Huperzia mannii
| Huperzia mannii | |
|---|---|
| Scientific classification | |
| Kingdom: | Plantae |
| Division: | Lycopodiophyta |
| Class: | Lycopodiopsida |
| Order: | Lycopodiales |
| Family: | Huperziaceae |
| Genus: | Huperzia |
| Species: | H. mannii |
| Binomial name | |
| Huperzia mannii (Hillebr.) Kartesz & Gandhi | |
Huperzia mannii is a species of lycopod plant known by the common names Mann's clubmoss and wawae`iole. It is endemic to Hawaii, where there are only six populations remaining.[1] It is a federally listed endangered species of the United States.
This plant is an epiphyte which grows upon other plants, especially koa (Acacia koa), 'olapa (Cheirodendron trigynum), and kawa'u (Ilex anomala).[2] It has a hanging, branching, reddish stem no more than 10 centimetres (3.9 in) long. Each branch has three longitudinal rows of toothlike leaves. When reproducing the plant produces a branching fruiting spike which may be up to 20 centimetres (7.9 in) long.[2]
Today the plant is known from just a few occurrences on the islands of Maui and Hawaii. It is historically known from Kauai, but it may be extirpated there.[1] Threats to its existence include damage to the habitat by feral pigs, cattle, and introduced plant species, and the fact that there are few individuals remaining.[1][2]
References
- 1 2 3 "Huperzia mannii". The Nature Conservancy.
- 1 2 3 Huperzia mannii. Hawaii's Comprehensive Wildlife Conservation Strategy.