adenophora (Maui pamakani), A. riparia (Hamakua pamakani),

and banana poka; and landslides are the primary threats to Schiedea

membranacea (CPC 1990; HPCC 1990d1 to 1990d3, 1991h, 1993h; Wood and

Perlman 1993a; M. Bruegmann, in litt. 1994; S. Perlman, pers. comm.

1994).

Mann and Brigham first collected a specimen of Schiedea

stellarioides in the mountains of Kauai between 1864 and 1865. Benedict

Hochreutiner (1925) and Sherff (1943, 1945, 1954) described several

varieties of this species, characterized only by slight differences in

leaf shape and size, that are not recognized in the current treatment

of the family (Wagner et al. 1990).

Schiedea stellarioides, a member of the pink family, is a slightly

erect to prostrate subshrub 0.3 to 0.6 m (1 to 2 ft) tall with branched

stems and internodes generally 3.5 to 6.5 cm (1.4 to 2.5 in) long. The

opposite leaves are very slender to oblong-elliptic, 2.7 to 8.2 cm (1.1

to 3.2 in) long, 0.2 to 1.3 cm (0.1 to 0.5 in) wide, and one-veined.

The perfect flowers lack petals and occur in open branched clusters.

The inflorescence ranges from 15 to 32 cm (6 to 12.6 in) long. The

flower stalks are 7 to 10 mm (0.28 to 0.4 in) long and the narrowly

egg-shaped sepals are 2.9 to 3.3 mm (0.11 to 0.13 in) long. The flowers

contain ten stamens, three styles, and a two-lobed nectary. The

capsular fruits are 2.2 to 3.4 mm (0.09 to 0.13 in) long and contain

tiny, dark brown, circular to kidney-shaped, slightly wrinkled seeds.

This species is distinguished from others of the genus that grow on

Kauai by the number of veins in the leaves, shape of the leaves,

presence of a leaf stalk, length of the

[[Page 53079]]

flower cluster, and shape of the seeds (Wagner et al. 1990).

Historically, Schiedea stellarioides was known from the sea cliffs

of Hanakapiai Beach, Kaholuamano-Opaewela region, the ridge between

Waialae and Nawaimaka valleys, and Haupu Range on the island of Kauai

(HHP 1994q1 to 1994q3). This species is now known only from the ridge

between Waialae and Nawaimaka valleys on State land, just 0.8 km (0.5

mi) northwest of the Kaholuamano-Opaewela region (HHP 1994q4). This

population of approximately 500 to 1,000 individuals is found on steep

slopes in a closed koa-'ohi'a lowland to montane mesic forest between

610 and 1,120 m (2,000 and 3,680 ft) elevation (HHP 1994q4, HPCC

1993i). The plants are scattered in an approximately 2 km (1.25 mi) by

0.3 km (0.2 mi) area. Associated plant species include 'a'ali'i, alani,

'uki'uki, Bidens cosmoides (po'ola nui), Mariscus sp., and Styphelia

tameiameiae (pukiawe) (HHP 1994q4).

The primary threats to this species include habitat degradation by

feral ungulates (pigs and goats), direct destruction of plants by

goats, competition with the alien plants molasses grass and prickly

Florida blackberry, and a risk of extinction of the one remaining

population from naturally occurring events (HPCC 1993i; S. Perlman,

pers. comm. 1994).

Forbes collected a specimen of Viola kauaensis var. wahiawaensis on

Kauai in 1909. In 1920, he described the variety, naming it for Wahiawa

Bog where it was first collected.

Viola kauaensis var. wahiawaensis, a member of the violet family

(Violaceae), is a perennial herb with upward curving or weakly rising,

hairless, lateral stems about 10 to 50 cm (4 to 20 in) long. The

kidney- to heart-shaped leaves are usually 2 to 5 cm (0.8 to 2 in) long

and 3.5 to 6 cm (1.4 to 2.4 in) wide, and widely spaced. The toothed

leaf blades are unlobed or rarely three-lobed, hairless or covered with

a few minute hairs, with a broadly wedge-shaped base. The solitary

flowers are borne in the leaf axils. Two types of flowers are present.

One is self-pollinating and does not open, while the other opens and

requires cross-pollination. The flowers that open have hairless petals

which are white on the upper surface and purple or blue to white on the

lower surface. These petals are narrowly spatula-shaped, the upper

petals measuring about 15 to 19 mm (0.6 to 0.7 in) long, the lateral

ones about 18 to 23 mm (0.7 to 0.9 in) long, and the lower ones about

18 to 23 mm (0.7 to 1 in) long. The non-opening flowers usually occur

on short lateral stems. Their greenish petals are hairless, the upper

ones being three-lobed and about 1 to 1.6 mm (0.04 to 0.06 in) long.

The fruit is a deeply lobed capsule 8 to 13 mm (0.3 to 0.5 in) long.

Two varieties of this species are recognized, both occurring on Kauai:

var. kauaensis and var. wahiawaensis. Variety wahiawaensis is

distinguished by having broadly wedge-shaped leaf bases, whereas var.

kauaensis has heart-shaped to truncate leaf bases. The species is

distinguished from others of the genus by its non-woody habit, widely

spaced leaves, and by having two types of flowers: conspicuous, open

flowers and smaller, unopened flowers (Wagner et al. 1990).

Viola kauaensis var. wahiawaensis is known only from the Wahiawa

Mountains of Kauai on privately owned land (HHP 1994r, Lorence and

Flynn 1991). This taxon is not known to have occurred beyond its

current range. Fewer than 100 individuals are known to remain in

Kanaele Swamp (often referred to as Wahiawa Bog), an open bog

surrounded by low scrub of 'ohi'a, uluhe, and 'ohi'a ha at about 640 m

(2,100 ft) elevation. Another eight plants are on a nearby ridge

between Mount Kapalaoa and Mount Kahili in wet shrubland dominated by

uluhe-Diplopterygium pinnatum ground cover, with scattered 'ohi'a and

Syzygium sp., at about 865 m (2,840 ft) elevation (HHP 1994r; Lorence

and Flynn 1991; K. Wood, pers. comm. 1994).

The primary threats to Viola kauaensis var. wahiawaensis are a risk

of extinction from naturally occurring events and/or 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 alien plants such as Juncus

planifolius and Pterolepis glomerata (HHP 1994r; Lorence and Flynn

1991; K. Wood, pers. comm.1994).

Previous Federal Action

Federal action on these plants began as a result of section 12 of

the Endangered Species Act (16 U.S.C. 1533), which directed the

Secretary of the Smithsonian Institution to prepare a report on plants

considered to be endangered, threatened, or extinct in the United

States. This report, designated as House Document No. 94-51, was

presented to Congress on January 9, 1975. In that document, Hibiscus

waimeae ssp. hannerae (as H. waimeae), Kokia kauaiensis, Myrsine

linearifolia (as Myrsine linearifolia var. linearifolia), Phyllostegia

knudsenii, and Viola kauaensis var. wahiawaensis were considered to be

endangered. Delissea rivularis and Schiedea membranacea were considered

to be threatened. On July 1, 1975, the Service published a notice in

the Federal Register (40 FR 27823) of its acceptance of the Smithsonian

report as a petition within the context of section 4(c)(2) (now section

4(b)(3)) of the Act, and giving notice of its intention to review the

status of the plant taxa named therein. As a result of that review, on

June 16, 1976, the Service published a proposed rule in the Federal

Register (41 FR 24523) to determine endangered status pursuant to

section 4 of the Act for approximately 1,700 vascular plant species,

including all of the above taxa considered to be endangered. The list

of 1,700 plant taxa was assembled on the basis of comments and data

received by the Smithsonian Institution and the Service in response to

House Document No. 94-51 and the July 1, 1975, Federal Register

publication.

General comments received in response to the 1976 proposal are

summarized in an April 26, 1978, Federal Register publication (43 FR

17909). In 1978, amendments to the Act required that all proposals over

two years old be withdrawn. A one-year grace period was given to

proposals already over two years old. On December 10, 1979, the Service

published a notice in the Federal Register (44 FR 70796) withdrawing

the portion of the June 16, 1976, proposal that had not been made

final, along with four other proposals that had expired. The Service

published an updated notice of review for plants on December 15, 1980

(45 FR 82479), September 27, 1985 (50 FR 39525), February 21, 1990 (55

FR 6183), and September 30, 1993 (58 FR 51144). Fourteen of the species

in this proposal (including synonymous taxa) were at one time or

another considered either category 1 or category 2 candidates for

Federal listing. Category 1 species were those for which the Service

had on file substantial information on biological vulnerability and

threats to support preparation of listing proposals but for which

listing proposals were not published because they were precluded by

other listing activities. Category 2 species were those for which

listing as endangered or threatened was possibly appropriate, but for

which sufficient data on biological vulnerability and threats was not

currently available. Schiedea membranacea and Kokia kauaiensis were

considered category 2 species in all notices of review prior to the

February 28, 1996, Federal Register notice which discontinued the

designation of categories for candidate species. In the 1980 and 1985

notices,

[[Page 53080]]

Myrsine linearifolia (as M. linearifolia var. linearifolia),

Phyllostegia knudsenii, and Viola kauaensis var. wahiawaensis were

considered category 1 species. In the 1990 and 1993 notices, Myrsine

linearifolia and Viola kauaensis var. wahiawaensis were moved to

category 2 status. Phyllostegia knudsenii was considered category 3A in

the 1990 notice. Category 3A species were those for which the Service

has persuasive evidence of extinction. Delissea rivularis was

considered a category 2 species in the 1980 and 1985 notices, but was

believed to be extinct and considered category 3A in the 1990 notice.

In the 1985 notice, Alsinidendron viscosum, Schiedea helleri, and

Schiedea stellarioides were considered category 1*, and were moved to

category 3A in the 1990 notice. Category 1* species were those which

were possibly extinct. Cyanea recta and Phyllostegia wawrana were

considered category 3A species in the 1990 notice. Because new

information indicates their current existence and provides support for

listing, the above seven taxa have been included in this final rule.

Hibiscus waimeae ssp. hannerae (as H. waimeae) was considered category

3C in the 1980 and 1985 notices. Category 3C species were those proven

to be more abundant or widespread than previously believed and/or were

not subject to any identifiable threat. In the 1990 and 1993 notices,

this subspecies was considered a category 2 species, along with

Pritchardia napaliensis and Pritchardia viscosa. Alsinidendron

lychnoides and Cyrtandra cyaneoides were considered category 2 species

in the 1993 notice. Current information suggests that the numbers and

distribution are sufficiently restricted and threats sufficient for the

above nine species, as well as Cyanea remyi and the recently discovered

Hibiscadelphus woodii, to warrant listing. Seventeen of the taxa were

considered proposed endangered and Cyanea recta and Myrsine

linearifolia proposed threatened in the 1996 notice, since the proposed

listing rule had already been published.

Section 4(b)(3)(B) of the Act requires the Secretary to make

findings on petitions that present substantial information indicating

that the petitioned action may be warranted within 12 months of their

receipt. Section 2(b)(1) of the 1982 amendments further requires all

petitions pending on October 13, 1982, be treated as having been newly

submitted on that date. On October 13, 1983, the Service found that the

petitioned listing of these taxa was warranted, but precluded by other

pending listing actions, in accordance with section 4(b)(3)(B)(iii) of

the Act; notification of this finding was published on January 20, 1984

(49 FR 2485). Such a finding requires the Service to consider the

petition as having been resubmitted, pursuant to section 4(b)(3)(C)(i)

of the Act. The finding was reviewed annually in October of 1984

through 1993. Publication of the proposed rule constituted the final

12-month finding for these taxa.

On September 25, 1995, the Service published in the Federal

Register (60 FR 49359) a proposal to list 17 plant taxa as endangered

and 2 plant taxa as threatened, from the island of Kauai. This proposal

was based primarily on information supplied by the Hawaii Heritage

Program, National Tropical Botanical Garden, and observations of

botanists and naturalists. Based on comments received in response to

the proposal (see Comments and Recommendations, below), the Service now

determines 17 taxa to be endangered and 2 taxa to be threatened, from

the island of Kauai, with the publication of this rule.

Summary of Comments and Recommendations

In the September 25, 1995, proposed rule and associated

notifications, all interested parties were requested to submit factual

reports or information that might contribute to the development of a

final rule. The public comment period ended on Nov. 24, 1995.

Appropriate State agencies, county governments, Federal agencies,

scientific organizations, and other interested parties were contacted

and requested to comment. A newspaper notice inviting public comment

was published in the ``Kauai Times'' on October 18, 1995, which invited

general public comment. Four letters of comment were received. No

requests for public hearings were received. Three letters supported the

listing of these taxa from Kauai and two of these letters provided

additional biological information for four taxa. This information has

been incorporated into this final rule. One letter suggested listing

Pritchardia napaliensis as threatened rather than endangered based on

observations made over 20 years ago. However, current distribution,

population, and threat information supports the designation of

endangered status for Pritchardia napaliensis.

The Service also solicited the expert opinions of three appropriate

and independent specialists regarding pertinent scientific or

commercial data and assumptions relating to the taxonomy, population

models, and supportive biological and ecological information for these

19 species. No responses were received.

Summary of Factors Affecting the Species

After a thorough review and consideration of all information

available, the Service has determined that Alsinidendron lychnoides

(Hillebr.) Sherff (kuawawaenohu), Alsinidendron viscosum (Mann) Sherff

(NCN), Cyanea remyi Rock (haha), Cyrtandra cyaneoides Rock (mapele),

Delissea rivularis (Rock) Wimmer ('oha), Hibiscadelphus woodii Lorence

and Wagner (hau kuahiwi), Hibiscus waimeae ssp. hannerae Heller (koki'o

ke'oke'o), Kokia kauaiensis (Rock) Degener & Duvel (koki'o), Labordia

tinifolia var. wahiawaensis St. John (kamakahala), Phyllostegia

knudsenii Hillebr. (NCN), Phyllostegia wawrana Sherff (NCN),

Pritchardia napaliensis St. John (loulu), Pritchardia viscosa Rock

(loulu), Schiedea helleri Sherff (NCN), Schiedea membranacea St. John

(NCN), Schiedea stellarioides Mann (laulihilihi), Viola kauaensis var.

wahiawaensis Forbes (nani wai'ale'ale) should be classified as

endangered species and that Cyanea recta (Wawra) Hillebr. (haha) and

Myrsine linearifolia Hosaka (kolea) should be classified as threatened

species.

Section 4 of the Endangered Species Act and regulations (50 CFR

part 424) promulgated to implement the listing provisions of the Act

set forth the procedures for adding species to the Federal lists. A

species may be determined to be an endangered or threatened species due

to one or more of the five factors described in section 4(a)(1). The

threats facing these 19 taxa are summarized in Table 1.

[[Page 53081]]

Table 1.--Summary of Threats

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Alien mammals Substrate

Species -------------------------------------------- Alien loss/ Human Limited Other

Deer Goats Pigs Rats plants hurricane impacts numbers*

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Alsinidendron lychnoides ........... X X X X X1,3 ....................

Alsinidendron viscosum.............. X X X X P X1,3 ....................

Cyanea recta........................ X X X X X P ............... ....................

Cyanea remyi........................ X X X X X1 Slugs.

Cyrtandra cyaneoides................ P P X X X1 ....................

Delissea rivularis.................. X P X X X1,3 ....................

Hibiscadelphus woodii............... X X X X X1,2 White-eye.

Hibiscus waimeae ssp. hannerae...... X X X X1 ....................

Kokia kauaiensis.................... X X X X X X1 ....................

Labordia tinifolia var. X X X X X1,3 ....................

wahiawaensis.

Myrsine linearifolia................ X X X ............... ....................

Phyllostegia knudsenii.............. X X X X X1,2 ....................

Phyllostegia wawrana................ X X X1,3 ....................

Pritchardia napaliensis............. X X X X X1,3 ....................

Pritchardia viscosa................. X X X X X1,2 ....................

Schiedea helleri.................... P X P X1,3 ....................

Schiedea membranacea................ X X X X X ............... ....................

Schiedea stellarioides.............. X X X X1 ....................

Viola kauaensis var. wahiawaensis... X X X1,3 ....................

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

KEY

X=Immediate and significant threat.

P=Potential threat.

*=No more than 100 individuals and/or no more than 5 populations.

1=No more than 5 populations.

2=No more than 10 individuals.

3=No more than 100 individuals.

These factors and their application to the 19 plant taxa in this

rule are as follows:

A. The present or threatened destruction, modification, or

curtailment of its habitat or range. The habitats of the plants

included in this final rule have undergone extreme alteration because

of past and present land management practices, including deliberate

alien animal and plant introductions, agricultural development, and

recreational use. Natural disturbances such as storms and landslides

also destroy habitat and can have a significant effect on small

populations of plants. Destruction and modification of habitat by

introduced animals and competition with alien plants are the primary

threats facing these 19 taxa (See Table 1).

When Polynesian immigrants settled in the Hawaiian Islands, they

brought with them water-control and slash-and-burn systems of

agriculture and encouraged plants that they introduced to grow in

valleys. Their use of the land resulted in erosion, changes in the

composition of native communities, and a reduction of biodiversity

(Cuddihy and Stone 1990, HHP 1990b, Kirch 1982, Wagner et al. 1985).

Hawaiians settled and altered many areas of Kauai including areas in

which some of the taxa in this final rule grew (Department of Land and

Natural Resources (DLNR) 1981a; HHP 1990a, 1990b). Many forested slopes

were denuded in the mid-1800s to supply firewood to whaling ships,

plantations, and island residents. Native plants were undoubtedly

affected by this practice. Also, sandalwood and tree fern harvesting

occurred in many areas, changing forest composition and affecting

native species (Cuddihy and Stone 1990).

Beginning with Captain James Cook in 1792, early European explorers

introduced livestock, which became feral, increased in number and

range, and caused significant changes to the natural environment of

Hawaii. The 1848 provision for land sales to individuals allowed large-

scale agricultural and ranching ventures to begin. So much land was

cleared for these enterprises that climatic conditions began to change,

and the amount and distribution of rainfall were altered (Wenkam 1969).

Plantation owners supported reforestation programs which resulted in

many alien trees being introduced in the hope that the watershed could

be conserved. Beginning in the 1920s, water collection and diversion

systems were constructed in upland areas to irrigate lowland fields,

and this undoubtedly destroyed individuals and populations of native

plants. The irrigation system also opened new routes for the invasion

of alien plants and animals into native forests (Cuddihy and Stone

1990, Culliney 1988, Wagner et al. 1990, Wenkam 1969).

Past and present activities of introduced alien mammals are the

primary factor altering and degrading vegetation and habitats on Kauai.

Feral ungulates trample and eat native vegetation and disturb and open

areas. This causes erosion and allows the entry of alien plant species

(Cuddihy and Stone 1990, Wagner et al. 1990). Sixteen taxa in this

final rule are directly threatened by habitat degradation resulting

from introduced ungulates: 15 taxa are threatened by pigs, ten by

goats, and two by deer.

The pig (Sus scrofa) is originally native to Europe, northern

Africa, Asia Minor, and Asia. European pigs, introduced to Hawaii by

Captain James Cook in 1778, became feral and invaded forested areas,

especially wet and mesic forests and dry areas at high elevations. They

are currently present on Kauai and four other islands, and inhabit rain

forests and grasslands. Pig hunting is allowed on all islands either

year-round or during certain months, depending on the area (DLNR n.d.-

a, n.d.-b, n.d.-c, 1990). While rooting in the ground in search of the

invertebrates and plant material they eat, feral pigs disturb and

destroy vegetative cover, trample plants and seedlings, and threaten

forest regeneration by damaging seeds and seedlings. They disturb soil

and cause erosion, especially on slopes. Alien

[[Page 53082]]

plant seeds are dispersed on their hooves and coats as well as through

their digestive tracts, and the disturbed soil is fertilized by their

feces, helping these plants to establish. Pigs are a major vector in

the spread of banana poka and strawberry guava, and enhance populations

of common guava, Hamakua pamakani, Maui pamakani, and prickly Florida

blackberry, all of which threaten one or more of the taxa (Cuddihy and

Stone 1990, Medeiros et al. 1986, Scott et al. 1986, Smith 1985, Stone

1985, Tomich 1986, Wagner et al. 1990).

Feral pigs pose an immediate threat to one or more populations of

15 of the taxa in this final rule. All known populations of the

following taxa are threatened by feral pigs: Alsinidendron viscosum,

Delissea rivularis, Hibiscadelphus woodii, Hibiscus waimeae ssp.

hannerae, Labordia tinifolia var. wahiawaensis, Phyllostegia knudsenii,

Phyllostegia wawrana, and Schiedea stellarioides. Populations of other

taxa threatened by feral pigs are: the Alakai Wilderness and Keanapuka

populations of Alsinidendron lychnoides; the Makaleha Mountains

population of Cyanea recta; the Makaleha Mountains and Wahiawa

Mountains populations of Cyanea remyi; the Wahiawa Mountains population

of Myrsine linearifolia; the Kalalau Valley population of Pritchardia

napaliensis; three of the six populations of Schiedea membranacea at

Kalalau Valley, Nualolo, and Waialae Valley; and the Wahiawa Mountains

population of Viola kauaensis var. wahiawaensis. Pigs also constitute a

potential threat to the only known population of Schiedea helleri off

Mohihi Stream, the Pohakuao and Kalalau cliffs populations of Myrsine

linearifolia, and the Wainiha Valley populations of Cyanea recta and

Cyrtandra cyaneoides. Habitat degradation reported to occur in areas

near these populations, if not controlled, may become a problem for

these populations (HHP 1990a, 1992, 1994b7, 1994i1, 1994i3; HPCC 1990a,

1991a2, 1991d, 1991f1, 1991f3, 1991f4, 1992a, 1993a1, 1993c1, 1993e,

1993j, 1993k1, 1993k2; Lorence and Flynn 1991, 1993b; Wood and Perlman

1993a; M. Bruegmann, in litt. 1994; T. Flynn, J. Lau, D. Lorence, S.

Perlman, and K. Wood, pers. comms. 1994).

The goat (Capra hircus), a species originally native to the Middle

East and India, was successfully introduced to the Hawaiian Islands in

1792. Currently populations exist on Kauai and four other islands. On

Kauai, feral goats have been present in drier, more rugged areas since

the 1820s and they still occur in Waimea Canyon and along the Na Pali

Coast, as well as in the drier perimeter of Alakai Swamp and even in

its wetter areas during periods with low rainfall. Goats are managed in

Hawaii as a game animal, but many herds populate inaccessible areas

where hunting has little effect on their numbers (HHP 1990c). Goat

hunting is allowed year-round or during certain months, depending on

the area (DLNR n.d.-a, n.d.-b, n.d.-c, 1990). Goats browse on

introduced grasses and native plants, especially in drier and more open

ecosystems. Feral goats eat native vegetation, trample roots and

seedlings, cause erosion, and promote the invasion of alien plants.

They are able to forage in extremely rugged terrain and have a high

reproductive capacity (Clarke and Cuddihy 1980, Cuddihy and Stone 1990,

Culliney 1988, Scott et al. 1986, Tomich 1986, van Riper and van Riper

1982).

Although many of the plants in this final rule survive on steep

cliffs inaccessible to goats, the original range of these plants was

probably much larger. These species are now vulnerable to the long-

term, indirect effects of goats, such as large-scale erosion (Corn et

al. 1979). The habitats of many of the 19 plants were damaged in the

past by goats, and these effects are still apparent in the form of

alien vegetation and erosion. One or more populations of ten of the

taxa in this final rule are currently threatened by direct damage from

feral goats, such as trampling of plants and seedlings and erosion of

substrate (Clarke and Cuddihy 1980, Culliney 1988, Scott et al. 1986,

van Riper and van Riper 1982).

The only known populations of Hibiscadelphus woodii, Phyllostegia

knudsenii, and Schiedea stellarioides are threatened by goats.

Populations of other taxa threatened by goats include: the Waialae and

Nawaimaka Valley populations of Alsinidendron viscosum, the Makaleha

Mountains populations of Cyanea recta and Cyanea remyi, four of the

five populations (Kalalau Valley, Koaie Stream, Mahanaloa Valley, and

Pohakuao Valley) of Kokia kauaiensis, the Kalalau cliffs and Namolokama

Summit plateau populations of Myrsine linearifolia, the largest

population of Pritchardia napaliensis at Hoolulu Valley, and three of

the six populations (Kalalau Valley, Mahanaloa-Kuia Valley, and Waialae

Valley) of Schiedea membranacea (HHP 1994j5, 1994j6; HPCC 1990b3,

1990c2, 1991f5, 1991h, 1993a1, 1993a2, 1993f, 1993i; Lorence and Flynn

1993b; Wood and Perlman 1993a; J. Lau, D. Lorence, S. Perlman, K. Wood,

pers. comms. 1994).

Individuals of mule deer (Odocoileus hemionus), native from western

North America to central Mexico, were brought to Kauai from Oregon in

the 1960s for game hunting and have not been introduced to any other

Hawaiian island. Mule deer were introduced, in part, to provide another

animal for hunting, since the State had planned to reduce the number of

goats on Kauai because they were so destructive to the landscape

(Kramer 1971). About 400 animals are known in and near Waimea Canyon,

with some invasion into Alakai Swamp in drier periods. Mule deer,

legally hunted during only one month each year, trample native

vegetation and cause erosion by creating trails and removing vegetation

(Cuddihy and Stone 1990, DLNR 1985, Tomich 1986). They are a threat to

the Mahanaloa-Kuia Valley and Nualolo populations of Schiedea

membranacea and the Paaiki and Kuia Valley populations of Kokia

kauaiensis (M. Bruegmann, in litt. 1994; S. Perlman, pers. comm. 1994).

Substrate loss due to agriculture, grazing animals (especially

goats), hikers, and vegetation change results in habitat degradation

and loss. This particularly affects plant populations on cliffs or

steep slopes, such as the Koaie Stream population of Kokia kauaiensis

(HHP 1994j6).

B. Overutilization for commercial, recreational, scientific, or

educational purposes. Unrestricted collecting for scientific or

horticultural purposes and excessive visits by individuals interested

in seeing rare plants are potential threats to all of the taxa, but

especially to Hibiscadelphus woodii, Phyllostegia knudsenii, and

Pritchardia viscosa, each of which has only one or two populations and

fewer than five individuals. Collection of whole plants or reproductive

parts of any of these three species could adversely impact the gene

pool and threaten the survival of the species. Some taxa, such as

Alsinidendron lychnoides, Alsinidendron viscosum, Cyanea recta,

Labordia tinifolia var. wahiawaensis, Pritchardia viscosa, and Schiedea

helleri have populations close to trails or roads and are thus easily

accessible to collectors and, therefore, are potentially threatened by

overcollection (Flynn and Lorence 1992; HHP 1994b1, 1994d8, 1994h1,

1994n1; HPCC 1991e2, 1993g; T. Flynn, pers. comm. 1994). At least one

of the three remaining Pritchardia viscosa individuals has been damaged

by spiked boots used to scale those trees and collect seeds and/or

reference material (Hodel, in litt. 1995; Mehrhoff, in litt. 1994).

Many of the plants in this final rule occur in recreational areas

used for hiking, camping, and hunting. Tourism is a growing industry in

Hawaii, and as

[[Page 53083]]

more people seek recreational activities, more human contact with rare

native plants is likely. People can transport or introduce alien plants

through seeds on their footwear, cause erosion, trample plants, and

start fires (Corn et al. 1979). Alsinidendron lychnoides and Labordia

tinifolia var. wahiawaensis have populations near trails and are

considered to be immediately threatened by recreational use of the

areas in which they occur (HHP 1994b1; HPCC 1991e2, 1992a).

C. Disease or predation. Browsing damage by goats has been verified

for Cyanea recta and Cyanea remyi (Lorence and Flynn 1993b). Goats have

directly destroyed individuals of Schiedea stellarioides (S. Perlman,

pers. comm. 1994). The remaining species are not known to be

unpalatable to goats or deer and, therefore, predation is a probable

threat where those animals have been reported, potentially affecting

eight additional taxa: Alsinidendron viscosum, Hibiscadelphus woodii,

Kokia kauaiensis, Myrsine linearifolia, Phyllostegia knudsenii,

Pritchardia napaliensis, Schiedea membranacea, and Schiedea

stellarioides (HHP 1994j5, 1994j6; HPCC 1990b3, 1990c2, 1991f5, 1991h,

1993a1, 1993f, 1993i, 1993j; Wood and Perlman 1993a; J. Lau, D.

Lorence, S. Perlman, K. Wood, pers. comms. 1994). The lack of seedlings

of many of the taxa and the occurrence of individuals of several taxa

only on inaccessible cliffs may indicate that browsing mammals,

especially goats, have restricted the distribution of these plants

(HPCC 1991c; Wood and Perlman 1993a; D. Lorence and K. Wood, pers.

comms. 1994).

Of the four species of rodents that have been introduced to the

Hawaiian Islands, the species with the greatest impact on the native

flora and fauna is probably Rattus rattus (black or roof rat), that now

occurs on all the main Hawaiian Islands around human habitations,

cultivated fields, and forests. Black rats and to a lesser extent Mus

musculus (house mouse), Rattus exulans (Polynesian rat), and R.

norvegicus (Norway rat) eat the fruits of some native plants,

especially those with large, fleshy fruits. Many native Hawaiian plants

produce fruit over an extended period of time, thus producing a

prolonged food supply for rodent populations. Black rats strip bark

from some native plants, and eat the fleshy stems and fruits of plants

in the bellflower and African violet families (Cuddihy and Stone 1990;

Tomich 1986; J. Lau, pers. comm. 1994). Rat damage to the stems of

species of Cyanea has been reported in the Makaleha Mountains, Waioli

Valley, and at the base of Mount Waialeale, and poses a threat to the

populations of Cyanea recta and Cyanea remyi that occur there (HPCC

1991a1; Lorence and Flynn 1993a; L. Mehrhoff, in litt. 1994; S.

Perlman, pers. comm. 1994). It is probable that rats eat the fruits of

species such as Cyrtandra cyaneoides and Delissea rivularis (C.

Russell, in litt. 1994). Rats threaten the only known population of

Pritchardia viscosa, two of three populations of Pritchardia

napaliensis, and one population of Kokia kauaiensis by predation of

their flowers or fruit (HPCC 1990b1, 1990c2; S. Perlman and K. Wood,

pers. comms. 1994).

Little is known about the predation of certain rare Hawaiian plants

by slugs. Indiscriminate predation by slugs on plant parts of Cyanea

remyi has been observed by field botanists (Mehrhoff, in litt. 1994; S.

Perlman, pers. comm. 1994). The effect of slugs on the decline of this

and related species is unclear, although slugs may pose a threat by

feeding on the stems and fruit, thereby, reducing the vigor of the

plants and limiting regeneration.

Japanese white-eye (Zosterops japonicus) was introduced to the

island of Oahu from eastern Asia in 1930, and has since spread to all

of the main Hawaiian Islands. It is currently the most abundant bird in

Hawaii (Pratt et al. 1989). Japanese white-eye has been observed

piercing the corollas of Hibiscadelphus woodii, presumably to rob

nectar (Lorence and Wagner 1995).

D. The inadequacy of existing regulatory mechanisms. Hawaii's

Endangered Species Act states--``Any species of aquatic life, wildlife,

or land plant that has been determined to be an endangered species

pursuant to the [Federal] Endangered Species Act shall be deemed to be

an endangered species under the provisions of this chapter . . .''

(Hawaii Revised Statutes (HRS), sect. 195D-4(a)). Therefore, Federal

listing will automatically invoke listing under Hawaii State law, which

prohibits taking of listed plants in the State and encourages

conservation by State agencies (HRS, sect. 195D-4 and 5).

None of the 19 taxa in this final rule are listed by the State.

Eight taxa have populations on privately owned land. Labordia tinifolia

var. wahiawaensis and Viola kauaensis var. wahiawaensis are found

exclusively on private land. At least one population of each of the

other 17 taxa occurs on State land. Fourteen taxa have one or more

populations in State parks, NARs, or the Alakai Wilderness Preserve,

which have rules and regulations for the protection of resources (DLNR

1981b; HRS, sects. 183D-4, 184-5, 195-5, and 195-8). The opportunity

for improved enforcement of these rules and regulations would result

from Federal listing.

One or more populations of each of the 19 taxa is located on land

classified within conservation districts and owned by the State of

Hawaii or private companies or individuals. Regardless of the owner,

lands in these districts, among other purposes, are regarded as

necessary for the protection of endemic biological resources and the

maintenance or enhancement of the conservation of natural resources

(HRS, sect. 205-2). Some uses, such as maintaining animals for hunting,

are based on policy decisions, while others, such as preservation of

endangered species, are mandated by State laws. Requests for amendments

to district boundaries or variances within existing classifications can

be made by government agencies and private landowners (HRS, sect. 205-

4). Before decisions about these requests are made, the impact of the

proposed reclassification on ``preservation or maintenance of important

natural systems or habitat'' (HRS, sects. 205-4, 205-17) as well as the

maintenance of natural resources is required to be taken into account

(HRS, sects. 205-2, 205-4). Before any proposed land use that will

occur on State land, is funded in part or whole by county or State

funds, or will occur within land classified as conservation district,

an environmental assessment is required to determine whether or not the

environment will be significantly affected (HRS, chapt. 343). If it is

found that an action will have a significant effect, preparation of a

full Environmental Impact Statement is required. Hawaii environmental

policy, and thus approval of land use, is required by law to safeguard

``* * * the State's unique natural environmental characteristics * *

*'' (HRS, sect. 344-3(1)) and includes guidelines to ``protect

endangered species of individual plants and animals * * *'' (HRS, sect.

344-4(3)(A)). Federal listing, because it automatically invokes State

listing, also implements these other State regulations protecting the

plants.

State laws relating to the conservation of biological resources

allow for the acquisition of land as well as the development and

implementation of programs concerning the conservation of biological

resources (HRS, sect. 195D-5(a)). The State also may enter into

agreements with Federal agencies to administer and manage any area

required for the conservation, management, enhancement, or protection

of endangered species (HRS, sect. 195D-5(c)). Funds for these

[[Page 53084]]

activities could be made available under section 6 of the Act (State

Cooperative Agreements). The Hawaii DLNR is mandated to initiate

changes in conservation district boundaries to include ``the habitat of

rare native species of flora and fauna within the conservation

district'' (HRS, sect. 195D-5.1).

Twelve of the taxa in this final rule are threatened by seven

plants considered by the State of Hawaii to be noxious weeds. The State

has provisions and funding available for eradication and control of

noxious weeds on State and private land in conservation districts and

other areas (HRS, chapt. 152; Hawaii Department of Agriculture (DOA)

1981, 1991).

Despite the existence of various State laws and regulations that

protect Hawaii's native plants, their enforcement is difficult due to

limited funding and personnel. Listing of these 19 plant taxa therefore

reinforces and supplements the protection available under the State Act

and other laws. The Federal Endangered Species Act also provides

additional protection to these 19 taxa. For example, for species listed

as endangered, it would be a violation of the Act for any person to

remove, cut, dig up, damage, or destroy any such plant in knowing

violation of State law or regulation or in the course of any violation

of a State criminal trespass law.

E. Other natural or manmade factors affecting its continued

existence. The small numbers of populations and individuals of most of

these taxa increase the potential for extinction from naturally

occurring events. The limited gene pool may depress reproductive vigor,

or a single human-caused or natural environmental disturbance could

destroy a significant percentage of the individuals or the only known

extant population. Seven of the taxa, Delissea rivularis,

Hibiscadelphus woodii, Labordia tinifolia var. wahiawaensis,

Phyllostegia knudsenii, Pritchardia viscosa, Schiedea helleri, and

Schiedea stellarioides, are known only from a single population. Nine

other taxa are known from only two to five populations (See Table 1).

Twelve of the taxa are estimated to number no more than 100 known

individuals (See Table 1). Three of these taxa, Hibiscadelphus woodii,

Phyllostegia knudsenii, and Pritchardia viscosa, number fewer than 10

individuals.

One or more species of almost 30 introduced plants directly

threaten all 19 of the taxa. The original native flora of Hawaii

consisted of about 1,000 species, 89 percent of which were endemic. Of

the total native and naturalized Hawaiian flora of 1,817 species, 47

percent were introduced from other parts of the world and nearly 100

species have become pests (Smith 1985, Wagner et al. 1990).

Naturalized, introduced species compete with native plants for space,

light, water, and nutrients (Cuddihy and Stone 1990). Some of these

species were brought to Hawaii by various groups of people, including

the Polynesian immigrants, for food or cultural reasons. Plantation

owners, alarmed at the reduction of water resources for their crops

caused by the destruction of native forest cover by grazing feral

animals, supported the introduction of alien tree species for

reforestation. Ranchers intentionally introduced pasture grasses and

other species for agriculture, and sometimes inadvertently introduced

weed seeds as well. Other plants were brought to Hawaii for their

potential horticultural value (Cuddihy and Stone 1990, Scott et al.

1986, Wenkam 1969).

Two subshrubs in the genus Ageratina have naturalized in the

Hawaiian Islands and are classified as noxious weeds by the State (DOA

1981). Ageratina adenophora (Maui pamakani), naturalized in dry areas

to wet forests on Kauai and also classified as a noxious weed by the

Federal government (7 CFR 360), threatens the Kalalau Valley population

of Schiedea membranacea (Wood and Perlman 1993a). Ageratina riparia

(Hamakua pamakani), naturalized in disturbed, dry to mesic areas and

wet forests on Kauai, is a threat to the same population of Schiedea

membranacea (Wood and Perlman 1993a). Blechnum occidentale (blechnum

fern), probably accidentally introduced from tropical America, has

naturalized in mesic forests on most of the main Hawaiian Islands

(Degener 1932; J. Lau, pers. comm. 1994). Blechnum fern poses a threat

to the Waioli Valley population of Cyanea recta (Lorence and Flynn

1993a; T. Flynn, pers. comm. 1994).

Classified as a noxious weed by the State of Hawaii, Clidemia hirta

(Koster's curse) is an aggressive shrub found in mesic to wet forests

on at least five islands in Hawaii (Almeda 1990, DOA 1981). It is a

threat to the Waioli Valley populations of Cyanea recta and the

Limahuli Valley population of Hibiscus waimeae ssp. hannerae (HHP 1992,

1994i1; HPCC 1991d; Lorence and Flynn 1993a, 1993b; J. Lau and K. Wood,

pers. comms. 1994). Cordyline fruticosa (ti) is a shrub brought to

Hawaii by the Polynesian immigrants. Its original range is unknown, but

in Hawaii it is now naturalized on all the main islands except

Kahoolawe in Pandanus tectorius (hala) forest and mesic valleys and

forests, sometimes forming dense stands (Wagner et al. 1990; J. Lau,

pers. comm. 1994). The Hoolulu Valley population of Pritchardia

napaliensis may compete for space with ti (HHP 1994m1). Crassocephalum

crepidioides, an annual herb native to tropical Africa, is naturalized

in dry areas to wet forest on Kauai and four other islands. This weed

has been considered a pest in Hawaii since 1966, and is a threat to the

Waioli Valley population of Cyanea recta (Haselwood and Motter 1983;

Lorence and Flynn 1993a; K. Wood, pers. comm. 1994). Deparia petersenii

is a perennial fern capable of forming a thick groundcover (J. Lau,

pers. comm. 1994). The Makaleha Mountains populations of Cyanea recta

and Cyrtandra cyaneoides compete for space with this fern (Lorence and

Flynn 1993b). Drymaria cordata (pipili), a pantropical annual herb, is

naturalized in shaded, moist sites on Kauai and four other islands

(Wagner et al. 1990). Pipili threatens the Makaleha Mountains

population of Cyrtandra cyaneoides and the only known population of

Phyllostegia knudsenii (HPCC 1993j, Lorence and Flynn 1993b).

Erechtites valerianifolia (fireweed) is an annual herb native from

Mexico to Brazil and Argentina. It is naturalized on all of the main

Hawaiian Islands except Niihau and Kahoolawe, and is found in

disturbed, relatively wet areas. This weed threatens the Makaleha

Mountains and Waioli Valley populations of Cyanea recta, the Makaleha

Mountains and Wahiawa Mountains populations of Cyanea remyi, and the

Makaleha Mountains populations of Cyrtandra cyaneoides and Phyllostegia

wawrana (HPCC 1993k2; Lorence and Flynn 1991, 1993a, 1993b; Wagner et

al. 1990; K. Wood, pers. comm. 1994). Brought to Hawaii as a cultivated

herbaceous plant, Erigeron karvinskianus (daisy fleabane) is

naturalized in wetter areas of Kauai and three other islands (Wagner et

al. 1990). An invasion of daisy fleabane on the Kalalau cliffs

threatens Schiedea membranacea, Myrsine linearifolia, and the only

population of Hibiscadelphus woodii. Daisy fleabane also threatens the

Alealau population of Pritchardia napaliensis and the Honopu Valley

population of Phyllostegia wawrana (HPCC 1990d1, 1991c, 1993f, 1993k1;

Lorence and Wagner 1995; K. Wood, pers. comm. 1994).

Juncus planifolius is a perennial herb native to South America, New

Zealand, and Australia and is naturalized in open, disturbed, moist

areas in forest edges and bogs (Wagner et al. 1990). Found on Kauai and

four other islands,

[[Page 53085]]

Juncus planifolius threatens the population of Viola kauaensis var.

wahiawaensis in the Wahiawa Bog (Lorence and Flynn 1991; K. Wood, pers.

comm. 1994). Kalanchoe pinnata (air plant) is an herb which occurs on

all the main islands except Niihau and Kahoolawe, especially in dry to

mesic areas (Wagner et al. 1990). The Paaiki Valley and Kuia

populations of Kokia kauaiensis, the only known population of

Phyllostegia knudsenii, the Pohakuao population of Myrsine

linearifolia, and the Alealau and Hoolulu Valley populations of

Pritchardia napaliensis are threatened by competition with air plant

(HPCC 1991g, 1993j; M. Bruegmann, in litt. 1994; K. Wood, pers. comm.

1994).

Lantana camara (lantana), brought to Hawaii as an ornamental plant,

is an aggressive, thicket-forming shrub which can now be found on all

of the main islands in mesic forests, dry shrublands, and other dry,

disturbed habitats (Wagner et al. 1990). One or more populations of

each of the following species are threatened by lantana: Alsinidendron

viscosum, Cyanea recta, Hibiscus waimeae ssp. hannerae, Kokia

kauaiensis, Myrsine linearifolia, the only known population of

Phyllostegia knudsenii, Pritchardia napaliensis, and Schiedea

membranacea (HHP 1990a, 1994i3, 1994j1, 1994j3 to 1994j6, 1994m2; HPCC

1990a, 1990b1, 1990c2, 1991d, 1993a1, 1993j; Lorence and Flynn 1993b;

S. Perlman and K. Wood, pers. comms. 1994). Melastoma candidum is a

member of a genus in which all species have been classified as noxious

weeds by the State of Hawaii (DOA 1992). This species is naturalized in

mesic to wet areas on Kauai and Hawaii and threatens the Makaleha

Mountains populations of Cyanea recta, Cyanea remyi, and Phyllostegia

wawrana (Almeda 1990, HPCC 1993k2, Lorence and Flynn 1993b).

Passiflora mollissima (banana poka), a woody vine, poses a serious

problem to mesic forests on Kauai and Hawaii by covering trees,

reducing the amount of light that reaches trees as well as understory,

and causing damage and death to trees by the weight of the vines.

Animals, especially feral pigs, eat the fruit and distribute the seeds

(Cuddihy and Stone 1990, Escobar 1990). Banana poka is classified as a

noxious weed by the State (DOA 1992) and threatens the Nualolo

population of Schiedea membranacea and the Honopu Valley population of

Phyllostegia wawrana (HPCC 1993k1; K. Wood, pers. comm. 1994).

Passiflora ligularis (sweet granadilla) was first collected in Hawaii

in 1909, and has since spread to mesic and wet areas of Kauai, Oahu,

Lanai, and Hawaii (Escobar 1990). This taxon threatens Kokia kauaiensis

(M. Bruegmann, in litt. 1994).

Two small tree species, Psidium cattleianum (strawberry guava) and

Psidium guajava (common guava), were brought to Hawaii and have become

widely naturalized on all the main islands, forming dense stands in

disturbed areas. Strawberry guava, found in mesic and wet forests,

develops into stands in which few other plants grow, physically

displacing natural vegetation and greatly affecting Hawaiian plants,

many of which are narrowly endemic taxa. Pigs depend on strawberry

guava for food and, in turn, disperse the plant's seeds through the

forests (Smith 1985, Wagner et al. 1990). Strawberry guava is

considered to be the greatest weed problem in Hawaiian rain forests and

is known to pose a direct threat to all remaining plants of Pritchardia

viscosa, the Wahiawa Mountains populations of Cyanea remyi and Labordia

tinifolia var. wahiawaensis, the Paaiki population of Kokia kauaiensis,

the Wahiawa Drainage population of Myrsine linearifolia, and the

Mahanaloa-Kuia population of Schiedea membranacea (HPCC 1991f3, 1991f4,

1992c; Lorence and Flynn 1991, 1993b; Smith 1985; M. Bruegmann, in

litt. 1994; T. Flynn and S. Perlman, pers. comms. 1994). Common guava

invades disturbed sites, forming dense thickets in dry, mesic, and wet

forests (Smith 1985, Wagner et al. 1990). Common guava threatens the

Hoolulu Valley population of Pritchardia napaliensis (HHP 1994m1, HPCC

1990c2). Pterolepis glomerata, an herb or subshrub locally naturalized

in mesic to wet disturbed sites on Kauai, Oahu, and Hawaii, threatens

the Wahiawa Bog population of Viola kauaensis var. wahiawaensis

(Lorence and Flynn 1991; K. Wood, pers. comm. 1994).

Rubus argutus (prickly Florida blackberry), an aggressive alien

species in disturbed mesic to wet forests and subalpine grasslands on

Kauai and three other islands, is considered a noxious weed by the

State of Hawaii (DOA 1981, Smith 1985, Wagner et al. 1990). Prickly

Florida blackberry threatens the only known populations of Schiedea

helleri, Schiedea stellarioides, and Delissea rivularis, the Alakai

Wilderness and Keanapuka populations of Alsinidendron lychnoides, the

Waialae-Nawaimaka population of Alsinidendron viscosum, the Koaie

Stream and Pohakuao populations of Myrsine linearifolia, the Honopu

Valley population of Phyllostegia wawrana, and the Nualolo population

of Schiedea membranacea (HHP 1994b6; HPCC 1992a, 1993a1, 1993a2, 1993g,

1993i; 1993k1; J. Lau, S. Perlman, K. Wood, pers. comms. 1994). Rubus

rosifolius (thimbleberry), native to Asia, is naturalized in disturbed

mesic to wet forest on all of the main Hawaiian Islands. This shrub

threatens the three largest populations of Cyanea recta in Wainiha

Valley, Makaleha Mountains, and Waioli Valley; the Wahiawa Mountains

and Waioli Valley populations of Cyanea remyi; the Makaleha Mountains

population of Cyrtandra cyaneoides; the Limahuli Valley population of

Hibiscus waimeae ssp. hannerae; the Mahanaloa-Kuia Valley junction

population of Kokia kauaiensis; the Limahuli-Hanakapiai Ridge

population of Myrsine linearifolia; the Makaleha Mountains population

of Phyllostegia wawrana; and the Mahanaloa-Kuia Valley population of

Schiedea membranacea (HHP 1992, 1994i1, 1994j3; HPCC 1990d2, 1991d,

1991f2, 1992c, 1993c2, 1993k2; Lorence and Flynn 1991, 1993a, 1993b; S.

Perlman and K. Wood, pers. comms. 1994).

Triumfetta semitriloba (Sacramento bur) is a subshrub now found on

four Hawaiian Islands and considered to be a noxious weed by the State

of Hawaii (DOA 1981, Wagner et al. 1990). Sacramento bur threatens the

Koaie Stream population of Kokia kauaiensis (HPCC 1990b3). Youngia

japonica (Oriental hawksbeard) is an annual herb native to southeast

Asia and now is a common weed in disturbed moist and shaded sites, as

well as intact wet forests, on most of the main Hawaiian Islands

(Wagner et al. 1990). The Waioli Valley population of Cyanea recta is

threatened by this weed (Lorence and Flynn 1993a).

Several hundred species of grasses have been introduced to the

Hawaiian Islands, many for animal forage. Of the approximately 100

grass species that have become naturalized, 3 species threaten 8 of the

19 d plant taxa. Melinis minutiflora (molasses grass), a perennial

grass brought to Hawaii for cattle fodder, is now naturalized in dry to

mesic, disturbed areas on most of the main Hawaiian Islands. The mats

it forms smother other plants and fuel more intense fires than would

normally affect an area (Cuddihy and Stone 1990, O'Connor 1990, Smith

1985). The largest populations of Alsinidendron viscosum and Schiedea

stellarioides, in Waialae-Nawaimaka Valley, are threatened by molasses

grass (HPCC 1993a1, 1993a2, 1993i). The perennial grass Paspalum

conjugatum (Hilo grass), naturalized in moist to wet, disturbed areas

on most Hawaiian Islands, produces a dense ground cover, even on

[[Page 53086]]

poor soil, and threatens the Makaleha Mountains population of Cyanea

recta, Cyanea remyi, Cyrtandra cyaneoides, the only known population of

Phyllostegia knudsenii, and the Powerline Road population of

Pritchardia viscosa (HHP 1992; HPCC 1993j; Lorence and Flynn 1993b; J.

Lau and S. Perlman, pers. comms. 1994). Sacciolepis indica (Glenwood

grass), an annual or perennial grass naturalized on five islands in

Hawaii in open, wet areas, threatens the Waioli Valley and Makaleha

Mountains populations of Cyanea recta (HHP 1992; Lorence and Flynn

1993a, 1993b; J. Lau and K. Wood, pers. comms. 1994).

Erosion, landslides, and rock slides due to natural weathering

result in the death of individual plants as well as habitat

destruction. This especially affects the continued existence of taxa or

populations with limited numbers and/or narrow ranges, such as: the two

largest populations of Cyanea recta; the Makaleha Mountains and upper

Waioli Valley populations of Cyrtandra cyaneoides, each of which has

only one individual; the only populations of Delissea rivularis,

Phyllostegia knudsenii, and Hibiscadelphus woodii; and the largest

population of Schiedea membranacea (HPCC 1990d2, 1991c, 1993c1, 1993j;

Lorence and Flynn 1993a, 1993b; Lorence and Wagner 1995; Mehrhoff, in

litt. 1994; J. Lau and K. Wood, pers. comms. 1994). This process is

often exacerbated by human disturbance and land use practices (See

Factor A).

In September 1992, Hurricane 'Iniki struck the Hawaiian Islands and

caused extensive damage, especially on the island of Kauai. Many forest

trees were destroyed, opening the canopy and thus allowing the invasion

of light-loving alien plants, which are a threat to the continued

existence of many of the d taxa. Over three-fourths of all known

Labordia tinifolia var. wahiawaensis plants were destroyed as a result

of the hurricane-force winds and substrate subsidence caused by the

hurricane (S. Perlman, pers. comm. 1994). One plant of Alsinidendron

lychnoides, half of one population of Hibiscus waimeae ssp. hannerae,

and half of the known individuals of Pritchardia viscosa were destroyed

by the hurricane (M. Bruegmann, in litt. 1994; S. Perlman, pers. comm.

1994). Damage by future hurricanes could further decrease the already

reduced numbers and reduced habitat of most of the 19 taxa in this

final rule.

The Service has carefully assessed the best scientific and

commercial information available regarding the past, present, and

future threats faced by these species in determining to make this rule

final. Based on this evaluation, this rulemaking will list 17 of these

plant taxa as endangered (Alsinidendron lychnoides, Alsinidendron

viscosum, Cyanea remyi, Cyrtandra cyaneoides, Delissea rivularis,

Hibiscadelphus woodii, Hibiscus waimeae ssp. hannerae, Kokia

kauaiensis, Labordia tinifolia var. wahiawaensis, Phyllostegia

knudsenii, Phyllostegia wawrana, Pritchardia napaliensis, Pritchardia

viscosa, Schiedea helleri, Schiedea membranacea, Schiedea

stellarioides, and Viola kauaensis var. wahiawaensis) and two taxa as

threatened (Cyanea recta and Myrsine linearifolia). Sixteen of the taxa

either number no more than about 100 individuals or are known from five

or fewer populations. The 17 taxa listed as endangered are threatened

by one or more of the following: habitat degradation and/or predation

by feral pigs, feral goats, rats, and deer; competition from alien

plants; substrate loss; human impacts; and lack of legal protection or

difficulty in enforcing laws that are already in effect. Small

population size and limited distribution make these species

particularly vulnerable to extinction and/or reduced reproductive vigor

from naturally occurring events. Because these 17 taxa are in danger of

extinction throughout all or a significant portion of their ranges,

they fit the definition of endangered as defined in the Act.

Although populations of Cyanea recta and Myrsine linearifolia are

threatened by predation (by rats and/or goats), habitat modification by

pigs and goats, and competition with alien plant species, the wider

distribution of populations through a relatively large area and greater

numbers of individual plants reduce the likelihood that these species

will become extinct in the near future. For these reasons, Cyanea recta

and Myrsine linearifolia are not now in immediate danger of extinction

throughout all or a significant portion of their ranges. However, both

species are likely to become endangered in the foreseeable future if

the threats affecting these species are not curbed. As a result, Cyanea

recta and Myrsine linearifolia are designated threatened species.

Critical habitat is not being designated for the 19 taxa included

in this rule, for reasons discussed in the ``Critical Habitat'' section

below.

Critical Habitat

Critical habitat is defined in section 3 of the Act as: (i) The

specific areas within the geographical area occupied by a species, at

the time it is listed in accordance with the Act, on which are found

those physical or biological features (I) essential to the conservation

of the species and (II) that may require special management

consideration or protection and; (ii) specific areas outside the

geographical area occupied by a species at the time it is listed, upon

a determination that such areas are essential for the conservation of

the species. ``Conservation'' means the use of all methods and

procedures needed to bring the species to the point at which listing

under the Act is no longer necessary.

Section 4(a)(3) of the Act, as amended, and implementing

regulations (50 CFR 424.12) require that, to the maximum extent prudent

and determinable, the Secretary designate critical habitat at the time

a species is determined to be endangered or threatened. Service

regulations (50 CFR 424.12(a)(1)) state that designation of critical

habitat is not prudent when one or both of the following situations

exist--(1) The species is threatened by taking or other human activity,

and identification of critical habitat can be expected to increase the

degree of threat to the species, or (2) such designation of critical

habitat would not be beneficial to the species. As discussed under

Factor B of the summary of factors affecting the species section, these

taxa are threatened by overcollection, due to low population size. The

publication of precise maps and descriptions of critical habitat in the

Federal Register and local newspapers as required in designation of

critical habitat would increase the degree of threat to these plants

from take or vandalism and, therefore, could contribute to their

decline and increase enforcement problems. The listing of these taxa as

endangered or threatened publicizes the rarity of the plants and, thus,

can also make these plants attractive to curiosity seekers or

collectors of rare plants.

All involved parties and the major landowners have been notified of

the location and importance of protecting the habitat of these taxa.

Protection of the habitats of these plants will be addressed through

the recovery process and through the section 7 consultation process as

necessary. At present, the Service is not aware of any Federal activity

within the currently known habitats of these plants. The Service finds

that designation of critical habitat for these 19 taxa is not prudent

at this time. Such a designation would increase the degree of threat

from vandalism, collecting, or other human activities and is unlikely

to aid in the conservation of these taxa. In addition, designation of

critical habitat would provide no benefits beyond those that these

species would receive by virtue of their being

[[Page 53087]]

listed as endangered or threatened species.

Available Conservation Measures

Conservation measures provided to plant taxa listed as endangered

or threatened under the Act include recognition, recovery actions,

requirements for Federal protection, and prohibitions against certain

activities. Recognition through listing results in public awareness and

conservation actions by Federal, State, and local agencies, private

organizations, and individuals. The Act provides for possible land

acquisition and cooperation with the State and requires that recovery

plans be developed for listed species. The requirements for Federal

agencies and the prohibitions against certain activities involving

listed plants are discussed, in part, below.

Section 7(a) of the Act, as amended, requires Federal agencies to

evaluate their actions with respect to any species that is listed as

endangered or threatened and with respect to its critical habitat, if

any is being designated. Regulations implementing this interagency

cooperation provision of the Act are codified at 50 CFR part 402.

Section 7(a)(2) of the Act requires Federal agencies to ensure that

activities they authorize, fund, or carry out are not likely to

jeopardize the continued existence of the species or to destroy or

adversely modify its critical habitat. If a Federal action may affect a

listed species or its critical habitat, the responsible Federal agency

must enter into consultation with the Service. None of the 19 taxa

occur on Federal lands and no known Federal activities occur within the

present known habitat of these 19 plant taxa.

The Act and its implementing regulations set forth a series of

general prohibitions and exceptions that apply to all endangered and

threatened plants. With respect to the 19 plant taxa in this rule, the

prohibitions of section 9(a)(2) of the Act, implemented by 50 CFR

17.61, apply. These prohibitions, in part, make it illegal for any

person subject to the jurisdiction of the United States to import or

export any listed plant species; transport such species in interstate

or foreign commerce in the course of a commercial activity; sell or

offer for sale in interstate or foreign commerce; or to remove and

reduce to possession any such species from areas under Federal

jurisdiction. In addition, it is illegal to maliciously damage or

destroy any endangered plant from areas under Federal jurisdiction; or

remove, cut, dig up, damage, or destroy any endangered species on any

other area in knowing violation of any State law or regulation or in

the course of any violation of a State criminal trespass law. Section

4(d) of the Act allows for the provision of such protection to

threatened species through regulation. This protection may apply to

these taxa in the future if regulations are promulgated. Seeds from

cultivated specimens of threatened plants are exempt from these

prohibitions provided that their containers are marked ``Of Cultivated

Origin.'' Certain exceptions to the prohibitions apply to agents of the

Service and State conservation agencies.

The Act and 50 CFR 17.62, 17.63, and 17.72 also provide for the

issuance of permits to carry out otherwise prohibited activities

involving listed plant species under certain circumstances. Such

permits are available for scientific purposes and to enhance the

propagation or survival of the species. For threatened plants, permits

are also available for botanical or horticultural exhibition,

educational purposes, or special purposes consistent with the purposes

of the Act. It is anticipated that few trade permits would be sought or

issued for most of the taxa, because they are not in cultivation or

common in the wild.

It is the policy of the Service, published in the Federal Register

on July 1, 1994, (59 FR 34272) to identify to the maximum extent

practicable at the time a species is listed those activities that would

or would not constitute a violation of section 9 of the Act. The intent

of this policy is to increase public awareness of the effect of the

listing on proposed and ongoing activities within the species' range.

Eighteen of the 19 taxa in this final rule are located on State lands.

The Service is not aware of any otherwise legal activities being

conducted by the public on State lands that will be affected by this

listing and result in a violation of section 9. Six of the listed taxa

(Hibiscadelphus woodii, Hibiscus waimeae ssp. hannerae, Kokia

kauaiensis, Myrsine linearifolia, Pritchardia napaliensis, and

Pritchardia viscosum) may be of horticultural interest, though none are

currently in commercial trade. Intrastate commerce (commerce within a

State) is not prohibited under the Act. However, interstate and foreign

commerce (sale or offering for sale across State or international

boundaries), will require a Federal endangered species permit.

(Endangered species may be advertised for sale provided the

advertisement contains a statement that no sale may be consummated

until a permit has been obtained from the Service.)

Questions regarding whether specific activities will constitute a

violation of section 9 of the Act should be directed to the Pacific

Islands Ecoregion Manager (see ADDRESSES section). Requests for copies

of the regulations concerning listed plants and inquiries regarding

prohibitions and permits may be addressed to the Fish and Wildlife

Service, Ecological Services, Endangered Species Permits, 911 N.E. 11th

Avenue, Portland, Oregon 97232-4181 (telephone: 503/231-6241;

facsimile: 503/231-6243).

Hawaii State Law

Federal listing will automatically invoke listing under the State's

endangered species act. Hawaii's Endangered Species Act states, ``Any

species of aquatic life, wildlife, or land plant that has been

determined to be an endangered species pursuant to the [Federal]

Endangered Species Act shall be deemed to be an endangered species

under the provisions of this chapter * * *'' (Hawaii Revised Statutes

(HRS), sect. 195D-4(a)). This Federal listing will automatically invoke

listing under Hawaii State law. The State law prohibits taking of

listed species on private and State lands and encourages conservation

by State agencies (HRS, sect. 195D-4). However, the regulations are

difficult to enforce because of limited personnel.

National Environmental Policy Act

The Fish and Wildlife Service has determined that Environmental

Assessments and Environmental Impact Statements, as defined under the

authority of the National Environmental Policy Act of 1969, need not be

prepared in connection with regulations adopted pursuant to section

4(a) of the Endangered Species Act of 1973, as amended. A notice

outlining the Service's reasons for this determination was published in

the Federal Register on October 25, 1983 (48 FR 49244).

Required Determinations

The Service has examined this regulation under the Paperwork

Reduction Act of 1995 and found it to contain no information collection

requirements. This rulemaking was not subject to review by the Office

of Management and Budget under Executive Order 12866.

References Cited

A complete list of all references cited herein is available upon

request from the Pacific Islands Ecoregion Office (See ADDRESSES

section).

[[Page 53088]]

Author

The authors of this final rule are Christa Russell and Marie M.

Bruegmann, Pacific Islands Ecoregion Office (see ADDRESSES section).

List of Subjects in 50 CFR Part 17

Endangered and threatened species, Exports, Imports, Reporting and

recordkeeping requirements, Transportation.

Regulation Promulgation

Accordingly, the Service hereby amends part 17, subchapter B of

chapter I, title 50 of the Code of Federal Regulations, as set forth

below:

PART 17--[AMENDED]

1. The authority citation for part 17 continues to read as follows:

Authority: 16 U.S.C. 1361-1407; 16 U.S.C. 1531-1544; 16 U.S.C.

4201-4245; Pub. L. 99-625, 100 Stat. 3500; unless otherwise noted.

2. Section 17.12(h) is amended by adding the following, in

alphabetical order under FLOWERING PLANTS, to the List of Endangered

and Threatened Plants to read as follows:

Sec. 17.12 Endangered and threatened plants.

* * * * *

(h) * * *

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Species

------------------------------------------------------------ Historic range Family Status When listed Critical Special

Scientific name Common name habitat rules

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

FLOWERING PLANTS:

* * * * * * *

Alsinidendron lychnoides...... Kuawawaenohu............... U.S.A.(HI) Caryophyllaceae--Pink E 590 NA NA

* * * * * * *

Alsinidendron viscosum........ None....................... U.S.A.(HI) Caryophyllaceae--Pink E 590 NA NA

* * * * * * *

Cyanea recta.................. Haha....................... U.S.A.(HI) Campanulaceae--Bellfl T 590 NA NA

ower.

* * * * * * *

Cyanea remyi.................. Haha....................... U.S.A.(HI) Campanulaceae--Bellfl E 590 NA NA

ower.

* * * * * * *

Cyrtandra cyaneoides.......... Mapele..................... U.S.A.(HI) Gesneriaceae--African E 590 NA NA

violet.

* * * * * * *

Delissea rivularis............ 'Oha....................... U.S.A.(HI) Campanulaceae--Bellfl E 590 NA NA

ower.

* * * * * * *

Hibiscadelphus woodii......... Hau kuahiwi................ U.S.A.(HI) Malvaceae--Mallow.... E 590 NA NA

* * * * * * *

Hibiscus waimeae ssp. hannerae Koki'o ke'oke'o............ U.S.A.(HI) Malvaceae--Mallow.... E 590 NA NA

* * * * * * *

Kokia kauaiensis.............. Koki'o..................... U.S.A.(HI) Malvaceae--Mallow.... E 590 NA NA

* * * * * * *

Labordia tinifolia var. Kamakahala................. U.S.A.(HI) Loganiaceae--Logania. E 590 NA NA

wahiawaensis.

* * * * * * *

Myrsine linearifolia.......... Kolea...................... U.S.A.(HI) Myrsinaceae--Myrsine. T 590 NA NA

* * * * * * *

Phyllostegia knudsenii........ None....................... U.S.A.(HI) Lamiaceae--Mint...... E 590 NA NA

* * * * * * *

Phyllostegia wawrana.......... None....................... U.S.A.(HI) Lamiaceae--Mint...... E 590 NA NA

* * * * * * *

Pritchardia napaliensis....... Loulu...................... U.S.A.(HI) Arecaceae--Palm...... E 590 NA NA

* * * * * * *

Pritchardia viscosa........... Loulu...................... U.S.A.(HI) Arecaceae--Palm...... E 590 NA NA

* * * * * * *

Schiedea helleri.............. None....................... U.S.A.(HI) Caryophyllaceae--Pink E 590 NA NA

* * * * * * *

Schiedea membranacea.......... None....................... U.S.A.(HI) Caryophyllaceae--Pink E 590 NA NA

[[Page 53089]]

* * * * * * *

Schiedea stellarioides........ None....................... U.S.A.(HI) Caryophyllaceae--Pink E 590 NA NA

* * * * * * *

Viola kauaensis var. Nani wai'ale'ale........... U.S.A.(HI) Violaceae--Violet.... E 590 NA NA

wahiawaensis .

* * * * * * *

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Dated: September 24, 1996.

John G. Rogers,

Acting Director, Fish and Wildlife Service.

[FR Doc. 96-25558 Filed 10-09-96; 8:45 am]

BILLING CODE 4310-55-P