Endangered and Threatened Wildlife and Plants; Proposed Endangered or Threatened Status for Fourteen Plant Taxa From the Hawaiian Islands

DEPARTMENT OF THE INTERIOR

50 CFR Part 17

RIN 1018-AD58

Endangered and Threatened Wildlife and Plants; Proposed

Endangered or Threatened Status for Fourteen Plant Taxa From the

Hawaiian Islands

AGENCY: Fish and Wildlife Service, Interior.

ACTION: Proposed rule.

-----------------------------------------------------------------------

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

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

amended (Act), for 13 plant taxa--Achyranthes mutica (No common name

(NCN)), Cenchrus agrimonioides (kamanomano), Cyanea grimesiana ssp.

grimesiana (haha), Cyperus trachysanthos (pu`uka`a), Euphorbia

haeleeleana (NCN), Isodendrion laurifolium (aupaka), Panicum niihauense

(lau `ehu), Phyllostegia parviflora (NCN), Platanthera holochila (NCN),

Sanicula purpurea (NCN), Schiedea hookeri (NCN), Schiedea kauaiensis

(NCN), and Schiedea nuttallii (NCN). The Service also proposes

threatened status for Isodendrion longifolium (aupaka). The 14 taxa are

endemic to the Hawaiian Islands and are now known from one or more of

the following Hawaiian Islands--Niihau, Kauai, Oahu, Molokai, Lanai,

Maui, and Hawaii. The 14 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 alien

species, human impacts, fire, and natural disasters. This proposal, if

made final, would implement the Federal protection provisions provided

by the Act.

DATES: Comments from all interested parties must be received by

December 1, 1995. Public hearing requests must be received by November

16, 1995.

ned by one or more of the

following--competition, predation, or habitat degradation from alien

species, human impacts, fire, and natural disasters. This proposal, if

made final, would implement the Federal protection provisions provided

by the Act.

DATES: Comments from all interested parties must be received by

December 1, 1995. Public hearing requests must be received by November

16, 1995.

ADDRESSES: Comments and materials concerning this proposal should be

sent to Robert P. Smith, Pacific Islands Ecoregion Manager, U.S. Fish

and Wildlife Service, 300 Ala Moana Boulevard, Room 6307, P.O. Box

50167, Honolulu, Hawaii 96850. Comments and materials received will be

available for public inspection, by appointment, during normal business

hours at the above address.

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Robert P. Smith, Pacific Islands

Ecoregion Manager (see ADDRESSES section) (telephone: 808/541-2749;

facsimile: 808/541-2756).

SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION:

Background

Achyranthes mutica, Cenchrus agrimonioides, Cyanea grimesiana ssp.

grimesiana, Cyperus trachysanthos, Euphorbia haeleeleana, Isodendrion

laurifolium, Isodendrion longifolium, Panicum niihauense, Phyllostegia

parviflora, Platanthera holochila, Sanicula purpurea, Schiedea hookeri,

Schiedea kauaiensis, and Schiedea nuttallii are, or were, known from

ten Hawaiian Islands--Laysan, Midway, Kure, Niihau, Kauai, Oahu,

Molokai, Lanai, Maui, and Hawaii. The current and historical

distribution by island is presented in Table 1 for each of the 14 taxa.

sodendrion longifolium, Panicum niihauense, Phyllostegia

parviflora, Platanthera holochila, Sanicula purpurea, Schiedea hookeri,

Schiedea kauaiensis, and Schiedea nuttallii are, or were, known from

ten Hawaiian Islands--Laysan, Midway, Kure, Niihau, Kauai, Oahu,

Molokai, Lanai, Maui, and Hawaii. The current and historical

distribution by island is presented in Table 1 for each of the 14 taxa.

Table 1.--Summary of Island Distribution of the Proposed Taxa

----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Hawaiian Island

Species ---------------------------------------------------------------------

Ku Mi La Ni K O Mo L M H

----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Achyranthes mutica........................ ..... ..... ..... ..... H ..... ..... ..... ..... C

Cenchrus agrimonioides.................... H H H ..... ..... C ..... H C H?

Cyanea grimesiana ssp. grimesiana......... ..... ..... ..... ..... ..... C C C C .....

Cyperus trachysanthos..................... ..... ..... ..... C C C H H ..... .....

Euphorbia haeleeleana..................... ..... ..... ..... ..... C C .....

Isodendrion laurifolium................... ..... ..... ..... ..... C C ..... ..... ..... .....

Isodendrion longifolium................... ..... ..... ..... ..... C C ..... ..... ..... .....

Panicum niihauense........................ ..... ..... ..... H C ..... ..... ..... ..... .....

Phyllostegia parviflora................... ..... ..... ..... ..... ..... C ..... ..... H H

Platanthera holochila..................... ..... ..... ..... ..... C H C ..... C .....

Sanicula purpurea......................... ..... ..... ..... ..... ..... C ..... ..... C .....

Schiedea hookeri.......................... ..... ..... ..... ..... ..... C ..... ..... H .....

Schiedea kauaiensis....................... ..... ..... ..... ..... C ..... ..... ..... ..... .....

Schiedea nuttallii........................ ..... ....

............. ..... ..... ..... ..... C H C ..... C .....

Sanicula purpurea......................... ..... ..... ..... ..... ..... C ..... ..... C .....

Schiedea hookeri.......................... ..... ..... ..... ..... ..... C ..... ..... H .....

Schiedea kauaiensis....................... ..... ..... ..... ..... C ..... ..... ..... ..... .....

Schiedea nuttallii........................ ..... ..... ..... ..... C C ..... ..... ..... .....

----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Key:

C = current; population last observed within the past 20 years.

H = historical; population not seen for over 20 years.

? = questionable locality or inconsistent information in sources.

Ku--Kure; Mi--Midway; La--Laysan; Ni--Niihau; K--Kauai; O--Oahu; Mo--Molokai; L--Lanai; M--Maui; H--Hawaii.

The Hawaiian archipelago includes eight large volcanic islands

(Niihau, Kauai, Oahu, Molokai, Lanai, Kahoolawe, Maui, and Hawaii), as

well as offshore islets, shoals, and atolls set on submerged volcanic

remnants at the northwestern end of the chain (the Northwestern

Hawaiian Islands, including Laysan, Midway, and Kure). The archipelago

covers a land area of about 16,600 square kilometers (sq km) (6,400 sq

miles (mi)), extending roughly between latitude 18 deg.50' and

28 deg.15' N and longitude 154 deg.40' and 178 deg.70' W, and ranging

in elevation from sea level to 4,200 meters (m) (13,800 feet (ft))

(Department of Geography 1983). The regional geological setting is a

mid-oceanic volcanic island archipelago set in a roughly northwest to

southeast line, with younger islands to the southeast. The youngest

island, Hawaii, is volcanically active. The older islands are

increasingly eroded, so that the basaltic portions of many of the

northwesternmost islands (such as Laysan, Midway, and Kure) are

entirely submerged, and coralline atolls and shoals are often all that

remain above sea level (Macdonald et al. 1986)

hly northwest to

southeast line, with younger islands to the southeast. The youngest

island, Hawaii, is volcanically active. The older islands are

increasingly eroded, so that the basaltic portions of many of the

northwesternmost islands (such as Laysan, Midway, and Kure) are

entirely submerged, and coralline atolls and shoals are often all that

remain above sea level (Macdonald et al. 1986). The topography of the

Hawaiian Islands is extremely diverse. On the youngest islands, Hawaii

and Maui, gently sloping unweathered shield volcanoes with very poor

soil development are juxtaposed with older, heavily weathered valleys

with steep walls, well-developed streams, and gently sloped flood

plains. The older islands to the northwest (Niihau, Kauai, Oahu, and

Molokai) are generally more weathered. On a typical older island, sea

cliffs and large amphitheater-headed valleys on the windward

(northeast) side contrast with erosionally younger, dissected slopes on

the leeward (southwest) side (Department of Geography 1983).

The climate of the Hawaiian Islands reflects the tropical setting

buffered by the surrounding ocean (Department of Geography 1983). The

prevailing winds are northeast tradewinds with some seasonal

fluctuation in strength. There are also winter storm systems and

occasional hurricanes. Annual rainfall varies greatly by location, with

marked windward to leeward gradients over short distances. Minimum

average annual rainfall is less than 250 millimeters (mm) (10 inches

(in.)); the maximum average precipitation is well in excess of 11,000

mm (450 in.) per year. Precipitation is greatest during the months of

October through April. A dry season is apparent in leeward settings,

while windward settings generally receive tradewind-driven rainfall

throughout the year (Department of Geography 1983).

The native-dominated vegetation of the Hawaiian Islands varies

greatly according to elevation, moisture regime, and substrate

of 11,000

mm (450 in.) per year. Precipitation is greatest during the months of

October through April. A dry season is apparent in leeward settings,

while windward settings generally receive tradewind-driven rainfall

throughout the year (Department of Geography 1983).

The native-dominated vegetation of the Hawaiian Islands varies

greatly according to elevation, moisture regime, and substrate. Within

nearly 100 recognized native vegetation types are numerous island-

specific or region-specific associations, comprising an extremely rich

array of vegetation types within a very limited geographic area. Major

vegetation formations include forests, woodlands, shrublands,

grasslands, herblands, and pioneer associations on lava and cinder

substrates (Gagne and Cuddihy 1990).

In Hawaii, lowland, montane, and subalpine forest types extend from

sea level to above 3,000 m (9,800 ft) in elevation. Coastal and lowland

forests are generally dry or mesic and may be open- or closed-canopied.

The stature of lowland forests is generally under 10 m (30 ft). Ten of

the taxa proposed for listing (Achyranthes mutica, Cenchrus

agrimonioides var. agrimonioides, Cyanea grimesiana ssp. grimesiana,

Euphorbia haeleeleana, Isodendrion laurifolium, Isodendrion

longifolium, Panicum niihauense, Schiedea hookeri, Schiedea nuttallii,

and Schiedea kauaiensis) have been reported from lowland dry or mesic

forest habitat. Cenchrus agrimonioides var. laysanensis has been

reported from dry coastal strand vegetation. Four taxa (Isodendrion

laurifolium, Isodendrion longifolium, Phyllostegia parviflora, and

Sanicula purpurea) have been reported from lowland wet forest habitat.

One taxon, Cyperus trachysanthos, has been

uttallii,

and Schiedea kauaiensis) have been reported from lowland dry or mesic

forest habitat. Cenchrus agrimonioides var. laysanensis has been

reported from dry coastal strand vegetation. Four taxa (Isodendrion

laurifolium, Isodendrion longifolium, Phyllostegia parviflora, and

Sanicula purpurea) have been reported from lowland wet forest habitat.

One taxon, Cyperus trachysanthos, has been

reported from wet sites on coastal cliffs or talus slopes. Montane wet

forests, occupying elevations between 915 and 1,830 m (3,000 and 6,000

ft), occur on the windward slopes and summits of the islands of Kauai,

Oahu, Molokai, Maui, and Hawaii. The forests may be open- to closed-

canopied, and may exceed 20 m (65 ft) in stature. Montane wet forests

are usually dominated by several species of native trees and tree

ferns. One of the proposed taxa, Platanthera holochila, has been

reported from montane wet forest habitat. Montane bogs, found on Kauai,

Molokai, Maui, and Hawaii, occur primarily on flat or gently sloping

terrain with impervious substrates between 915 and 1,830 m (3,000 and

6,000 ft) in elevation. The vegetation of most of these bogs consists

of an irregular, hummocky cushion of sedges, with Metrosideros

polymorpha (`ohi`a) usually a codominant. Two of the proposed taxa,

Platanthera holochila and Sanicula purpurea, have been reported from

montane bog habitats. Hawaiian shrublands are also found from coastal

to alpine elevations. The majority of Hawaiian shrubland types are in

dry and mesic settings, or on cliffs and slopes too steep to support

trees. Only one of the proposed taxa, Panicum niihauense, has been

reported from coastal dry shrubland habitat, on Kauai.

The land that supports these 14 plant taxa is owned by various

private parties, the City and County of Honolulu, the State of Hawaii

(including State parks, forest reserves, natural area reserves, and

Hawaiian Home Lands), and the Federal government (Department of Defense

(DOD) and Department of the Interior).

anicum niihauense, has been

reported from coastal dry shrubland habitat, on Kauai.

The land that supports these 14 plant taxa is owned by various

private parties, the City and County of Honolulu, the State of Hawaii

(including State parks, forest reserves, natural area reserves, and

Hawaiian Home Lands), and the Federal government (Department of Defense

(DOD) and Department of the Interior).

Discussion of the 14 Plant Taxa Proposed for Listing

Achyranthes mutica was first described by Asa Gray in 1867 based on

a specimen collected on Kauai between 1851 and 1855 by Ezechiel Jules

Remy, a French naturalist and ethnologist (St. John 1979, Wagner et al.

1990). Achyranthes nelsonii (St. John 1979) is considered to be

synonymous with Achyranthes mutica by the authors of the current

treatment of Hawaiian members of the family (Wagner et al. 1990).

Achyranthes mutica, a member of the amaranth family

(Amaranthaceae), is a many-branched shrub with stems ranging from 30 to

60 centimeters (cm) (12 to 24 in.) long. The opposite leaves, usually

3.2 to 4 cm (1.3 to 1.6 in.) long and 1.5 to 2 cm (0.6 to 0.8 in.)

wide, are inversely egg-shaped to elliptic or inversely lance-shaped.

The stalkless flowers are arranged in spikes (flowers directly attached

to the main flower axis) that are 0.4 to 1.5 cm (0.2 to 0.6 in.) long.

The petalless flowers are perfect (containing both female and male

parts). The sepals are of unequal length, 3 to 4.2 mm (0.1 to 0.2 in.)

long, and have sharply pointed tips. This species is distinguished from

others in the genus by the shape and size of the sepals and by

characteristics of the spike, which is short and congested (Wagner et

al. 1990).

Historically Achyranthes mutica was known from three collections

from opposite ends of the main archipelago, Kauai and Hawaii (Hawaii

Heritage Program (HHP) 1994c1, 1994c2; Hawaii Plant Conservation Center

(HPCC) 1992a)

species is distinguished from

others in the genus by the shape and size of the sepals and by

characteristics of the spike, which is short and congested (Wagner et

al. 1990).

Historically Achyranthes mutica was known from three collections

from opposite ends of the main archipelago, Kauai and Hawaii (Hawaii

Heritage Program (HHP) 1994c1, 1994c2; Hawaii Plant Conservation Center

(HPCC) 1992a). Currently this species is known only from the Keawewai

Stream area in the Kohala Mountains of Hawaii on private land. Between

20 and 50 plants are growing at an elevation of about 920 m (3,030 ft)

in an Acacia koaia (koai`a) lowland dry forest with Dodonaea viscosa

(`a`ali`i), Myoporum sandwicense (naio), Nestegis sandwicensis

(olopua), Osteomeles anthyllidifolia (`ulei), and Sophora chrysophylla

(mamane) (HPCC 1992a).

The primary threats to the single remaining population of

Achyranthes mutica are habitat degradation and/or destruction by

ungulates such as cattle (Bos taurus) and feral goats (Capra hircus),

competition with alien plant taxa, and a risk of extinction from

naturally occurring events (such as landslides or hurricanes) and/or

reduced reproductive vigor, due to the small number of existing

individuals in a single remaining population (HPCC 1992a; Christa

Russell, The Nature Conservancy of Hawaii (TNCH), pers. comm. 1994).

A botanist on the Russian vessel Rurik, Louis C.A. von Chamisso

first collected Cenchrus agrimonioides on Oahu during a world exploring

expedition between 1816 and 1817. Carl Bernhard von Trinius described

the species several years later (Degener and Whitney 1937). Other

published names considered synonymous with Cenchrus agrimonioides

include Cenchrus calyculatus var. uniflorus, Cenchrus laysanensis, and

Cenchrus pedunculatus (O'Connor 1990). Currently, two varieties are

recognized--the nominate variety and variety laysanensis, described by

F.B. Brown (Brown 1931)

rnhard von Trinius described

the species several years later (Degener and Whitney 1937). Other

published names considered synonymous with Cenchrus agrimonioides

include Cenchrus calyculatus var. uniflorus, Cenchrus laysanensis, and

Cenchrus pedunculatus (O'Connor 1990). Currently, two varieties are

recognized--the nominate variety and variety laysanensis, described by

F.B. Brown (Brown 1931).

Cenchrus agrimonioides, a member of the grass family (Poaceae), is

a perennial grass with stems 0.3 to 2 m (1 to 6.7 ft) tall. The leaf

blades, 20 to 40 cm (8 to 16 in.) long and 5 to 25 mm (0.2 to 1 in.)

wide, are flat or folded and have a prominent midrib. The inflorescence

(flower cluster) is a raceme (an unbranched, indeterminate

inflorescence with flowers arranged along the axis) 5 to 10 cm (2 to 4

in.) long, bearing cylindrical to lance-shaped burs 8 to 18 mm (0.3 to

0.7 in.) long. The burs are densely hairy with an outer series of

numerous, somewhat spreading bristles. Each bur partially envelops one

spikelet (ultimate flower cluster). This species is distinguished from

others in the genus by the cylindrical to lance-shaped bur and the

arrangement and position of the bristles. Cenchrus agrimonioides var.

agrimonioides differs from var. laysanensis in generally having smaller

burs, shorter stems, and narrower leaves (O'Connor 1990).

Historically Cenchrus agrimonioides var. agrimonioides was known

from the following general areas--the Waianae Mountains of Oahu,

Kaaukuu on Lanai, and the south slope of Haleakala and Ulupalakua on

Maui. It may possibly have occurred on the island of Hawaii;

undocumented observations of this taxon have been reported from

unspecified locations on this island (HHP 1994d1 to 1994d14, Hillebrand

1888). Currently Cenchrus agrimonioides var. agrimonioides is known

from Oahu and Maui

ral areas--the Waianae Mountains of Oahu,

Kaaukuu on Lanai, and the south slope of Haleakala and Ulupalakua on

Maui. It may possibly have occurred on the island of Hawaii;

undocumented observations of this taxon have been reported from

unspecified locations on this island (HHP 1994d1 to 1994d14, Hillebrand

1888). Currently Cenchrus agrimonioides var. agrimonioides is known

from Oahu and Maui. In the Waianae Mountains on Oahu, approximately 25

individuals are found in the following populations--Pahole Gulch in the

State's Pahole Natural Area Reserve (NAR), Makaha-Waianae Kai Ridge on

City and County of Honolulu land, Kahanahaiki Valley on State land

leased by the DOD for the Makua Military Reservation, east Makaleha on

State land, and Pualii drainage on private land in TNCH's Honouliuli

Preserve (HHP 1994d1, 1994d8, 1994d11, 1994d12, 1994d14). On Maui, a

patch of Cenchrus agrimonioides var. agrimonioides plants, 0.9 sq m (10

sq ft) in size, is known from State land within Kanaio NAR (Robert

Hobdy, Division of Forestry and Wildlife (DOFAW), pers. comm. 1994).

The total number of individuals statewide is fewer than 100. Cenchrus

agrimonioides var. agrimonioides is usually found on dry rocky ridges

or slopes, or ridges in mesic `ohi`a-koa forest between 560 and 820 m

(1,830 and 2,700 ft) in elevation. Associated plant taxa include Alyxia

oliviformis (maile), Psydrax odoratum (alahe`e), Carex sp., Diospyros

sp. (lama), and Eragrostis variabilis (kawelu) (HHP 1994d8, 1994d11,

1994d12, 1994d14; R. Hobdy, pers. comm. 1994).

The other variety of this species, Cenchrus agrimonioides var.

laysanensis, was known historically from the northwestern Hawaiian

islands

,830 and 2,700 ft) in elevation. Associated plant taxa include Alyxia

oliviformis (maile), Psydrax odoratum (alahe`e), Carex sp., Diospyros

sp. (lama), and Eragrostis variabilis (kawelu) (HHP 1994d8, 1994d11,

1994d12, 1994d14; R. Hobdy, pers. comm. 1994).

The other variety of this species, Cenchrus agrimonioides var.

laysanensis, was known historically from the northwestern Hawaiian

islands

of Laysan, Kure, and Midway, all within the Northwestern Hawaiian

Islands National Wildlife Refuge. This variety has not been seen since

1973. These islands are infrequently surveyed for plants, the last

comprehensive survey being completed in the 1980s, so it is possible

that the variety still exists and will be found with further survey

efforts (Corn 1980; HHP 1991a1, 1991a2).

The major threats to Cenchrus agrimonioides var. agrimonioides are

habitat degradation and/or destruction by feral pigs (Sus scrofa) (Oahu

only), competition with alien plant taxa, and a risk of extinction from

naturally occurring events and/or reduced reproductive vigor due to the

small number of existing individuals. The Pahole Gulch population on

Oahu is potentially threatened by trampling and fire from military

activities and the Maui population is potentially threatened by goats

and cattle (HHP 1994d1, 1994d8, 1994d11, 1994d12, 1994d14; R. Hobdy and

C. Russell, pers. comms. 1994).

Cyanea grimesiana ssp. grimesiana was collected by Charles

Gaudichaud-Beaupre in 1819 on Oahu while he was pharmaceutical botanist

on the vessel Uranie (HHP 1989a, Rock 1919, Wagner et al. 1990).

Gaudichaud later described this taxon and named it for the French

Navy's head pharmacist (Thomas G. Lammers, Field Museum, pers. comm.

1994). Other published names considered synonymous with Cyanea

grimesiana ssp. grimesiana include C. grimesiana var. lydgatei, C.

grimesiana var. mauiensis, C. grimesiana var. munroi, and C. lobata

var. hamakuae (Lammers 1990). Currently, three subspecies are

recognized--the extinct ssp

his taxon and named it for the French

Navy's head pharmacist (Thomas G. Lammers, Field Museum, pers. comm.

1994). Other published names considered synonymous with Cyanea

grimesiana ssp. grimesiana include C. grimesiana var. lydgatei, C.

grimesiana var. mauiensis, C. grimesiana var. munroi, and C. lobata

var. hamakuae (Lammers 1990). Currently, three subspecies are

recognized--the extinct ssp. cylindrocalyx (Rock 1917); ssp.

grimesiana; and the federally endangered ssp. obatae (St. John 1978a).

Cyanea grimesiana ssp. grimesiana, a member of the bellflower

family (Campanulaceae), is a shrub 1 to 3.2 m (3.3 to 10.5 ft) tall.

The leaves are pinnately divided, with 9 to 12 segments per side. The

leaf blades are 27 to 58 cm (10.6 to 22.9 in.) long and 14 to 32 cm

(5.5 to 12.6 in.) wide (across the segments). The inflorescence

comprises 6 to 12 flowers. The calyx lobes, 10 to 44 mm (0.4 to 2 in.)

long and 4 to 14 mm (0.2 to 0.55 in.) wide, are egg-shaped to lance-

shaped and overlap at the base. The petals are purplish or greenish to

yellowish white, often suffused or striped with magenta, and 55 to 80

mm (2 to 3 in.) long. The orange berries are 18 to 30 mm (0.7 to 1.2

in.) long. This species is distinguished from others in this endemic

Hawaiian genus by the pinnately lobed leaf margins and the width of the

leaf blades. This subspecies is distinguished from the other two

subspecies by the shape and size of the calyx lobes which overlap at

the base (Lammers 1990).

Historically Cyanea grimesiana ssp. grimesiana was known from at

least 40 populations located in the Waianae and Koolau mountains on

Oahu, Wailau Valley and Puu Kahea on Molokai, central and northern

Lanai, and scattered locations on Maui (HHP 1994e1 to 1994e39; Heidi

Bornhorst, TNCH, and Steven Perlman, National Tropical Botanical

Garden, pers. comms. 1992). Currently Cyanea grimesiana ssp

Historically Cyanea grimesiana ssp. grimesiana was known from at

least 40 populations located in the Waianae and Koolau mountains on

Oahu, Wailau Valley and Puu Kahea on Molokai, central and northern

Lanai, and scattered locations on Maui (HHP 1994e1 to 1994e39; Heidi

Bornhorst, TNCH, and Steven Perlman, National Tropical Botanical

Garden, pers. comms. 1992). Currently Cyanea grimesiana ssp. grimesiana

is known from 15 populations on those 4 islands (HHP 1994e1, 1994e4,

1994e6 to 1994e8, 1994e14, 1994e15, 1994e26, 1994e27, 1994e34, 1994e36

to 1994e38; H. Bornhorst and S. Perlman, pers. comms. 1992; Art

Medeiros, National Biological Service, pers. comm. 1994). On Oahu, the

following populations are known from the Waianae Mountains--one

population from Mt. Kaala NAR and three populations from Pahole NAR on

State land, one population each from North Haleauau Gulch on the

federally owned Schofield Barracks Military Reservation and North

Kaluaa Gulch on private land. Two populations are known from Oahu's

Koolau Mountains on State and private land (HHP 1994e1, 1994e4, 1994e8,

1994e14, 1994e15, 1994e34, 1994e38; H. Bornhorst and S. Perlman, pers.

comms. 1992). On Molokai, one population is known from Kukuinui Ridge

on State land and the other is within the State's Olokui NAR (HHP

1994e7, 1994e36). On Lanai, two populations are known from Kaiholena

Gulch and an unnamed gulch south of Puhielelu Ridge, in the central

portion of the island, both on private land (HHP 1994e27, 1994e37). On

Maui, two populations are known from Iao Valley on private land and one

population from Kipahulu Valley within Haleakala National Park (HHP

1994e6, 1994e26; A. Medeiros, pers. comm. 1994). The total current

populations statewide consist of fewer than 400 individuals, with over

350 occurring in Kipahulu Valley on Maui (HHP 1994e1, 1994e4, 1994e8,

1994e14, 1994e15, 1994e34, 1994e38; H. Bornhorst and S. Perlman, pers.

comms. 1992; A. Medeiros, pers. comm. 1994). Cyanea grimesiana ssp

pahulu Valley within Haleakala National Park (HHP

1994e6, 1994e26; A. Medeiros, pers. comm. 1994). The total current

populations statewide consist of fewer than 400 individuals, with over

350 occurring in Kipahulu Valley on Maui (HHP 1994e1, 1994e4, 1994e8,

1994e14, 1994e15, 1994e34, 1994e38; H. Bornhorst and S. Perlman, pers.

comms. 1992; A. Medeiros, pers. comm. 1994). Cyanea grimesiana ssp.

grimesiana is typically found in mesic forest often dominated by `ohi`a

or `ohi`a and koa, or on rocky or steep slopes of stream banks, and

between 350 and 945 m (1,150 and 3,100 ft) elevation. Associated plant

taxa include Antidesma sp. (hame), Bobea sp. (`ahakea), Psychotria sp.

(kopiko), Xylosma sp. (maua), and various native and alien ferns (HHP

1994e1, 1994e7, 1994e8, 1994e14, 1994e34, 1994e37; H. Bornhorst and S.

Perlman, pers. comms. 1992).

The major threats to Cyanea grimesiana ssp. grimesiana are habitat

degradation and/or destruction caused by wild and feral ungulates (axis

deer (Axis axis), goats, and pigs) and competition with various alien

plants. Potential overcollection, trampling by hikers and/or military

activities, and fire threaten the Palikea population on Oahu. The Oahu

populations are also threatened by landslides. The Kipahulu Valley

population on Maui is threatened by competition with Cyathea cooperi

(Australian tree fern) and various alien grasses (HHP 1994e1, 1994e7,

1994e34, 1994e37; H. Bornhorst and S. Perlman, pers. comms. 1992; A.

Medeiros, pers. comm. 1994; Loyal Mehrhoff, U.S. Fish and Wildlife

Service, pers. comm. 1995). Rats (Rattus spp.) are also a potential

threat, since they are known to eat the fruits and girdle the stems of

species in the bellflower family (Joel Lau, TNCH, pers. comm. 1994).

First collected by Chamisso between 1816 and 1817 in the ``Sandwich

Islands,'' Cyperus trachysanthos was described by William J. Hooker and

G.A.W. Arnott in 1832 (Hillebrand 1888, Mill et al. 1988)

ers. comm. 1995). Rats (Rattus spp.) are also a potential

threat, since they are known to eat the fruits and girdle the stems of

species in the bellflower family (Joel Lau, TNCH, pers. comm. 1994).

First collected by Chamisso between 1816 and 1817 in the ``Sandwich

Islands,'' Cyperus trachysanthos was described by William J. Hooker and

G.A.W. Arnott in 1832 (Hillebrand 1888, Mill et al. 1988). This species

has been maintained in the most recent treatment of Hawaiian members of

the genus (Koyama 1990). The specific epithet refers to the rough or

papery flowers.

Cyperus trachysanthos, a member of the sedge family (Cyperaceae),

is a perennial grass-like plant with a short rhizome (underground

stem). The culms (aerial stems) are densely tufted, obtusely

triangular, 20 to 45 cm (8 to 18 in.) tall, sticky, and leafy at the

base. The linear leaf blades are green, covered with a waxy coating,

and somewhat leathery. The leaf sheath is yellowish brown and

partitioned with nodes. The flower clusters are 5 to 9 cm (2 to 3.5

in.) long and 6 to 12 cm (2 to 5 in.) wide. Each flower head contains

10 to 30 pale yellowish brown spikelets, each of which contains 8 to 20

flowers. The glumes (small pair of bracts at the base of each spikelet)

are broadly egg-shaped. The fruit is a dark brown, egg-shaped achene.

This species is distinguished from others in the genus by the short

rhizome, the leaf sheath with partitions at the nodes, the shape of the

glumes, and the length of the culms (Koyama 1990).

Historically Cyperus trachysanthos was known from Niihau, Kauai,

scattered locations on Oahu, Mauna Loa on Molokai, and Kaena on Lanai

(HHP 1994f1 to 1994f15, HPCC 1993a).

ers.

comms. 1994).

In 1970, Steven Montgomery and the late Wayne Gagne collected a

specimen of an unidentified tree in Mahanaloa Valley on Kauai. The

following year, Derral Herbst (1971) described it as Euphorbia

haeleeleana, naming it for another valley where the plant grows. This

species has been maintained in the most recent treatment of Hawaiian

members of the genus (Wagner et al. 1990).

Euphorbia haeleeleana, a member of the spurge family

(Euphorbiaceae), is a dioecious (female and male flowers on separate

plants) tree 3 to 14 m (10 to 46 ft) tall. The alternate leaves are

papery in texture, elliptic, and usually 10 to 15 cm (4 to 6 in.) long

and 4 to 6 cm (2 in.) wide. Male trees bear many small male flowers

within a cyathium (a compact inflorescence with small individual

flowers). The female trees have cyathia with a single female flower

surrounded by numerous abortive male flowers. The capsules (dry fruit

that open at maturity) are round. This species is distinguished from

others in the genus in that it is a tree, whereas most of the other

species are herbs or shrubs, as well as by the large leaves with

prominent veins (Wagner et al. 1990).

Euphorbia haeleeleana is known historically and currently from 15

populations and between 450 and 625 individuals from northwestern Kauai

and the Waianae Mountains of Oahu (HHP 1994g1 to 1994g14, HPCC 1993b).

On Kauai, 11 populations are known from valley slopes and cliffs along

Kauai's northwestern coast from Pohakuao to Haeleele Valley and Hipalau

Valley within Waimea Canyon. All of the Kauai populations occur on

State land, including Kuia NAR and the Na Pali Coast State Park (HHP

1994g1 to 1994g4, 1994g7 to 1994g9, 1994g11, 1994g12, 1994g14; HPCC

1993b). On Oahu, four populations are known from the northern Waianae

Mountains. Three of these populations occur on State land leased by the

DOD for the Makua Military Reservation, and the fourth population

occurs on privately owned land (HHP 1994g5, 1994g6, 1994g10, 1994g13)

ng Kuia NAR and the Na Pali Coast State Park (HHP

1994g1 to 1994g4, 1994g7 to 1994g9, 1994g11, 1994g12, 1994g14; HPCC

1993b). On Oahu, four populations are known from the northern Waianae

Mountains. Three of these populations occur on State land leased by the

DOD for the Makua Military Reservation, and the fourth population

occurs on privately owned land (HHP 1994g5, 1994g6, 1994g10, 1994g13).

Euphorbia haeleeleana is usually found in lowland mixed mesic or dry

forest that is often dominated by ohia, ohia and koa, lama, or

Aleurites moluccana (kukui). Typically found between 205 and 670 m (680

and 2,200 ft) elevation, a few populations have been found at

elevations up to 870 m (2,860 ft). Associated plant taxa include aalii,

Erythrina sandwicensis (wiliwili), Pleomele sp. (hala pepe), Reynoldsia

sandwicensis (ohe), and Sapindus oahuensis (aulu) (HHP 1994g1 to

1994g14, HPCC 1993b).

Habitat degradation and/or destruction by wild and feral ungulates

including black-tailed deer (Odocoileus hemionus), goats, and pigs;

predation by rats; fire; potential military activities; and competition

with alien plant taxa seriously threaten Euphorbia haeleeleana (HHP

1994g1, 1994g3 to 1994g7, 1994g10, 1994g12 to 1994g14; HPCC 1993b).

Isodendrion laurifolium was first described by Gray in 1852 based

on a collection made on Oahu by members of the U.S. Exploring

Expedition in 1840 (St. John 1952). Other published names considered

synonymous with Isodendrion laurifolium are I. forbesii, I. lydgatei,

I. subsessilifolium, and I. waianaeense (Wagner et al. 1990). The

specific epithet refers to the resemblance in the leaves to those of

the laurel tree.

Isodendrion laurifolium, a member of the violet family (Violaceae),

is a slender, straight shrub, generally 1 to 2 m (3 to 6 ft) tall, with

few branches. The leaves, 4 to 16 cm (2 to 6 in.) long and 1.5 to 5 cm

(0.6 to 2 in.) wide, are somewhat leathery, oblong-elliptic, narrowly

elliptic lance-shaped, or rarely elliptic

et refers to the resemblance in the leaves to those of

the laurel tree.

Isodendrion laurifolium, a member of the violet family (Violaceae),

is a slender, straight shrub, generally 1 to 2 m (3 to 6 ft) tall, with

few branches. The leaves, 4 to 16 cm (2 to 6 in.) long and 1.5 to 5 cm

(0.6 to 2 in.) wide, are somewhat leathery, oblong-elliptic, narrowly

elliptic lance-shaped, or rarely elliptic. The fragrant flowers are

perfect and borne singly along the stems. The five petals, which are

clawed and somewhat unequal, are purple with greenish white edges

externally, and dusty purple on the inner face of the lobe. The fruit

is a green, lance-shaped capsule. This species is distinguished from

others in this endemic Hawaiian genus by the shape of its leaves

(Wagner et al. 1990).

Historically Isodendrion laurifolium was known from scattered

locations on Kauai and both the Waianae and Koolau mountains of Oahu

(HHP 1994h1 to 1994h21). A total of 14 populations on 2 islands

comprising approximately 190 to 210 individuals is currently known

statewide. On Kauai, approximately 130 to 140 individuals are known

from 8 populations in the following locations--Paaiki, Kawaiula,

Haeleele, Makaha, Poopooiki, and Kuia valleys, and the Koaie branch of

Waimea Canyon. All Kauai populations occur on State-owned land, with

several in Kuia NAR (HHP 1994h6, 1994h9 to 1994h13, 1994h15, 1994h21).

On Oahu, approximately 60 to 70 individuals of this species are known

from 6 populations--Makaha in the Waianae Mountains, on City and County

of Honolulu land; East Makaleha Valley, Waianae Kai, Kaawa Gulch, and

Kaumokunui Gulch in the Waianae Mountains, on State land, including Mt.

Kaala NAR; and south Kaukonahua Gulch within the federally owned

Schofield Barracks Military Reservation in the Koolau Mountains (HHP

1994h1, 1994h2, 1994h16, 1994h17, 1994h18, 1994h20)

6 populations--Makaha in the Waianae Mountains, on City and County

of Honolulu land; East Makaleha Valley, Waianae Kai, Kaawa Gulch, and

Kaumokunui Gulch in the Waianae Mountains, on State land, including Mt.

Kaala NAR; and south Kaukonahua Gulch within the federally owned

Schofield Barracks Military Reservation in the Koolau Mountains (HHP

1994h1, 1994h2, 1994h16, 1994h17, 1994h18, 1994h20). Isodendrion

laurifolium is usually found between 490 and 820 m (1,620 and 2,700 ft)

elevation in diverse mesic forest, or rarely wet forest, dominated by

ohia or koa-ohia, or ohia-lama with hame, maua, Hedyotis terminalis

(manono), Pisonia sp. (papala kepau), and Pouteria sp. (alaa) (HHP

1994h1, 1994h2, 1994h6, 1994h9 to 1994h13, 1994h15 to 1994h18,

1994h20).

The primary threats to Isodendrion laurifolium are habitat

degradation by ungulates (black-tailed deer, goats, and pigs),

competition with alien plant taxa, and a potential threat from military

activities (HHP 1994h2, 1994h6, 1994h9, 1994h11, 1994h15 to 1994h18,

1994h20, 1994h21).

Isodendrion longifolium was first collected in 1840 in the

``Kaala'' [Waianae] Mountains of Oahu by members of the U.S. Exploring

Expedition. Gray later named this species for its long leaves (St. John

1952). Isodendrion christensenii and Isodendrion maculatum (St. John

1952, 1978b) are considered synonymous with Isodendrion longifolium

(Wagner et al. 1990).

Isodendrion longifolium, a member of the violet family, is a

slender, straight shrub generally 0.6 to 2 m (2 to 7 ft) tall. The

hairless, somewhat leathery leaves are lance-shaped, 10 to 30 cm (4 to

12 in.) long, and 3.4 to 6.5 cm (1 to 3 in.)

odendrion christensenii and Isodendrion maculatum (St. John

1952, 1978b) are considered synonymous with Isodendrion longifolium

(Wagner et al. 1990).

Isodendrion longifolium, a member of the violet family, is a

slender, straight shrub generally 0.6 to 2 m (2 to 7 ft) tall. The

hairless, somewhat leathery leaves are lance-shaped, 10 to 30 cm (4 to

12 in.) long, and 3.4 to 6.5 cm (1 to 3 in.)

wide. The fragrant flowers are perfect and are borne singly along the

branches. The five petals are purple, clawed, and somewhat unequal. The

purple capsular fruit is 10 mm (0.4 in.) long. This species is

distinguished from others in this endemic Hawaiian genus by the shape

of its leaves (Wagner et al. 1990).

Historically Isodendrion longifolium was known from scattered

locations on Kauai and the Waianae Mountains on Oahu (HHP 1994i1 to

1994i18; HPCC 1990a; Lorence and Flynn 1991, 1993). Currently

Isodendrion longifolium is known from 18 populations on Kauai and Oahu.

On Kauai, 15 populations totalling 500 to 800 individuals are scattered

over ridges and valley slopes of northwestern Kauai. Eight populations

occur on private land and seven are found on State land, which includes

Hono O Na Pali NAR and the Na Pali Coast State Park (HHP 1994i3 to

1994i5, 1994i7 to 1994i13, 1994i15 to 1994i17; HPCC 1990a; Lorence and

Flynn 1991, 1993). Three populations totalling 30 to 40 individuals are

known from Oahu. Two populations are found within Mt. Kaala NAR on

State-owned land in the Waianae Mountains, and the third population is

found in Makaua Gulch on private land in the Koolau Mountains (HHP

1994i2, 1994i14, 1994i18). The total current populations throughout the

State consist of fewer than 1,000 individuals, with most of the

populations and individuals occurring on Kauai. Isodendrion longifolium

is found on steep slopes, gulches, and stream banks in mixed mesic or

wet ohia forest, usually between 410 and 760 m (1,345 and 2,500 ft)

elevation. Associated plant taxa include ahakea, hame, Cyanea sp

, 1994i18). The total current populations throughout the

State consist of fewer than 1,000 individuals, with most of the

populations and individuals occurring on Kauai. Isodendrion longifolium

is found on steep slopes, gulches, and stream banks in mixed mesic or

wet ohia forest, usually between 410 and 760 m (1,345 and 2,500 ft)

elevation. Associated plant taxa include ahakea, hame, Cyanea sp.

(haha), Hedyotis sp., Perrottetia sandwicensis (olomea), and

Pittosporum sp. (hoa'wa) (HHP 1994i2 to 1994i8, 1994i10 to 1994i18;

HPCC 1990a; Lorence and Flynn 1991, 1993).

The major threats to Isodendrion longifolium are habitat

degradation and/or destruction by feral goats and pigs and competition

with various alien plant taxa. On Oahu, the Palikea Gulch population is

potentially threatened by overcollection and fire (HHP 1994i2, 1994i13,

1994i15 to 1994i17; HPCC 1990a; Lorence and Flynn 1993).

In 1912, J.F. Stokes collected a grass on Niihau that St. John

later named Panicum niihauense (St. John 1931). This species has been

maintained in the most recent treatment of Hawaiian members of the

genus (Davidse 1990).

Panicum niihauense, a member of the grass family, is a perennial

bunchgrass with unbranched culms 50 to 125 cm (20 to 49 in.) long. The

leaf blades are flat, 15 to 35 cm (6 to 14 in.) long and 0.7 to 1.9 cm

(0.3 to 0.7 in.) wide. The panicles (loosely branched inflorescences)

are 13 to 35 cm (5 to 14 in.) long. The panicle branches lie close to

the main stem of the inflorescence (not spreading outward), and the

spikelets are borne densely along the inflorescence branches. The

spikelets, which contain two flowers, are 2.6 to 3.2 mm (0.1 in.) long.

This species is distinguished from others in the genus by the shape of

the inflorescence branches, which are erect and appressed, and the

arrangement of the spikelets, which are densely clustered (Davidse

1990).

Panicum niihauense was known historically from Niihau and one

location on Kauai (HHP 1994j1 to 1994j3)

s. The

spikelets, which contain two flowers, are 2.6 to 3.2 mm (0.1 in.) long.

This species is distinguished from others in the genus by the shape of

the inflorescence branches, which are erect and appressed, and the

arrangement of the spikelets, which are densely clustered (Davidse

1990).

Panicum niihauense was known historically from Niihau and one

location on Kauai (HHP 1994j1 to 1994j3). Currently this species is

only known from State-owned land at Polihale State Park on Kauai. This

single population of 23 individuals is found scattered in sand dunes in

a coastal shrubland at between 9 and 15 m (30 and 50 ft) elevation.

Associated plant taxa include aalii, Cassytha filiformis (kaunaoa

pehu), Prosopis pallida (kiawe), Scaevola sericea (naupaka), Sida

fallax (ilima), and Vitex sp. (kolokolo kahakai) (HHP 1993, 1994j3).

The primary threats to the single known population of Panicum

niihauense are off-road vehicles, competition with alien plant taxa,

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

reproductive vigor due to the small number of individuals in one

remaining population (HHP 1993; HPCC 1992b; J. Lau and C. Russell,

pers. comms. 1994).

Phyllostegia parviflora was first described by Gaudichaud-Beaupre

as Prasium parviflorum based on a specimen collected on Oahu

(Hillebrand 1888). Later, Bentham transferred the species to

Phyllostegia and this is the name accepted in the current treatment of

Hawaiian members of the genus (Wagner et al. 1990). Currently two

varieties are recognized--var. parviflora and var. glabriuscula,

described by Asa Gray in 1862 (Wagner et al. 1990). There is also a

newly discovered variety that has not yet been formally named (Wagner

et al. 1990). These recent collections of Phyllostegia parviflora from

the Waianae Mountains differ from the other varieties by several

characters and represent a new variety previously considered to be

Phyllostegia mollis var. lydgatei (Wagner et al

cula,

described by Asa Gray in 1862 (Wagner et al. 1990). There is also a

newly discovered variety that has not yet been formally named (Wagner

et al. 1990). These recent collections of Phyllostegia parviflora from

the Waianae Mountains differ from the other varieties by several

characters and represent a new variety previously considered to be

Phyllostegia mollis var. lydgatei (Wagner et al. 1990; Warren Wagner,

Smithsonian Institution, in litt., 1994; W. Wagner, pers. comm. 1994).

Published names that Wagner et al. (1990) consider to be synonymous

with Phyllostegia parviflora var. parviflora include P. leptostachys,

P. parviflora var. canescens, P. parviflora var. gaudichaudii, and P.

parviflora var. major (Wagner et al. 1990).

Phyllostegia parviflora, a member of the mint family (Lamiaceae),

is a perennial herb. The egg-shaped to broadly egg-shaped, wrinkled

leaves are usually 19 to 33 cm (7.5 to 13 in.) long and 7.5 to 15.3 cm

(3 to 6 in.) wide. The leaf stalks are typically 6 to 13.5 cm (2.4 to

5.3 in.) long. Usually six flowers are arranged along a flowering

stalk. The corolla is white, sometimes tinged with purple, and about 9

to 13 mm (0.4 to 0.5 in.) long. The upper corolla lip is about 3 mm

(0.1 in.) long while the lower lip is about 6 to 9 mm (0.2 to 0.4 in.)

long. The fruits are nutlets. The species is distinguished from others

of the genus by the leaf shape and length of the leaf stalk and lower

corolla lip. Phyllostegia parviflora var. glabriuscula has fewer

glandular hairs in the inflorescence, less pubescent leaves, and

usually unbranched inflorescences, as compared to P. parviflora var.

parviflora. The newly discovered variety of Phyllostegia parviflora has

shorter leaf stalks, spreading hairs on the leaf stalks, and fewer

gland-tipped hairs in the inflorescence (Wagner et al. 1990).

Historically Phyllostegia parviflora was known from three islands--

Oahu, Hawaii, and Maui (HHP 1994x1 to 1994x3, 1994y1 to 1994y9, 1994z1,

1994z2; Sherff 1935; Wagner et al. 1990)

rviflora var.

parviflora. The newly discovered variety of Phyllostegia parviflora has

shorter leaf stalks, spreading hairs on the leaf stalks, and fewer

gland-tipped hairs in the inflorescence (Wagner et al. 1990).

Historically Phyllostegia parviflora was known from three islands--

Oahu, Hawaii, and Maui (HHP 1994x1 to 1994x3, 1994y1 to 1994y9, 1994z1,

1994z2; Sherff 1935; Wagner et al. 1990). This species is now known

only from two populations on Oahu. Phyllostegia parviflora var.

glabriuscula was only known from the island of Hawaii on private land

and has not been observed since the 1800s (HHP 1994x1 to 1994x3).

Phyllostegia parviflora var. parviflora was known from Oahu and Maui,

but is now known from only four plants in North Kaukonahua Stream in

the Koolau Mountains on Oahu, on State land leased by the DOD for the

Kawailoa Training Area (HHP 1994y9). The new variety of Phyllostegia

parviflora is known from only 19 plants in North Palawai Gulch within

TNCH's Honouliuli Preserve (HHP 1994z1). Phyllostegia parviflora is

typically found on moderate to steep slopes in diverse wet forest from

500 to 830 m (1,640 to 2,700 ft) elevation. Native taxa associated with

Phyllostegia parviflora include ohia, Broussaisia arguta (kanawao),

Mysine sp. (kolea), Pipturus albidus (mamaki), and Cyrtandra sp.

(haiwale) (HHP 1994y9, 1994z1; Wagner et al. 1990).

The major threats to Phyllostegia parviflora are habitat

degradation and/or destruction by feral pigs, competition with several

alien plant taxa, and a risk of extinction from naturally occurring

events and/or reduced reproductive vigor due to the small number of

a (kanawao),

Mysine sp. (kolea), Pipturus albidus (mamaki), and Cyrtandra sp.

(haiwale) (HHP 1994y9, 1994z1; Wagner et al. 1990).

The major threats to Phyllostegia parviflora are habitat

degradation and/or destruction by feral pigs, competition with several

alien plant taxa, and a risk of extinction from naturally occurring

events and/or reduced reproductive vigor due to the small number of

remaining individuals and populations (HHP 1994y9, 1994z1; C. Russell,

pers. comm. 1994).

Hillebrand (1888) described and named Habenaria holochila based on

his collections and on material sent to him by J.M. Lydgate and V.

Knudsen. Subsequently, F.W. Kraenzlin transferred the species to the

genus Platanthera, resulting in the new combination Platanthera

holochila; this name is accepted in the current treatment of Hawaiian

members of the family (Kores 1979, Wagner et al. 1990). C.A. Luer

(1975) published the combination Platanthera hyperborea var.

viridiflora, now considered synonymous with Platanthera holochila

(Wagner et al. 1990). The specific epithet refers to the undivided lip

of the flower.

Platanthera holochila, a member of the orchid family (Orchidaceae),

is an erect, deciduous herb. The stems arise from underground tubers

and are 15 to 60 cm (6 to 24 in.) long. The pale-green leaves,

generally 4 to 12 cm (2 to 5 in.) long and 1 to 3 cm (0.4 to 1 in.)

wide, are lance to egg-shaped. The greenish-yellow flowers occur in

open spikes. The back sepal is inversely egg-shaped and hooded and the

lateral sepals are erect and elliptic. The lateral petals, 2 to 2.5 cm

(1 in.) long, are irregularly egg-shaped and enclosed by the sepals.

The lowest petal is strap-like, about 3 mm (0.1 in.) long, with a 3 to

5 mm (0.1 to 0.2 in.) long spur at the base. The fruit is an ellipsoid

capsule with six ribs. This is the only species of this genus that

occurs in the Hawaiian Islands (Wagner et al. 1990)

al sepals are erect and elliptic. The lateral petals, 2 to 2.5 cm

(1 in.) long, are irregularly egg-shaped and enclosed by the sepals.

The lowest petal is strap-like, about 3 mm (0.1 in.) long, with a 3 to

5 mm (0.1 to 0.2 in.) long spur at the base. The fruit is an ellipsoid

capsule with six ribs. This is the only species of this genus that

occurs in the Hawaiian Islands (Wagner et al. 1990).

Historically Platanthera holochila was known from the Alakai Swamp

and Kaholuamano area and the Wahiawa Mountains on Kauai, the Koolau

Mountains on Oahu, scattered locations on Molokai, and various

locations on Maui (HHP 1994k1 to 1994k17). Currently Platanthera

holochila is known from five locations on Kauai, Molokai, and Maui.

Before the devastation of Hurricane Iniki on Kauai in September 1992,

two populations were known from the Alakai Swamp within the Alakai

Wilderness Preserve on State land (HHP 1994k4, 1994k8). One population,

last seen in 1977, was not seen when the location was revisited in

1989. The other population comprised 100 plantlets representing 3

clones before Hurricane Iniki, but only 10 immature plantlets

representing 1 clone over a year after the hurricane (Perlman 1995). On

Molokai, a single population of fewer than ten plants occurs on private

land in TNCH's Kamakou Preserve (HHP 1994k3). On Maui, three

populations are known--Hanaula, on State and private land, and TNCH's

Waikamoi and Kapunakea Preserves (HHP 1994k9, 1994k12, 1994k17). The 5

current populations comprise fewer than 35 individuals--1 individual on

Kauai; fewer than 10 on Molokai; and between 15 and 20 on Maui (HHP

1994k3, 1994k4, 1994k8, 1994k9, 1994k12, 1994k17). Platanthera

holochila is found in ohia-Dicranopteris linearis (uluhe) montane wet

forest or ohia mixed montane bog between 1,050 and 1,870 m (3,450 and

6,120 ft) elevation. Associated plant taxa include Cibotium sp.

(hapuu), Coprosma ernodeoides (kukaenene), Oreobolus sp., Styphelia sp.

(pukiawe), and Vaccinium spp

een 15 and 20 on Maui (HHP

1994k3, 1994k4, 1994k8, 1994k9, 1994k12, 1994k17). Platanthera

holochila is found in ohia-Dicranopteris linearis (uluhe) montane wet

forest or ohia mixed montane bog between 1,050 and 1,870 m (3,450 and

6,120 ft) elevation. Associated plant taxa include Cibotium sp.

(hapuu), Coprosma ernodeoides (kukaenene), Oreobolus sp., Styphelia sp.

(pukiawe), and Vaccinium spp. (ohelo) (HHP 1994k3, 1994k4, 1994k8,

1994k9, 1994k12, 1994k17).

The primary threats to Platanthera holochila are habitat

degradation and/or destruction by ungulates such as cattle and feral

pigs, competition with alien plant taxa, overcollection, and a risk of

extinction from naturally occurring events due to the small number of

remaining populations and individuals (HHP 1994k4, 1994k9, 1994k12,

1994k17; C. Russell, pers. comm. 1994).

While hiking the Schofield-Waikane Trail on Oahu, St. John

collected a plant that he and Edward Hosaka described in 1935 as

Sanicula purpurea. Other published names considered synonymous with

this species include S. lobata and S. sandwicensis (Constance and

Affolter 1990). The specific epithet refers to the purple petals.

Sanicula purpurea, a member of the parsley family (Apiaceae), is a

stout perennial herb, 8 to 36 cm (3 to 14 in.) tall, arising from a

massive stem. The basal leaves are numerous and leathery in texture.

Two to 8 cm (0.8 to 3 in.) wide, the leaves are kidney-shaped or

circular to egg-heart-shaped, with three to seven lobes. The small

flowers are purple or cream-colored with a purple tinge and occur in

branched terminal clusters, each of which contains six to ten flowers.

Each flower cluster contains one to three perfect flowers and five to

seven staminate flowers. The nearly spherical fruits are covered with

prickles. This species is distinguished from others in the genus by the

number of flowers per cluster and by the color of the petals (Constance

and Affolter 1990)

e tinge and occur in

branched terminal clusters, each of which contains six to ten flowers.

Each flower cluster contains one to three perfect flowers and five to

seven staminate flowers. The nearly spherical fruits are covered with

prickles. This species is distinguished from others in the genus by the

number of flowers per cluster and by the color of the petals (Constance

and Affolter 1990).

Historically Sanicula purpurea was known from six scattered

locations along the Koolau Mountains of Oahu and from four locations on

West Maui (HHP 1994L1 to 1994L10). This species is currently known from

one population in Oahu's Koolau Mountains on the boundary of State land

and the federally owned Schofield Barracks Military Reservation;

another population, last seen on the summit between Aiea and Waimano in

1985, was not seen during a 1987 survey and may no longer be extant. On

West Maui, three populations are currently known on State land,

including West Maui NAR, and one population is known from private land

(HHP 1994L1 to 1994L10). The total number of plants of this species is

estimated to be between 130 and 210 individuals. This species typically

grows in open ohia mixed montane bogs between 700 and 1,625 m (2,300

and 5,330 ft) elevation. Associated plant taxa include pukiawe,

Argyroxiphium grayanum (greensword), Lagenifera sp., Machaerina sp.

(uki), and Oreobolus furcatus (HHP 1994L1, 1994L6 to 1994L9).

Habitat degradation by feral pigs and a risk of extinction from

naturally occurring events and/or reduced reproductive vigor due to the

small number of existing populations are the major threats to Sanicula

purpurea. On Oahu, the Kaukonahua-Kahana Divide population is

additionally threatened by competition with an alien grass, Axonopus

fissifolius (narrow-leaved carpetgrass), and potentially by military

activities (HHP 1994L1, 1994L9).

Schiedea hookeri was first described by Gray in 1854 based on a

specimen collected on Oahu by Archibald Menzies of the U.S

ions are the major threats to Sanicula

purpurea. On Oahu, the Kaukonahua-Kahana Divide population is

additionally threatened by competition with an alien grass, Axonopus

fissifolius (narrow-leaved carpetgrass), and potentially by military

activities (HHP 1994L1, 1994L9).

Schiedea hookeri was first described by Gray in 1854 based on a

specimen collected on Oahu by Archibald Menzies of the U.S. Exploring

Expedition (Wagner et al. 1990). Later, Earl Sherff described S.

hookeri var. acrisepala and S. hookeri var. intercedens, considered

synonyms of S. hookeri (Sherff 1944, 1945; Wagner et al. 1990).

Schiedea hookeri, a member of the pink family (Caryophyllaceae), is

a sprawling or clumped perennial herb. The stems, 0.3 to 0.5 m (1 to

1.6 ft) long, curve slightly upward or lie close to the ground and

often produce matted clumps. The thin, opposite leaves, 3 to 8 cm (1.2

to 3.2 in.) long and 0.4 to 1.5 cm (0.2 to 0.6 in.) wide, are narrowly

lance-shaped to narrowly elliptic. The petalless, perfect flowers are

borne in open branched inflorescences, which are hairy, somewhat

sticky, and 5 to 22 cm (2 to 9 in.) long. The lance-shaped sepals are

green to purple and 3 to 4.5 mm (1.2 to 1.8 in.) long. The fruit is a

capsule about 3 mm (0.1 in.) long. This species is distinguished from

others in this endemic Hawaiian genus by its open, hairy, and sometimes

sticky inflorescence, and by the size of the capsules (Wagner et al.

1990).

Historically Schiedea hookeri was known from the Waianae Mountains

of Oahu and Haleakala on Maui (HHP 1994m1 to 1994m17). Currently this

species is known from 11 populations in

apsule about 3 mm (0.1 in.) long. This species is distinguished from

others in this endemic Hawaiian genus by its open, hairy, and sometimes

sticky inflorescence, and by the size of the capsules (Wagner et al.

1990).

Historically Schiedea hookeri was known from the Waianae Mountains

of Oahu and Haleakala on Maui (HHP 1994m1 to 1994m17). Currently this

species is known from 11 populations in

Oahu's Waianae Mountains. Between 220 and 330 individuals are scattered

on slopes and ridges from Kaluakauila Gulch to Lualualei Valley--1

population on private land in TNCH's Honouliuli Preserve; 3 populations

on City and County of Honolulu land; 3 populations on State land, 1 of

which is on land leased by the DOD for Makua Military Reservation; and

4 populations on Federal land (3 on Lualualei Naval Magazine and 1 on

Schofield Barracks Military Reservation) (HHP 1994m1, 1994m5, 1994m8,

1994m9, 1994m11 to 1994m17). Schiedea hookeri is usually found in

diverse mesic or dry lowland forest, often with ohia or lama dominant,

between 365 and 790 m (1,200 and 2,600 ft) elevation. One population is

reported at an elevation of 850 to 900 m (2,800 to 2,950 ft).

Associated plant taxa include aalii, Artemisia australis (ahinahina),

Bidens sp. (kookoolau), Carex meyenii, and Eragrostis grandis (kawelu)

(HHP 1994m5, 1994m6, 1994m9, 1994m11 to 1994m17).

The primary threats to Schiedea hookeri are habitat degradation

and/or destruction by feral goats and pigs and competition with alien

plant taxa. The Kaluakauila Gulch population is also potentially

threatened by fire and military activities (HHP 1994m5, 1994m8, 1994m11

to 1994m13, 1994m15 to 1994m17).

Schiedea kauaiensis was first collected by Otto Degener and Amy

Greenwell in 1952. Degener and E.E. Sherff considered this collection

from Kauai to be a new variety of Schiedea nuttallii, previously known

only from Oahu, and named it Schiedea nuttallii var. pauciflora (Sherff

1952). In 1988, St

ened by fire and military activities (HHP 1994m5, 1994m8, 1994m11

to 1994m13, 1994m15 to 1994m17).

Schiedea kauaiensis was first collected by Otto Degener and Amy

Greenwell in 1952. Degener and E.E. Sherff considered this collection

from Kauai to be a new variety of Schiedea nuttallii, previously known

only from Oahu, and named it Schiedea nuttallii var. pauciflora (Sherff

1952). In 1988, St. John elevated this variety to species level, naming

it Schiedea kauaiensis. Wagner et al. (1990) recombined this species

with Schiedea nuttallii, without recognizing any varieties. The

authorities on this endemic Hawaiian genus, Stephen Weller, Ann Sakai,

and Warren Wagner, now accept Schiedea kauaiensis as a distinct species

(Stephen Weller, University of California, Irvine, in litt. 1994).

Weller, Sakai, and Wagner consider Schiedea wichmanii St. John to be

synonymous with Schiedea kauaiensis (S. Weller, in litt. 1994).

Schiedea kauaiensis, a member of the pink family, is a generally

hairless, erect subshrub, with stems normally 0.3 to 1.5 m (1 to 5 ft)

long. The green, sometimes purple-tinged leaves are opposite, narrowly

egg-shaped or lance-shaped to narrowly or broadly elliptic, up to 13 cm

(5 in.) long, and 3.5 cm (1.4 in.) wide. The petalless, perfect flowers

are borne in open branched inflorescences, moderately covered with

fine, short, curly, white hairs. The lance-shaped sepals, 2 to 3.8 mm

(0.08 to 1.5 in.) long, are green or sometimes purple-tinged. The fruit

is a capsule. The round to kidney-shaped seeds are about 2 mm (0.08

in.) long. This species is distinguished from others in this endemic

Hawaiian genus by its habit, larger leaves, the hairiness of the

inflorescence, the number of flowers in each inflorescence, larger

flowers, and larger seeds (Wagner et al. 1990; S. Weller, in litt.

1994).

Historically Schiedea kauaiensis was known from the northwestern

side of Kauai, from Papa`a to Mahanaloa

ut 2 mm (0.08

in.) long. This species is distinguished from others in this endemic

Hawaiian genus by its habit, larger leaves, the hairiness of the

inflorescence, the number of flowers in each inflorescence, larger

flowers, and larger seeds (Wagner et al. 1990; S. Weller, in litt.

1994).

Historically Schiedea kauaiensis was known from the northwestern

side of Kauai, from Papa`a to Mahanaloa. It was thought to be extinct

until the 2 currently known populations were found, which total about

15 plants. Both populations occur on State land--the Mahanaloa Valley

population within Kuia NAR and the Kalalau Valley population within Na

Pali Coast State Park. Schiedea kauaiensis typically grows in diverse

mesic forest on steep slopes. Associated plant taxa include Psychotria

hexandra (kopiko), Exocarpus luteolus (heau), lama, the federally

threatened Peucedanum sandwicense (makou), and the proposed Euphorbia

haeleeleana (akoko) (HHP 1994n18; HPCC 1992c2; S. Weller, in litt.

1994).

Threats to Schiedea kauaiensis include habitat degradation and/or

destruction by feral pigs, goats, and deer; competition from several

alien plant taxa; landslides; and a risk of extinction from naturally

occurring events and/or reduced reproductive vigor due to the low

number of individuals in only two known populations (HHP 1994n18, HPCC

1992c2).

In 1834, Thomas Nuttall collected a specimen of Schiedea nuttallii

in the Koolau Mountains of Oahu. Ten years later, William Hooker

described this species (Mill et al. 1988, Nagata 1980). Other published

names considered synonymous with Schiedea nuttallii include S.

nuttallii var. lihuensis and S. oahuensis (Wagner et al. 1990; S.

Weller, in litt. 1994).

Schiedea nuttallii, a member of the pink family, is a generally

hairless, erect subshrub, with stems normally 0.3 to 1.5 m (1 to 5 ft)

long, and internodes usually 0.8 to 4 cm (0.3 to 1.6 in.) long

et al. 1988, Nagata 1980). Other published

names considered synonymous with Schiedea nuttallii include S.

nuttallii var. lihuensis and S. oahuensis (Wagner et al. 1990; S.

Weller, in litt. 1994).

Schiedea nuttallii, a member of the pink family, is a generally

hairless, erect subshrub, with stems normally 0.3 to 1.5 m (1 to 5 ft)

long, and internodes usually 0.8 to 4 cm (0.3 to 1.6 in.) long. The

green, sometimes purple-tinged leaves are opposite, narrowly egg-shaped

or lance-shaped to narrowly or broadly elliptic, 5 to 10 cm (2 to 4

in.) long, and 1.5 to 2 cm (0.6 to 0.8 in.) wide. The petalless,

perfect flowers are borne in open branched inflorescences, normally 20

to 25 cm (8 to 10 in.) long. The lance-shaped sepals, 2 to 3.8 mm (0.08

to 1.5 in.) long, are green or sometimes purple-tinged. The fruit is a

capsule. The round to kidney-shaped seeds are about 1 mm (0.04 in.)

long. This species is distinguished from others in this endemic

Hawaiian genus by its habit, length of the stem internodes, length of

the inflorescence, number of flowers per inflorescence, smaller leaves,

smaller flowers, and smaller seeds (Wagner et al. 1990; S. Weller, in

litt. 1994).

Historically Schiedea nuttallii was known from scattered locations

on southeastern Kauai, Oahu, Molokai, and Maui (HHP 1994n1 to 1994n17;

HPCC 1992c1; S. Weller, in litt. 1994). One population of Schiedea

nuttallii is found on Kauai east of Haupu Peak on private land (HHP

1994n10, HPCC 1992c1). Five populations are found on Oahu--Kahanahaiki

Valley, on State land leased by the DOD for Makua Military Reservation;

two populations within the State owned Pahole NAR; and Ekahanui Gulch,

on private land in TNCH's Honouliuli Preserve (HHP 1994n2 to 1994n4,

1994n14, 1994n17). The statewide total of 6 populations comprises fewer

than 75 individuals of this species, with between 10 and 50 individuals

on Kauai and about 25 on Oahu (HHP 1994n2 to 1994n4, 1994n10, 1994n14,

1994n17; HPCC 1992c1; S. Weller, in litt. 1994)

ulations within the State owned Pahole NAR; and Ekahanui Gulch,

on private land in TNCH's Honouliuli Preserve (HHP 1994n2 to 1994n4,

1994n14, 1994n17). The statewide total of 6 populations comprises fewer

than 75 individuals of this species, with between 10 and 50 individuals

on Kauai and about 25 on Oahu (HHP 1994n2 to 1994n4, 1994n10, 1994n14,

1994n17; HPCC 1992c1; S. Weller, in litt. 1994). Schiedea nuttallii

typically grows in diverse lowland mesic forest, often with `ohi`a

dominant, between 415 and 730 m (1,360 and 2,400 ft) elevation. The

population on Kauai is found at 790 m (2,590 ft) elevation. Associated

plant taxa include hame, kopiko, olomea, papala kepau, and Hedyotis

acuminata (au) (HHP 1994n2 to 1994n4, 1994n10, 1994n14, 1994n17,

1994n18; HPCC 1992c1).

Habitat degradation and/or destruction by feral ungulates such as

pigs and goats, competition with several alien plant taxa, landslides,

potential fire, potential military activities, and a risk of extinction

from naturally occurring events and/or reduced reproductive vigor, due

to the small number of populations and individuals, seriously threaten

Schiedea nuttallii (HHP 1994n2, 1994n17; HPCC 1992c1; C. Russell, pers.

comm. 1994).

Previous Federal Action

Federal action on these plants began when the Smithsonian

Institution's report on plants considered to be endangered or

threatened in the United States, designated as House Document No. 94-

51, was presented to Congress on January 9, 1975. Seven of the 14

proposed taxa were considered to be endangered in that document and 2

were considered to be threatened. On July 1, 1975, the Service

published a

l action on these plants began when the Smithsonian

Institution's report on plants considered to be endangered or

threatened in the United States, designated as House Document No. 94-

51, was presented to Congress on January 9, 1975. Seven of the 14

proposed taxa were considered to be endangered in that document and 2

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 intent to

review the status of the plant taxa named therein. 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). Cyanea grimesiana ssp.

grimesiana (as Cyanea grimesiana var. mauiensis and var. munroi),

Euphorbia haeleeleana, Isodendrion laurifolium, Isodendrion

longifolium, and Platanthera holochila were considered Category 1

species in the 1980 and 1985 notices of review. Category 1 species

(candidates) are those for which the Service has on file substantial

information on biological vulnerability and threats to support

preparation of listing proposals but for which listing proposals have

not yet been published because they are precluded by other listing

activities. Since the 1993 notice, new information suggests that the

nine taxa not previously considered Category 1 species are sufficiently

restricted in numbers and distribution and imminently threatened and

therefore warrant listing.

Summary of Factors Affecting the Species

ng proposals but for which listing proposals have

not yet been published because they are precluded by other listing

activities. Since the 1993 notice, new information suggests that the

nine taxa not previously considered Category 1 species are sufficiently

restricted in numbers and distribution and imminently threatened and

therefore warrant listing.

Summary of Factors Affecting the 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 of

endangered and threatened species. 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 the 14 taxa in this

proposed rule are summarized in Table 2.

Table 2.--Summary of Threats

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Alien mammals

Species ------------------------------------------------------------ Alien Substrate Fire Human Limited

Cattle Deer Goats Pigs Rats plants loss impacts numbers

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Achyranthes mutica.............. X .......... X .......... .......... X .......... .......... .......... X1,3*

Cenchrus agrimonioides.......... P .......... P X .......... X .......... P P X2,3

Cyanea grimesiana ssp. .......... X X X P X X P P ..........

grimesiana.

Cyperus trachysanthos........... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... X .......... .......... .......... X1

Euphorbia haeleeleana........... .......... X X X X X .......... P P ..........

Isodendrion laurifolium......... .......... X X X .......... X .......... .......... P ..........

Isodendrion longifolium......... .......... .......... X X .......... X .........

grimesiana.

Cyperus trachysanthos........... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... X .......... .......... .......... X1

Euphorbia haeleeleana........... .......... X X X X X .......... P P ..........

Isodendrion laurifolium......... .......... X X X .......... X .......... .......... P ..........

Isodendrion longifolium......... .......... .......... X X .......... X .......... P P ..........

Panicum niihauense.............. .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... X .......... .......... X X1,3

Phyllostegia parviflora......... P .......... .......... X .......... X .......... .......... .......... X1,3

Platanthera holochila........... X .......... .......... X .......... X .......... .......... X X1,3

Sanicula purpurea............... .......... .......... .......... X .......... X .......... .......... P X1

Schiedea hookeri................ .......... .......... X X .......... X .......... P P ..........

Schiedea kauaiensis............. .......... X X X .......... X X .......... .......... X1,3

Schiedea nuttallii.............. .......... .......... X X .......... X X P P X2,3

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

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 populations.

3 = No more than 100 individuals.

X2,3

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

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 populations.

3 = No more than 100 individuals.

These factors and their application to Achyranthes mutica A. Gray

(No common name (NCN)), Cenchrus agrimonioides Trin. (kamanomano),

Cyanea grimesiana Gaud. ssp. grimesiana (haha), Cyperus trachysanthos

Hook. & Arnott (pu`uka`a), Euphorbia haeleeleana Herbst (NCN),

Isodendrion laurifolium A. Gray (aupaka), Isodendrion longifolium A.

Gray (aupaka), Panicum niihauense St. John (lau `ehu), Phyllostegia

parviflora (Gaud.) Benth. (NCN), Platanthera holochila (Hillebr.)

Kraenzl. (NCN), Sanicula purpurea St. John & Hosaka (NCN), Schiedea

hookeri A. Gray (NCN), Schiedea kauaiensis St. John (NCN), and Schiedea

nuttallii Hook. (NCN) are as follows:

A. The present or threatened destruction, modification, or curtailment

of its habitat or range

Native vegetation on all of the main Hawaiian Islands has undergone

extreme alteration because of past and present land management

practices including ranching, deliberate alien animal and plant

introductions, and agricultural development (Cuddihy and Stone 1990,

Wagner et al. 1985). The Northwestern Hawaiian Islands have undergone

similar alteration, but to a lesser degree. The primary threats facing

the 14 plant taxa included in this rule are destruction and

modification of habitat by feral animals and competition with alien

plants (see Factor E).

Thirteen of the 14 taxa in this rule are threatened by feral

animals. Animals such as pigs, goats, axis deer, black-tailed deer, and

cattle were introduced either by the early Hawaiians (pigs) or more

recently by European settlers (all ungulate species) for food and/or

commercial ranching activities

d

modification of habitat by feral animals and competition with alien

plants (see Factor E).

Thirteen of the 14 taxa in this rule are threatened by feral

animals. Animals such as pigs, goats, axis deer, black-tailed deer, and

cattle were introduced either by the early Hawaiians (pigs) or more

recently by European settlers (all ungulate species) for food and/or

commercial ranching activities. Over the 200 years following their

introduction, their numbers increased and the adverse impacts of feral

ungulates on native vegetation have become increasingly apparent.

Beyond the direct effect of trampling and grazing native plants, feral

ungulates have contributed significantly to the heavy erosion still

taking place on most of the main Hawaiian islands (Cuddihy and Stone

1990).

Pigs, originally native to Europe, Africa, and Asia, were

introduced to Hawaii by the Polynesian ancestors of Hawaiians, and

later by western immigrants. The pigs escaped domestication and invaded

primarily wet and mesic forests of Kauai, Oahu, Molokai, Maui, and

Hawaii. Pigs pose an immediate threat to one or more

populations of 11 of the proposed taxa in wet and mesic habitats. While

foraging, pigs root and trample the forest floor, encouraging the

establishment of alien plants in the newly disturbed soil. Pigs also

disseminate alien plant seeds through their feces and on their bodies,

accelerating the spread of alien plants through native forests (Cuddihy

and Stone 1990, Stone 1985). Pigs are vectors of Psidium cattleianum

(strawberry guava) and Schinus terebinthifolius (Christmas berry),

which threaten several of the proposed taxa (Cuddihy and Stone 1990,

Smith 1985, Stone 1985). Pigs have also invaded open bogs where they

uproot native plants and create conditions that allow alien plant

species to invade (Gagne and Cuddihy 1990). Sanicula purpurea and the

Alakai Swamp population of Platanthera holochila are currently

threatened by pigs in bogs (HHP 1994k4, 1994k8, 1994L9)

,

which threaten several of the proposed taxa (Cuddihy and Stone 1990,

Smith 1985, Stone 1985). Pigs have also invaded open bogs where they

uproot native plants and create conditions that allow alien plant

species to invade (Gagne and Cuddihy 1990). Sanicula purpurea and the

Alakai Swamp population of Platanthera holochila are currently

threatened by pigs in bogs (HHP 1994k4, 1994k8, 1994L9). On Kauai, one

population of Isodendrion laurifolium and two populations of

Isodendrion longifolium have sustained loss of individual plants and/or

habitat as a result of feral pig activities (HHP 1994h21, 1994i13,

1994i15; Lorence and Flynn 1993). The following proposed plant taxa on

Oahu are threatened by pigs--three populations of Cenchrus

agrimonioides, two of Cyanea grimesiana ssp. grimesiana, two of

Euphorbia haeleeleana, three of Isodendrion laurifolium, one of

Isodendrion longifolium, the two remaining populations of Phyllostegia

parviflora, one population of Sanicula purpurea, three of Schiedea

hookeri, both populations of Schiedea kauaiensis, and one of Schiedea

nuttallii (HHP 1994d8, 1994d11, 1994d12, 1994e1, 1994e34, 1994g10,

1994g13, 1994h16, 1994h18, 1994h20, 1994i2, 1994L1, 1994m5, 1994m12,

1994m13, 1994n2, 1994n18, 1994y1, 1994z1; HPCC 1992c2). On Maui, feral

pigs are a threat to the largest population of Cyanea grimesiana ssp.

grimesiana, the Waikamoi and Kapunakea Preserves populations of

Platanthera holochila, and the Eke Crater population of Sanicula

purpurea (HHP 1994k12, 1994k17, 1994l9; A. Medeiros, pers. comm. 1994).

Goats, native to the Middle East and India, were first successfully

introduced to the Hawaiian Islands in 1792. Feral goats now occupy a

wide variety of habitats from lowland dry forests to montane grasslands

on Kauai, Oahu, Molokai, Maui, and Hawaii, where they consume native

vegetation, trample roots and seedlings, accelerate erosion, and

promote the invasion of alien plants (Scott et al. 1986, Stone 1985,

van Riper and van Riper 1982)

e first successfully

introduced to the Hawaiian Islands in 1792. Feral goats now occupy a

wide variety of habitats from lowland dry forests to montane grasslands

on Kauai, Oahu, Molokai, Maui, and Hawaii, where they consume native

vegetation, trample roots and seedlings, accelerate erosion, and

promote the invasion of alien plants (Scott et al. 1986, Stone 1985,

van Riper and van Riper 1982). One or more populations of eight of the

proposed taxa are currently threatened by direct damage from feral

goats. On Kauai, goats are contributing to the decline of one

population each of Isodendrion laurifolium and Isodendrion longifolium

and four populations of Euphorbia haeleeleana. Goats threaten the two

known populations of Schiedea kauaiensis and the one population of

Schiedea nuttallii on Kauai (HHP 1989b, 1994g1, 1994g4, 1994g12,

1994g14, 1994h21, 1994i5; HPCC 1992c2). On Oahu, encroaching

urbanization and hunting pressure tend to concentrate the goat

populations in the dry upper slopes of the Waianae Mountains, where one

population of Euphorbia haeleeleana, three populations of Isodendrion

laurifolium, and two populations of Schiedea hookeri exist (HHP

1994g13, 1994h16, 1994h18, 1994h20, 1994m13, 1994m15). The goat

population in the Waianae area is apparently increasing in State game

management areas and extending into adjacent areas, becoming an even

greater threat to the rare plants that grow there. On Kukuinui Ridge,

Molokai, goats threaten one of that island's two known populations of

Cyanea grimesiana ssp. grimesiana (HHP 1994e7). On Maui, goats pose a

potential threat to that island's only known population of Cenchrus

agrimonioides (R. Hobdy, pers. comm. 1994). On Hawaii, the only known

population of Achyranthes mutica is presently threatened by goats (HPCC

1992a).

In 1920, a group of 12 axis deer was introduced to the island of

Lanai; about 60 years later, the population was estimated at 2,800

(Tomich 1986)

994e7). On Maui, goats pose a

potential threat to that island's only known population of Cenchrus

agrimonioides (R. Hobdy, pers. comm. 1994). On Hawaii, the only known

population of Achyranthes mutica is presently threatened by goats (HPCC

1992a).

In 1920, a group of 12 axis deer was introduced to the island of

Lanai; about 60 years later, the population was estimated at 2,800

(Tomich 1986). The axis deer population is presently actively managed

for recreational hunting by the State Department of Land and Natural

Resources. Axis deer degrade habitat by trampling and overgrazing

vegetation, which removes ground cover and exposes the soil to erosion

(J. Lau, pers. comm. 1994). Extensive red erosional scars caused by

decades of deer activity are evident on Lanai. Activity of axis deer

threatens one of the two populations of Cyanea grimesiana ssp.

grimesiana on Lanai (HHP 1994e37).

Black-tailed deer were first introduced to Kauai in 1961 for the

purpose of sport hunting and today probably number well over 500

animals. The deer are presently confined to the western side of the

island, where they feed on a variety of native and alien plants (van

Riper and van Riper 1982). Black-tailed deer threaten two populations

of Euphorbia haeleeleana, including almost half of the known

individuals on Kauai, and half of the known populations of Isodendrion

laurifolium on Kauai. Black-tailed deer also threaten other rare plants

within Kuia NAR, potentially threatening one population of Schiedea

kauaiensis (HHP 1994g1, 1994g7, 1994h6, 1994h9, 1994h11, 1994n18).

Large-scale ranching of cattle in the Hawaiian Islands began in the

middle of the 19th century on the islands of Kauai, Oahu, Maui, and

Hawaii. Large ranches tens of thousands of acres in size developed on

East Maui and Hawaii (Cuddihy and Stone 1990) where most of the State's

large ranches still exist today. Degradation of native forests used for

ranching activities became evident soon after full-scale ranching

began

tle in the Hawaiian Islands began in the

middle of the 19th century on the islands of Kauai, Oahu, Maui, and

Hawaii. Large ranches tens of thousands of acres in size developed on

East Maui and Hawaii (Cuddihy and Stone 1990) where most of the State's

large ranches still exist today. Degradation of native forests used for

ranching activities became evident soon after full-scale ranching

began. The negative impact of cattle on Hawaii's ecosystems is similar

to that described for goats and deer (Cuddihy and Stone 1990, Stone

1985). On Maui, cattle ranching is the primary agricultural activity on

the west and southwest slopes of East Maui and in lowland regions of

West Maui. On West Maui, the Hanaula population of Platanthera

holochila is threatened by grazing cattle (HHP 1994k9). Cattle pose a

potential threat to that island's only known population of Cenchrus

agrimonioides (R. Hobdy, pers. comm. 1994). The only known population

of Achyranthes mutica, in the Keawewai Stream area on the island of

Hawaii, is also threatened by cattle ranching activities (HPCC 1992a).

On Oahu, habitat disturbance caused by human activities may pose a

threat to rare plant populations that grow on lands on which military

training exercises and ground maneuvers are occasionally conducted.

However, because most of the proposed taxa grow on moderate to steep

slopes, ridges, and gulches, habitat disturbance is probably restricted

to foot and helicopter traffic. Trampling by ground troops associated

with training activities, and construction, maintenance, and

utilization of helicopter landing and drop-off sites could affect

populations of seven of the proposed taxa (Cenchrus agrimonioides,

Cyanea grimesiana ssp. grimesiana, Euphorbia haeleeleana, Isodendrion

laurifolium, Sanicula purpurea, Schiedea hookeri, and Schiedea

nuttallii) that occur on land leased or owned by the Army (HHP 1994d11,

1994e34, 1994g5, 1994g6, 1994g10, 1994h17, 1994L1, 1994m8, 1994m12,

1994n14; Wagner et al. 1985).

p-off sites could affect

populations of seven of the proposed taxa (Cenchrus agrimonioides,

Cyanea grimesiana ssp. grimesiana, Euphorbia haeleeleana, Isodendrion

laurifolium, Sanicula purpurea, Schiedea hookeri, and Schiedea

nuttallii) that occur on land leased or owned by the Army (HHP 1994d11,

1994e34, 1994g5, 1994g6, 1994g10, 1994h17, 1994L1, 1994m8, 1994m12,

1994n14; Wagner et al. 1985).

B. Overutilization for commercial, recreational, scientific, or

educational purposes

Unrestricted collecting for scientific or horticultural purposes or

excessive

visits by individuals interested in seeing rare plants could result

from increased publicity. This is a potential threat to all of the

proposed taxa, but would seriously impact the nine taxa whose low

numbers and/or few populations make them especially vulnerable to

disturbance (Achyranthes mutica, Cenchrus agrimonioides, Cyperus

trachysanthos, Panicum niihauense, Phyllostegia parviflora, Platanthera

holochila, Sanicula purpurea, Schiedea kauaiensis, and Schiedea

nuttallii). Such disturbances could also promote erosion and greater

ingression of alien plant species. Some taxa, such as Cenchrus

agrimonioides, Cyanea grimesiana ssp. grimesiana, Isodendrion

longifolium, Panicum niihauense, and Platanthera holochila, have well-

known populations, or populations close to trails or roads, that are

possibly threatened by trampling or by overcollection (HHP 1994d1,

1994e1, 1994i2, 1994k9). One individual of Platanthera holochila died

in the late 1980s after a portion of the plant was collected for

scientific purposes (Marie Bruegmann, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service,

in litt. 1994).

C. Disease and predation

, have well-

known populations, or populations close to trails or roads, that are

possibly threatened by trampling or by overcollection (HHP 1994d1,

1994e1, 1994i2, 1994k9). One individual of Platanthera holochila died

in the late 1980s after a portion of the plant was collected for

scientific purposes (Marie Bruegmann, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service,

in litt. 1994).

C. Disease and predation

Disease is not known to be a significant threat to any of the

proposed taxa. Evidence of predation on Isodendrion laurifolium by deer

is documented on Kauai (HHP 1994h6, 1994h11). While there is no

evidence of predation on the other 13 taxa, none of them are known to

be unpalatable to cattle, deer, or goats. Predation is therefore a

possible threat to taxa growing at sites where those animals have been

reported (Achyranthes mutica, Cyanea grimesiana ssp. grimesiana,

Euphorbia haeleeleana, Isodendrion laurifolium, Isodendrion

longifolium, Platanthera holochila, Schiedea hookeri, and Schiedea

kauaiensis) (see Factor A). Feral pigs not only destroy native

vegetation through their rooting activities and dispersal of alien

plant seeds, but they also feed on plants, preferring the pithy

interior of large tree ferns and fleshy-stemmed plants from the

bellflower family (Stone 1985, Stone and Loope 1987). Although there is

no conclusive evidence of predation on Cyanea grimesiana ssp.

grimesiana, a member of the bellflower family, it is not known to be

unpalatable to pigs. Predation is therefore a possible threat to this

taxon in areas where pigs have been reported (HHP 1994e1, 1994e34).

Two rat species, the black rat (Rattus rattus) and the Polynesian

rat (Rattus exulans), and to a lesser extent other introduced rodents,

eat large, fleshy fruits and strip the bark of some native plants,

including plants in the bellflower family (Cuddihy and Stone 1990,

Tomich 1986, Wagner et al. 1985; J. Lau, pers. comm. 1994)

xon in areas where pigs have been reported (HHP 1994e1, 1994e34).

Two rat species, the black rat (Rattus rattus) and the Polynesian

rat (Rattus exulans), and to a lesser extent other introduced rodents,

eat large, fleshy fruits and strip the bark of some native plants,

including plants in the bellflower family (Cuddihy and Stone 1990,

Tomich 1986, Wagner et al. 1985; J. Lau, pers. comm. 1994). The largest

population of Euphorbia haeleeleana on Oahu is seriously threatened by

rat predation (HHP 1994g5). It is possible that rats eat the fruits of

Cyanea grimesiana ssp. grimesiana, which produces fleshy fruit and

stems and grows in areas where rats occur (J. Lau, pers. comm. 1994).

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 * * *'' (HRS, sect. 195D-4(a)). Therefore, Federal listing

would automatically invoke listing under Hawaii State law. State law

prohibits cutting, collecting, uprooting, destroying, injuring, or

possessing any listed species of plant on State or private land, or

attempting to engage in any such conduct. The State law encourages

conservation of such species by State agencies and triggers other State

regulations to protect the species (HRS, sect. 195AD-4 and 5). However,

the regulations are difficult to enforce because of limited personnel.

Of the 14 proposed taxa, 10 have populations located on private land,

12 on State land, 3 on City and County of Honolulu land, and 9 on land

under Federal jurisdiction. Of those under Federal jurisdiction, four

taxa have populations that occur on land owned by the Federal

government and six on land leased to the Federal government by the

State

fficult to enforce because of limited personnel.

Of the 14 proposed taxa, 10 have populations located on private land,

12 on State land, 3 on City and County of Honolulu land, and 9 on land

under Federal jurisdiction. Of those under Federal jurisdiction, four

taxa have populations that occur on land owned by the Federal

government and six on land leased to the Federal government by the

State. While 12 of the taxa occur in more than 1 of those 4 ownership

categories, Achyranthes mutica is known only on private land and

Panicum niihauense is found only on State land.

Eight of the proposed taxa have one or more populations in State

NARs, where rules and regulations for the protection of resources apply

(Hawaii Revised Statutes (HRS), sect. 195-5). The majority of the

populations of the 14 proposed taxa are 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 are regarded as necessary for the protection of endemic

biological resources, and maintenance or enhancement of the

conservation of natural resources. Activities permitted in conservation

districts are chosen by considering how best to make multiple use of

the land (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 both Federal and

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)

fications 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 a conservation district, an environmental assessment

is required to determine whether 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, would also invoke State

regulations protecting the plants.

E. Other natural or manmade factors affecting its continued existence

All 14 of the taxa proposed for listing are threatened by

competition with one or more alien plant taxa (see Table 2). The most

significant of these are Lantana camara (lantana), Psidium cattleianum

(strawberry guava), Schinus terebinthifolius (Christmas berry), Rubus

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

robusta (silk oak), Melinis minutiflora (molasses grass), Paspalum

conjugatum (Hilo grass), Psidium guajava (common guava), Ageratina

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

number of other alien plant taxa also pose significant threats to

populations of the proposed plants

mas berry), Rubus

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

robusta (silk oak), Melinis minutiflora (molasses grass), Paspalum

conjugatum (Hilo grass), Psidium guajava (common guava), Ageratina

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

number of other alien plant taxa also pose significant threats to

populations of the proposed plants.

Lantana camara (lantana), native to the West Indies, is an

aggressive, thicket-forming shrub that produces chemicals that inhibit

the growth of

other plant species. Lantana can now be found on all of the main

islands in mesic forests, dry shrublands, and other dry, disturbed

habitats (Cuddihy and Stone 1990, Smith 1985, Wagner et al. 1990). On

Kauai, lantana poses a threat to two populations of Euphorbia

haeleeleana and one population of Isodendrion laurifolium within Kuia

NAR, three other populations of Euphorbia haeleeleana, three other

populations of Isodendrion laurifolium, and one population of

Isodendrion longifolium. In the Waianae Mountains of Oahu, one

population each of Cenchrus agrimonioides and Cyanea grimesiana ssp.

grimesiana and three populations of Schiedea hookeri are immediately

threatened by this shrub (HHP 1994d8, 1994e34, 1994g1, 1994g3, 1994g7,

1994g14, 1994h9, 1994h11, 1994h15, 1994h21, 1994m13, 1994m15, 1994m17;

HPCC 1993b; Lorence and Flynn 1993).

Psidium cattleianum (strawberry guava), an invasive shrub or small

tree native to tropical America, has become widely naturalized on all

of the main Hawaiian islands, forming dense stands that exclude other

plant species in disturbed areas (Cuddihy and Stone 1990). This alien

plant grows primarily in mesic and wet habitats and is dispersed mainly

by feral pigs and fruit-eating birds (Smith 1985, Wagner et al. 1990)

rawberry guava), an invasive shrub or small

tree native to tropical America, has become widely naturalized on all

of the main Hawaiian islands, forming dense stands that exclude other

plant species in disturbed areas (Cuddihy and Stone 1990). This alien

plant grows primarily in mesic and wet habitats and is dispersed mainly

by feral pigs and fruit-eating birds (Smith 1985, Wagner et al. 1990).

Strawberry guava is considered to be one of the greatest alien plant

threats to Hawaiian rain forests and is known to pose a direct threat

to at least one population each of Euphorbia haeleeleana and

Isodendrion laurifolium and four populations of Isodendrion longifolium

on the island of Kauai (HHP 1994g7, 1994h11, 1994i15, 1994i16; Lorence

and Flynn 1991, 1993). Strawberry guava is a major invader of forests

in the Waianae and Koolau Mountains of Oahu, where it often forms

single-species stands. It poses an immediate threat to two populations

each of Cenchrus agrimonioides and Isodendrion laurifolium and one

population each of Cyanea grimesiana ssp. grimesiana, Euphorbia

haeleeleana, Isodendrion laurifolium, Isodendrion longifolium, and

Schiedea hookeri (HHP 1994d8, 1994d12, 1994e34, 1994g13, 1994h18,

1994h20, 1994i2, 1994m12). On Lanai, this invasive alien plant

threatens one of that island's populations of Cyanea grimesiana ssp.

grimesiana (HHP 1994e37).

Schinus terebinthifolius (Christmas berry), introduced to Hawaii

before 1911, is a fast-growing tree or shrub invading most mesic to wet

lowland areas of the major Hawaiian Islands (Wagner et al. 1990).

Christmas berry is distributed mainly by feral pigs and fruit-eating

birds and forms dense thickets that shade out and displace other plants

(Cuddihy and Stone 1990, Smith 1985, Stone 1985). It is a major

component of the mesic forests of the Waianae and Koolau Mountains of

Oahu

growing tree or shrub invading most mesic to wet

lowland areas of the major Hawaiian Islands (Wagner et al. 1990).

Christmas berry is distributed mainly by feral pigs and fruit-eating

birds and forms dense thickets that shade out and displace other plants

(Cuddihy and Stone 1990, Smith 1985, Stone 1985). It is a major

component of the mesic forests of the Waianae and Koolau Mountains of

Oahu. Two-thirds of the Cenchrus agrimonioides populations, one-third

of the Isodendrion laurifolium populations, 1 of 2 known populations of

Phyllostegia parviflora, and 6 of 11 populations of Schiedea hookeri

are negatively affected by this invasive plant (HHP 1994d8, 1994d11,

1994d12, 1994d14, 1994h2, 1994h16, 1994h18, 1994h20, 1994m5, 1994m11,

1994m15 to 1994m17; 1994y1).

Rubus rosifolius (thimbleberry), native to Asia, is naturalized in

disturbed mesic to wet forest on all of the main Hawaiian Islands

(Cuddihy and Stone 1990). On Kauai, this shrub poses a threat to the

largest population of Euphorbia haeleeleana, two populations of

Isodendrion laurifolium, five populations of Isodendrion longifolium,

and one population of Schiedea kauaiensis (HHP 1994g1, 1994h9, 1994h11,

1994i13, 1994i15 to 1994i17; HPCC 1992c2; Lorence and Flynn 1993). One

of the two populations of Cyanea grimesiana ssp. grimesiana on Lanai is

threatened by thimbleberry (HHP 1994e37).

Clidemia hirta (Koster's curse), a noxious shrub native to tropical

America, is found in mesic to wet forests on at least six islands in

Hawaii (Almeda 1990, Hawaii Department of Agriculture 1981, Smith

1992). Koster's curse was first reported on Oahu in 1941 and had spread

through much of the Koolau Mountains by the early 1960s. Koster's curse

spread to the Waianae Mountains around 1970 and is now widespread

throughout the southern half of that mountain range. This noxious plant

forms a dense understory, shading out other plants and hindering plant

regeneration (Cuddihy and Stone 1990)

ith

1992). Koster's curse was first reported on Oahu in 1941 and had spread

through much of the Koolau Mountains by the early 1960s. Koster's curse

spread to the Waianae Mountains around 1970 and is now widespread

throughout the southern half of that mountain range. This noxious plant

forms a dense understory, shading out other plants and hindering plant

regeneration (Cuddihy and Stone 1990). In the Waianae Mountains of

Oahu, Koster's curse poses a serious threat to two populations of

Cyanea grimesiana ssp. grimesiana, one population of Isodendrion

longifolium, the largest population of Phyllostegia parviflora, and one

of the largest populations of Schiedea hookeri. Koster's curse also

threatens one population of Isodendrion laurifolium in Oahu's Koolau

Mountains. This prolific alien plant has recently spread to five other

islands, and immediately threatens two populations of Isodendrion

longifolium in Waioli Valley on Kauai, and one of the two populations

of Cyanea grimesiana ssp. grimesiana on Molokai (HHP 1994e7, 1994e34,

1994h17, 1994i2, 1994i17, 1994m11, 1994z1; Lorence and Flynn 1993; H.

Bornhorst and S. Perlman, pers. comms. 1992).

Grevillea robusta (silk oak), native to Queensland and New South

Wales, Australia, was extensively planted in Hawaii for timber and is

now naturalized on most of the main Hawaiian Islands (Smith 1985,

Wagner et al. 1990). On Kauai, this alien tree threatens Euphorbia

haeleeleana in Hipalau Valley. In the Waianae Mountains of Oahu, silk

oak negatively affects one population each of Cenchrus agrimonioides,

Euphorbia haeleeleana, Isodendrion laurifolium, Schiedea hookeri, and

Schiedea nuttallii (HHP 1994d8, 1994g14, 1994h16, 1994m13, 1994n2).

First introduced to the Hawaiian Islands as cattle fodder, Melinis

minutiflora (molasses grass) was later planted for erosion control

(Cuddihy and Stone 1990). This alien grass quickly spread to dry and

mesic forests previously disturbed by ungulates

ides,

Euphorbia haeleeleana, Isodendrion laurifolium, Schiedea hookeri, and

Schiedea nuttallii (HHP 1994d8, 1994g14, 1994h16, 1994m13, 1994n2).

First introduced to the Hawaiian Islands as cattle fodder, Melinis

minutiflora (molasses grass) was later planted for erosion control

(Cuddihy and Stone 1990). This alien grass quickly spread to dry and

mesic forests previously disturbed by ungulates. Molasses grass

produces a dense mat capable of smothering plants, essentially

preventing seedling growth and native plant reproduction (Cuddihy and

Stone 1990, Smith 1985). Because it burns readily and often grows at

the border of forests, molasses grass tends to carry fire into areas

with woody native plants (Cuddihy and Stone 1990, Smith 1985). It is

able to spread prolifically after a fire and effectively out-compete

less fire-adapted native plant species, ultimately creating a stand of

alien grass where forest once stood. In the Waianae Mountains on Oahu,

molasses grass is a serious threat to one population each of Cenchrus

agrimonioides and Euphorbia haeleeleana and two populations of Schiedea

hookeri (HHP 1994d11, 1994g10, 1994m8, 1994m11).

Paspalum conjugatum (Hilo grass) is naturalized in moist to wet

disturbed areas on all of the main Hawaiian Islands except Niihau and

Kahoolawe, and produces a dense ground cover. On Kauai, this perennial

grass threatens the Wahiawa Mountains and Waioli Valley populations of

Isodendrion longifolium (HHP 1994i15, 1994i17; Lorence and Flynn 1991,

1993). In the Waianae Mountains of Oahu, Hilo grass threatens one

population of Cenchrus agrimonioides and the largest population of

Schiedea hookeri (HHP 1994d11, 1994m13; Lorence and Flynn 1993). In

Maui's Kipahulu Valley, this grass threatens the largest known

population of Cyanea grimesiana ssp. grimesiana (A. Medeiros, pers.

comm. 1994).

Psidium guajava (common guava), a shrub or small tree native to the

New

untains of Oahu, Hilo grass threatens one

population of Cenchrus agrimonioides and the largest population of

Schiedea hookeri (HHP 1994d11, 1994m13; Lorence and Flynn 1993). In

Maui's Kipahulu Valley, this grass threatens the largest known

population of Cyanea grimesiana ssp. grimesiana (A. Medeiros, pers.

comm. 1994).

Psidium guajava (common guava), a shrub or small tree native to the

New

World tropics, is naturalized on all of the main islands, except

perhaps Niihau and Kahoolawe (Wagner et al. 1990). Common guava is a

serious weed that invades disturbed sites, forming dense thickets in

dry as well as mesic and wet forests (Smith 1985, Wagner et al. 1990).

On Kauai, common guava poses a threat to a population of Isodendrion

longifolium in Waioli Valley (Lorence and Flynn 1993). In the Waianae

Mountains of Oahu, this alien plant threatens the largest populations

of Schiedea hookeri and Schiedea nuttallii, while on the island of

Hawaii, common guava threatens the only known population of Achyranthes

mutica (HHP 1994m13, 1994n2; HPCC 1992a).

Ageratina adenophora (Maui pamakani) and Ageratina riparia (Hamakua

pamakani), both native to tropical America, have naturalized in dry

areas to wet forest on Oahu, Molokai, Lanai, Maui, and Hawaii (Wagner

et al. 1990). These two noxious weeds form dense mats with other alien

plants and prevent regeneration of native plants (Anderson et al.

1992). In the Waianae Mountains of Oahu, two populations of Schiedea

hookeri are threatened by both Maui pamakani and Hamakua pamakani, and

the largest population of Phyllostegia parviflora is threatened by Maui

pamakani (HHP 1994m16, 1994m17, 1994y1). On Hawaii, the only known

population of Achyranthes mutica is threatened by Hamakua pamakani

(HPCC 1992a).

Rubus argutus (Prickly Florida blackberry) was introduced to the

Hawaiian Islands in the late 1800s from the continental U.S. (Haselwood

and Motter 1983)

makua pamakani, and

the largest population of Phyllostegia parviflora is threatened by Maui

pamakani (HHP 1994m16, 1994m17, 1994y1). On Hawaii, the only known

population of Achyranthes mutica is threatened by Hamakua pamakani

(HPCC 1992a).

Rubus argutus (Prickly Florida blackberry) was introduced to the

Hawaiian Islands in the late 1800s from the continental U.S. (Haselwood

and Motter 1983). The fruits are easily spread by birds to open areas

such as disturbed mesic or wet forests, where the species forms dense,

impenetrable thickets (Smith 1985). The largest population of Cenchrus

agrimonioides on Oahu is threatened by prickly Florida blackberry, as

well as other alien plant taxa (HHP 1994d8). Leucaena leucocephala (koa

haole) is a naturalized shrub which is sometimes the dominant species

in low elevation, dry, disturbed areas on all of the main Hawaiian

islands (Geesnick et al. 1990). On Kauai, the only known population of

Panicum niihauense is threatened by several alien plants, including koa

haole (HHP 1994j3, HPCC 1992b). Oahu's only known population of Cyperus

trachysanthos is threatened by alien grasses and possibly by koa haole

(HHP 1994f1; J. Lau, pers. comm. 1994). Prosopis pallida (kiawe) was

introduced to Honolulu from a single seed grown on the Catholic Mission

Grounds in 1828. In the early part of this century, pods were collected

and sold to ranchers for cattle ration. The seeds pass through the

digestive system of cattle and spread rapidly throughout the drier

habitats of the Hawaiian islands (Geesnick et al. 1990). The only known

population of Panicum niihauense is threatened by kiawe (HHP 1994j3,

HPCC 1992b). Recently introduced to Hawaii, Cyathea cooperi (Australian

tree fern) is being promoted for commercial propagation in Hawaii to

decrease exploitation of native tree ferns. Australian tree fern has

recently become established on the island of Maui, and seriously

threatens the largest known population of Cyanea grimesiana ssp

f Panicum niihauense is threatened by kiawe (HHP 1994j3,

HPCC 1992b). Recently introduced to Hawaii, Cyathea cooperi (Australian

tree fern) is being promoted for commercial propagation in Hawaii to

decrease exploitation of native tree ferns. Australian tree fern has

recently become established on the island of Maui, and seriously

threatens the largest known population of Cyanea grimesiana ssp.

grimesiana (Cuddihy and Stone 1990; A. Medeiros, pers. comm. 1994).

Pennisetum clandestinum (Kikuyu grass), an aggressive, perennial

grass introduced to Hawaii as a pasture grass, withstands trampling and

grazing and is naturalized on four Hawaiian Islands in dry to mesic

forest. It produces thick mats which choke out other plants and prevent

their seedlings from establishing and has been declared a noxious weed

by the U.S. Department of Agriculture (7 CFR 360) (O'Connor 1990, Smith

1985). Kikuyu grass is a threat to the only known population of

Achyranthes mutica (HPCC 1992a). The introduced fern Blechnum

occidentale was noted by Dr. Clifford Smith of the University of Hawaii

as a potential pest in 1985 (Cuddihy and Stone 1990, Smith 1985). Found

in mesic forests, Blechnum occidentale is a threat to one population of

Schiedea kauaiensis (HHP 1994n18). Conyza bonariensis (hairy horseweed)

is nearly cosmopolitan in distribution, although it is perhaps native

to South America. It was naturalized in Hawaii prior to 1871 and is a

common weed in various urban and non-urban areas throughout Hawaii,

generally in dry habitats. It threatens the only known population of

Achyranthes mutica (HPCC 1992a, Wagner et al. 1990). Opuntia ficus-

indica (panini) was introduced to Hawaii prior to 1809 from Mexico and

has become naturalized in dry, disturbed habitats on Kauai, Oahu, Maui,

Kahoolawe, and Hawaii. Panini threatens the only known population of

Achyranthes mutica (HPCC 1992a, Wagner et al. 1990)

rally in dry habitats. It threatens the only known population of

Achyranthes mutica (HPCC 1992a, Wagner et al. 1990). Opuntia ficus-

indica (panini) was introduced to Hawaii prior to 1809 from Mexico and

has become naturalized in dry, disturbed habitats on Kauai, Oahu, Maui,

Kahoolawe, and Hawaii. Panini threatens the only known population of

Achyranthes mutica (HPCC 1992a, Wagner et al. 1990). Axonopus

fissifolius (narrow-leaved carpet grass) is native to subtropical North

America and the New World tropics. Introduced to Hawaii in 1912,

narrow-leaved carpet grass has become common in wet pastures, disturbed

wet forest, and bogs on Kauai, Oahu, Lanai, Maui, and Hawaii. Narrow-

leaved carpet grass is a threat to one population of Sanicula purpurea

on Oahu (HHP 1994L1, O'Connor 1990). 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). Air

plant threatens one population of Schiedea kauaiensis (HPCC 1992c2).

Fire poses a potential threat to populations of six of the proposed

taxa--Cenchrus agrimonioides, Cyanea grimesiana ssp. grimesiana,

Euphorbia haeleeleana, Isodendrion longifolium, Schiedea hookeri, and

Schiedea nuttallii (HHP 1994e1, 1994e34, 1994g5, 1994g6, 1994g10,

1994i2, 1994m8, 1994m12, 1994m15 to 1994m17). Because Hawaii's native

plants have evolved with only infrequent, naturally occurring episodes

of fire (lava flows, infrequent lightning strikes), most species are

not adapted to fire and are unable to recover well after recurring

fires. Alien plants are often more fire-adapted than native taxa and

quickly exploit suitable habitat after a fire (Cuddihy and Stone 1990)

12, 1994m15 to 1994m17). Because Hawaii's native

plants have evolved with only infrequent, naturally occurring episodes

of fire (lava flows, infrequent lightning strikes), most species are

not adapted to fire and are unable to recover well after recurring

fires. Alien plants are often more fire-adapted than native taxa and

quickly exploit suitable habitat after a fire (Cuddihy and Stone 1990).

On Oahu, unintentionally ignited fires have resulted from military

training exercises in Makua Military Reservation and Schofield Barracks

Military Reservation and pose a possible threat to populations of

Cenchrus agrimonioides, Euphorbia haeleeleana, and Schiedea nuttallii

that grow in dry and mesic forest on those installations (Environment

Impact Study Corp. 1977; HHP 1994a, 1994b, 1994d11, 1994g5, 1994g6,

1994g10, 1994n14; Yoshioka et al. 1991). Accidentally or maliciously

set fires in residential areas near the Lualualei Naval Magazine and

the Makua Military Reservation could easily spread and pose a possible

threat to one of the four populations of Cenchrus agrimonioides, most

of the island's individuals of Euphorbia haeleeleana, one population of

Isodendrion longifolium, several populations of Schiedea hookeri, and

one population of Schiedea nuttallii (HHP 1994d11, 1994g5, 1994g6,

1994g10, 1994i2, 1994m8, 1994m15 to 1994m17, 1994n14).

Erosion, landslides, and rockslides 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 found on cliffs and steep slopes that have limited numbers

and/or narrow ranges such as the Oahu populations of Cyanea grimesiana

ssp. grimesiana, the Pahole-Makua Ridge population of Schiedea

nuttallii on Oahu, and the Kalalau Valley population of Schiedea

kauaiensis on Kauai (HHP 1994n2; HPCC 1992c2; L. Mehrhoff, pers. comm.

1995).

lly affects the continued existence of taxa or

populations found on cliffs and steep slopes that have limited numbers

and/or narrow ranges such as the Oahu populations of Cyanea grimesiana

ssp. grimesiana, the Pahole-Makua Ridge population of Schiedea

nuttallii on Oahu, and the Kalalau Valley population of Schiedea

kauaiensis on Kauai (HHP 1994n2; HPCC 1992c2; L. Mehrhoff, pers. comm.

1995).

The small number of populations and individuals of many of these

taxa increases the potential for extinction from naturally occurring

events. The small 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 extant

population. Two of the proposed plant taxa, Achyranthes mutica and

Panicum niihauense, are each known from a single population. Five

additional proposed taxa have 5 or fewer populations (Cyperus

trachysanthos, Phyllostegia parviflora, Platanthera holochila, Sanicula

purpurea, and Schiedea kauaiensis), and 7 of the taxa are estimated to

number no more than 100 individuals (Achyranthes mutica, Cenchrus

agrimonioides, Panicum niihauense, Phyllostegia parviflora, Platanthera

holochila, Schiedea kauaiensis, and Schiedea nuttallii). All of the

proposed taxa either number fewer than 20 populations or total fewer

than 1,000 individuals (see Table 2).

The Service has carefully assessed the best scientific and

commercial information available regarding the past, present, and

future threats faced by these taxa in determining to propose this rule.

Based on this evaluation, the preferred action is to propose listing 13

of these plant taxa as endangered (Achyranthes mutica, Cenchrus

agrimonioides, Cyanea grimesiana ssp

dividuals (see Table 2).

The Service has carefully assessed the best scientific and

commercial information available regarding the past, present, and

future threats faced by these taxa in determining to propose this rule.

Based on this evaluation, the preferred action is to propose listing 13

of these plant taxa as endangered (Achyranthes mutica, Cenchrus

agrimonioides, Cyanea grimesiana ssp. grimesiana, Cyperus

trachysanthos, Euphorbia haeleeleana, Isodendrion laurifolium, Panicum

niihauense, Phyllostegia parviflora, Platanthera holochila, Sanicula

purpurea, Schiedea hookeri, Schiedea kauaiensis, and Schiedea

nuttallii) and Isodendrion longifolium as threatened. The 13 taxa

proposed as endangered are threatened by one or more of the following--

habitat degradation and/or predation by pigs, goats, deer, cattle, and

rats; competition for space, light, water, and nutrients from alien

plants; habitat loss from fires; human impacts from military training

practices and recreational activities; and substrate loss. Seven of the

proposed taxa have 5 or fewer populations, and 7 of the taxa are

estimated to number no more than 100 individuals. Small population size

and limited distribution make these taxa particularly vulnerable to

extinction from reduced reproductive vigor or from naturally occurring

events. Because these 13 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. Therefore, the determination of

endangered status for these 13 taxa is warranted.

Although populations of Isodendrion longifolium are threatened by

habitat degradation and/or destruction by goats and pigs and

competition with six alien plant species, the larger distribution of

populations and total numbers of plants reduce the likelihood that this

species will become extinct in the near future

erefore, the determination of

endangered status for these 13 taxa is warranted.

Although populations of Isodendrion longifolium are threatened by

habitat degradation and/or destruction by goats and pigs and

competition with six alien plant species, the larger distribution of

populations and total numbers of plants reduce the likelihood that this

species will become extinct in the near future. For these reasons,

Isodendrion longifolium is not now in immediate danger of extinction

throughout all or a significant portion of its range. However,

Isodendrion longifolium is likely to become endangered in the

foreseeable future if the threats affecting it are not curbed. As a

result, Isodendrion longifolium is proposed to be listed as a

threatened species.

Critical habitat is not being proposed for the 14 taxa included in

this rule for reasons discussed in the ``Critical Habitat'' section of

this proposal.

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 propose critical habitat at the time a

species is determined to be endangered or threatened. The Service finds

that designation of critical habitat is not prudent for the 14 taxa

proposed in this rule

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 propose critical habitat at the time a

species is determined to be endangered or threatened. The Service finds

that designation of critical habitat is not prudent for the 14 taxa

proposed in this rule. 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, these taxa are threatened by

overcollection, due to low numbers or population size. The publication

of precise maps and descriptions of critical habitat in the Federal

Register and local newspapers as required in a proposal for critical

habitat would increase the degree of threat to these plants from take

or vandalism and, therefore, could contribute to their decline. The

listing of these taxa publicizes the rarity of the plants and, thus,

can make these plants attractive to researchers, 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. Additional protection of the

habitat of these taxa will be addressed through the recovery process

and through the section 7 consultation process. The Service finds that

designation of critical habitat for these 14 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.

Available Conservation Measures

ill be addressed through the recovery process

and through the section 7 consultation process. The Service finds that

designation of critical habitat for these 14 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.

Available Conservation Measures

Conservation measures provided to species listed as endangered or

threatened under the Act include recognition, recovery actions,

requirements for Federal protection, and prohibitions against certain

activities. Recognition through listing can encourage and result in

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 protection required of

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 proposed or

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)(4) requires Federal agencies to confer with the

Service on any action that is likely to jeopardize the continued

existence of a species proposed for listing or result in destruction or

adverse modification of proposed critical habitat. If a species is

listed subsequently, section 7(a)(2) requires Federal agencies to

ensure that activities they authorize, fund, or carry out are not

likely to jeopardize the continued existence of a listed species or to

destroy or adversely modify its critical habitat. If a Federal action

may

proposed for listing or result in destruction or

adverse modification of proposed critical habitat. If a species is

listed subsequently, section 7(a)(2) requires Federal agencies to

ensure that activities they authorize, fund, or carry out are not

likely to jeopardize the continued existence of a listed 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 formal consultation with the Service.

Nine of the endangered taxa occur on land under Federal

jurisdiction, including the following agencies--U.S. Army, U.S. Navy,

and National Park Service. Of those, four taxa are found on federally

owned land and six taxa occur on land leased by the Federal government

from the State. Activities carried out by the U.S. Army include

ordnance training practices, ground troop training activities, and

construction, maintenance, and utilization of helicopter landing and

drop-off sites. The Army is coordinating with TNCH to develop

management plans for Schofield Barracks Military Reservation, Kawailoa

Training Area, and Makua Military Reservation to limit the impact of

these activities on endangered species and their habitats. The Navy is

in the process of developing a management plan for Lualualei Naval

Magazine. The National Park Service actively monitors and manages rare

and endangered species populations within Haleakala National Park.

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 14 proposed taxa in this rule,

all prohibitions of section 9(a)(2) of the Act, implemented by 50 CFR

17.61 for endangered plants and 17.71 for threatened plants, would

apply

ecies populations within Haleakala National Park.

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 14 proposed taxa in this rule,

all prohibitions of section 9(a)(2) of the Act, implemented by 50 CFR

17.61 for endangered plants and 17.71 for threatened plants, would

apply. These prohibitions, in part, make it illegal for any person

subject to the jurisdiction of the United States to import or export

any endangered plant species; transport such species in interstate or

foreign commerce in the course of a commercial activity, sell or offer

for sale such a species in interstate or foreign commerce; remove and

reduce such a species to possession from areas under Federal

jurisdiction; maliciously damage or destroy any such species from areas

under Federal jurisdiction; or remove, cut, dig up, or damage or

destroy any such species in knowing violation of any State law or

regulation, including 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 Isodendrion

longifolium 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

mits 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 permits would be sought or

issued because these 14 taxa are not common in cultivation or in the

wild.

It is the policy of the Service (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. Such information is intended to clarify the potential

impacts of a species' listing on proposed and ongoing activities within

the species' range. Nine of the proposed taxa occur on Federal lands

under the jurisdiction of the U.S. Army, U.S. Navy, or National Park

Service. Collection, damage, or destruction of these taxa on Federal

lands is prohibited without a Federal endangered species permit. Such

activities on non-Federal lands would constitute a violation of section

9 if conducted in knowing violation of Hawaii State law or regulations

or in violation of State criminal trespass law. The Service is not

aware of any trade in these species.

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 Branch, 911 N.E. 11th Avenue, Portland, Oregon 97232-4181

(telephone: 503/231-6241; facsimile: 503/231-6243).

Public Comments Solicited

e is not

aware of any trade in these species.

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 Branch, 911 N.E. 11th Avenue, Portland, Oregon 97232-4181

(telephone: 503/231-6241; facsimile: 503/231-6243).

Public Comments Solicited

The Service intends that any final action resulting from this

proposal will be as accurate and as effective as possible. Therefore,

comments or suggestions from the public, other concerned governmental

agencies, the scientific community, industry, or any other interested

party concerning this proposed rule are hereby solicited. Comments

particularly are sought concerning:

(1) Biological, commercial trade, or other relevant data concerning

any threat (or lack thereof) to the 14 taxa;

(2) The location of any additional populations of these taxa and

the reasons why any habitat should or should not be determined to be

critical habitat as provided by section 4 of the Act;

(3) Additional information concerning the range, distribution, and

population size of these taxa; and

(4) Current or planned activities in the subject area and their

possible impacts on these taxa.

The final decision on this proposal will take into consideration

the comments and any additional information received by the Service,

and such communications may lead to a final regulation that differs

from this proposal.

The Endangered Species Act provides for one or more public hearings

on this proposal, if requested. Requests must be received within 45

days of the date of publication of the proposal in the Federal

Register. Such requests must be made in writing and addressed to the

Ecoregion Manager (see ADDRESSES section).

National Environmental Policy Act

inal regulation that differs

from this proposal.

The Endangered Species Act provides for one or more public hearings

on this proposal, if requested. Requests must be received within 45

days of the date of publication of the proposal in the Federal

Register. Such requests must be made in writing and addressed to the

Ecoregion Manager (see ADDRESSES section).

National Environmental Policy Act

The Service has determined that Environmental Assessments or

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).

References Cited

A complete list of all references cited herein is available upon

request from the Pacific Islands Ecoregion (see ADDRESSES section).

Author

The primary author of this proposed rule is Marie M. Bruegmann,

Pacific Islands Ecoregion Office (see ADDRESSES section). Substantial

data were contributed by the Hawaii Heritage Program.

List of Subjects in 50 CFR Part 17

Endangered and threatened species, Exports, Imports, Reporting and

recordkeeping requirements, and Transportation.

Proposed Regulation Promulgation

Accordingly, the Service hereby proposes to amend 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.

* * * * *

art 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 name Status When Critical Special

Scientific name Common name listed habitat rules

----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Flowering Plants

Achyranthes mutica None............. U.S.A. (HI)..... Amaranthaceae.... E ...... NA NA

* * * * * *

*

Cenchrus Kamanomano....... U.S.A. (HI)..... Poaceae.......... E ...... NA NA

agrimonioides.

* * * * * *

*

Cyanea grimesiana Haha............. U.S.A. (HI)..... Campanulaceae.... E ...... NA NA

ssp. grimesiana.

* * * * * *

*

Cyperus Pu'uka'a......... U.S.A. (HI)..... Cyperaceae....... E ...... NA NA

trachysanthos.

* * * * * *

*

Euphorbia 'Akoko........... U.S.A. (HI)..... Euphorbiaceae.... E ...... NA NA

haeleeleana.

* * * * * *

*

Isodendrion Aupaka........... U.S.A. (HI)..... Violaceae........ E ...... NA NA

laurifolium.

* * * * * *

*

Isodendrion Aupaka........... U.S.A. (HI)..... Violaceae........ T ...... NA NA

longifolium.

* * * * * *

*

Panicum niihauense Lau 'ehu......... U.S.A. (HI)..... Poaceae.......... E ...... NA NA

* * * * * *

*

Phyllostegia None............. U.S.A. (HI)..... Lamiaceae........ E ...... NA NA

parviflora.

* * * * * *

*

Platanthera None............. U.S.A. (HI)..... Orchidaceae...... E ...... NA NA

holochila.

* * * * * *

*

Sanicula purpurea. None............. U.S.A. (HI)..... Apiaceae......... E .....

ense Lau 'ehu......... U.S.A. (HI)..... Poaceae.......... E ...... NA NA

* * * * * *

*

Phyllostegia None............. U.S.A. (HI)..... Lamiaceae........ E ...... NA NA

parviflora.

* * * * * *

*

Platanthera None............. U.S.A. (HI)..... Orchidaceae...... E ...... NA NA

holochila.

* * * * * *

*

Sanicula purpurea. None............. U.S.A. (HI)..... Apiaceae......... E ...... NA NA

* * * * * *

*

Schiedea hookeri.. None............. U.S.A. (HI)..... Caryophyllaceae.. E ...... NA NA

* * * * * *

*

Schiedea None............. U.S.A. (HI)..... Caryophyllaceae.. E ...... NA NA

kauaiensis.

* * * * * *

*

Schiedea nuttallii None............. U.S.A. (HI)..... Caryophyllaceae.. E ...... NA NA

* * * * * *

*

----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Dated: September 20, 1995.

John G. Rogers,

Acting Director, Fish and Wildlife Service.

[FR Doc. 95-24337 Filed 9-29-95; 8:45 am]

BILLING CODE 4310-55-P