Endangered and Threatened Wildlife and Plants; Determinations of Prudency and Designations of Critical Habitat for Plant Species From the Islands of Maui and Kahoolawe, Hawaii

AGENCY:

Fish and Wildlife Service, Interior.

ACTION:

Proposed rule and Notice of determinations of whether designation of critical habitat is prudent.

SUMMARY:

We, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, have reconsidered our findings concerning whether designating critical habitat for 38 federally protected plants from the islands of Maui and Kahoolawe, some of which may also occur on other Hawaiian Islands, listed between 1991 and 1996, would be prudent. At the time each plant was listed, we determined that designation of critical habitat was not prudent because designation would increase the degree of threat to the species and/or would not benefit the plant. We have determined that critical habitat is prudent for 37 of these species since the potential benefits of designating critical habitat essential for the conservation of these species outweigh the risks of designation that may result from human activity. We propose that designation of critical habitat is not prudent for one species, which is no longer extant in the wild and for which no genetic material is currently extant, because such designation would not be beneficial to this species.

We propose critical habitat designations for a total of 50 species in 52 units on Maui and 4 units on Kahoolawe at this time. The approximate land area within these units totals 13,574 hectares (33,614 acres) on Maui and 207 hectares (512 acres) on Kahoolawe. This proposed rule includes proposed designations for 33 of the 37 species mentioned above. Critical habitat is not proposed for four species that are currently only found in areas on Maui that are permanently protected and managed. In addition, critical habitat is being proposed for six other species from Maui and Kahoolawe that were listed in 1999. We are also proposing critical habitat on Maui and Kahoolawe for 11 species which also occur on Kauai.

We solicit data and comments from the public on all aspects of this proposal, including data on the economic and other impacts of the proposed designations. We may revise this proposal to incorporate or address new information received during the comment period.

DATES:

We must receive comments from all interested parties by February 16, 2001. Public hearing requests must be received by February 1, 2001.

ADDRESSES:

If you wish to comment, you may submit your comments and materials concerning this proposal by any one of several methods:

You may submit written comments and information to the Field Supervisor, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, Pacific Islands Office, 300 Ala Moana Blvd., P.O. Box 50088, Honolulu, HI 96850-0001.

You may send comments by electronic mail (e-mail) to mandk_crithab_pr@fws.gov. See the Public Comments Solicited section in SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION below for file format and other information about electronic filing.

You may hand-deliver written comments to our Pacific Islands Office at 300 Ala Moana Blvd., Room 3-122, Honolulu, HI.

Comments and materials received, as well as supporting documentation used in the preparation of this proposed rule, will be available for public inspection, by appointment, during normal business hours at the Pacific Islands Office.

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT:

Paul Henson, Field Supervisor, Pacific Islands Office (see ADDRESSES section) (telephone: 808/541-3441; facsimile: 808/541-3470).

SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION:

Background

We, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (Service), have reconsidered our previous findings concerning whether designating critical habitat for some of the 69 Federally protected plants currently or historically found on the islands of Maui and Kahoolawe is prudent. Table 1 lists the species that are currently found on Maui and/or Kahoolawe, reported to occur on these islands, or were historically present (not seen for more than 30 years). Seventeen of these species (Argyroxiphium sandwicense ssp. macrocephalum, Clermontia samuelii, Cyanea copelandii ssp. haleakalaensis, Cyanea glabra, Cyanea hamatiflora ssp. hamatiflora, Cyanea mceldowneyi, Dubautia plantaginea ssp. humilis, Geranium arboreum, Geranium multiflorum, Kanaloa kahoolawensis, Lipochaeta kamolensis, Melicope adscendens, Melicope balloui, Melicope ovalis, Remya mauiensis, Schiedea haleakalensis, and Tetramolopium capillare) are endemic to the islands of Maui and/or Kahoolawe, while 33 species (Alectryon macrococcus, Bonamia menziesii, Cenchrus agrimonioides, Centaurium sebaeoides, Clermontia lindseyana, Clermontia oblongifolia ssp. mauiensis, Colubrina oppositifolia, Ctenitis squamigera, Cyanea grimesiana ssp. grimesiana, Cyrtandra munroi, Diellia erecta, Flueggea neowawraea, Hedyotis coriacea, Hedyotis mannii, Hesperomannia arborescens, Hesperomannia arbuscula, Hibiscus brackenridgei, Ischaemum byrone, Mariscus pennatiformis, Melicope knudsenii, Melicope mucronulata, Neraudia sericea, Peucedanum sandwicense, Phyllostegia mannii, Phyllostegia mollis, Plantago princeps, Platanthera holochila, Pteris lidgatei, Sanicula purpurea, Sesbania tomentosa, Spermolepis hawaiiensis, Vigna o-wahuensis, and Zanthoxylum hawaiiense) are known from Maui and/or Kahoolawe, as well as one or more other islands (Table 1). Two species, Bidens micrantha ssp. kalealaha and Cyanea lobata, were known from Maui and Lanai, but are currently only extant on Maui. Lysimachia lydgatei was known from Maui and Oahu, while Diplazium molokaiense was known from several islands, but currently both species are extant only on Maui. We believe that one species, Acaena exigua, may be extinct. The fourteen remaining species are known only from historical records (pre-1970) on Maui and/or Kahoolawe or from undocumented observations. While these species do occur on other islands, we do not believe they still occur on Maui or Kahoolawe.

When 38 of the above species where listed between 1991 and 1996 (Acaena exigua, Argyroxiphium sandwicense ssp. macrocephalum, Bidens micrantha ssp. kalealaha, Cenchrus agrimonioides, Clermontia lindseyana, Clermontia oblongifolia ssp. mauiensis, Colubrina oppositifolia, Ctenitis squamigera, Cyanea grimesiana ssp. grimesiana, Cyanea lobata, Cyanea mceldowneyi, Cyrtandra munroi, Diellia erecta, Diplazium molokaiense, Geranium arboreum, Geranium multiflorum, Hedyotis coriacea, Hedyotis mannii, Hesperomannia arborescens, Hesperomannia arbuscula, Hibiscus brackenridgei, Ischaemum byrone, Lipochaeta kamolensis, Lysimachia lydgatei, Mariscus pennatiformis, Melicope adscendens, Melicope balloui, Melicope mucronulata, Melicope ovalis, Neraudia sericea, Phlegmariurus mannii, Phyllostegia mollis, Pteris lidgatei, Remya mauiensis, Sanicula purpurea, Schiedea haleakalensis, Tetramolopium capillare, and Vigna o-wahuensis), we determined that designation of critical habitat was not prudent because designation would increase the degree of threat to the species and/or would not benefit the plant. However, after reevaluating our previous decision, we propose that critical habitat designation for 37 of these species would be prudent because the potential benefits of designating critical habitat essential for the conservation of these species outweigh the risks, resulting from human activity, of designation (see CRITICAL HABITAT section below). We propose that designation of critical habitat is not prudent for Acaena exigua, which we believe may be extinct, because such a designation would not be beneficial to this species, since we believe the species may be extinct.

Proposed determinations for 11 species that also occur on the island of Kauai (Alectryon macrococcus, Bonamia menziesii, Centaurium sebaeoides, Flueggea neowawraea, Melicope knudsenii, Peucedanum sandwicense, Plantago princeps, Platanthera holochila, Sesbania tomentosa, Spermolepis hawaiiensis, and Zanthoxylum hawaiiense) were published in a previous proposal (65 FR 66808). In addition, the designation of critical habitat was found to be prudent for six species (Clermontia samuelii, Cyanea copelandii ssp. haleakalaensis, Cyanea glabra, Cyanea hamatiflora ssp. hamatiflora, Dubautia plantaginea ssp. humilis, and Kanaloa kahoolawensis) when they were listed as endangered in 1999.

An additional 14 species listed in Table 1 are known only from historical records (pre-1970) on Maui and/or Kahoolawe or from undocumented observations. Since these species do not currently occur on Maui or Kahoolawe, is it not prudent to designate critical habitat for them on these islands. However, proposed determinations and critical habitat designations or non-designations for these species will be included in other proposed rules for the islands on which they currently occur (Table 2).

The plants discussed in this proposed rule were listed as endangered or threatened species under the Endangered Species Act of 1973, as amended (Act), between 1991 and 1999. At the time many of these plants were listed, we determined that designation of critical habitat was not prudent because designation would increase the degree of threat to the species and/or would not benefit the plant. These not prudent determinations, along with 196 others, were challenged in Conservation Council for Hawaii v. Babbitt, 2 F. Supp. 2d 1280 (D. Hawaii). On March 9, 1998, the United States District Court for the District of Hawaii directed us to review the prudency determinations for 245 listed plant species in Hawaii. On August 10, 1998, the court ordered us to publish proposed critical habitat designations or non-designations for at least 100 species by November 30, 2000, and to publish proposed designations or non-designations for the remaining 145 species by April 30, 2002. (See 65 FR 66808 for complete discussion about the above litigation.)

In addition, a second court order (Conservation Council for Hawaii v. Babbitt, Civ. No. 99-002283 HG (D. Haw. Aug. 19, 1999, Feb. 16, 2000, and March 28, 2000)) requires that we propose critical habitat for 10 other plant species, 6 of which are addressed in this proposed rule (Clermontia samuelii, Cyanea copelandii ssp. haleakalaensis, Cyanea glabra, Cyanea hamatiflora ssp. hamatiflora, Dubautia plantaginea ssp. humilis, Kanaloa kahoolawensis) for which determination was found to be prudent at the time of listing. This second court order requires us to publish proposed critical habitat designations by November 30, 2000, and to publish final critical habitat designations by November 30, 2001.

To comply with these court orders, we plan to publish seven proposed rules, between now and April 30, 2002, in the following island groupings: Kauai and Niihau; Maui and Kahoolawe; Lanai; Molokai; Northwest Hawaiian Islands; Hawaii; and Oahu. Each notice will contain the proposed prudency determinations for species occurring on that island for which prudency determinations have not been previously proposed, and proposed designations or non-designations of critical habitat for each plant species known to occur from that island. The proposed prudency determination and proposed rule for Kauai and Niihau plants was published in the Federal Register on November 7, 2000 (65 FR 66808). When a plant species occurs on more than one island, critical habitat may be proposed in all of the proposed rules that cover the respective islands.

The Islands of Maui and Kahoolawe

Maui, the second largest island in Hawaii at 1,888 square kilometers (sq km) (729 square miles (sq mi)) in area, was formed from the remnants of two large shield volcanoes, the older west Maui volcano (1.3 million years) on the west and the larger, but much younger Haleakala volcano on the east. Stream erosion has cut deep valleys and ridges into the originally shield-shaped West Maui volcano. The highest point on West Maui is Puu Kukui at 1,764 meters (m) (5,787 feet (ft)) elevation, which has an average rainfall of 1,020 centimeters (cm) (400 inches (in.)) per year, making it the second wettest spot in Hawaii (Department of Geography 1998). Having erupted just 200 years ago, East Maui's Haleakala crater, reaching 3,055 m (10,023 ft) in elevation, has retained its classic shield shape and lacks the diverse vegetation typical of the older and more eroded West Maui mountain. Rainfall on the slopes of Haleakala is about 89 cm (35 in.) per year, with its windward (northeastern) slope receiving the most precipitation. However, Haleakala's crater is a dry cinder desert because it is below the level at which precipitation develops, and is sheltered from moisture-laden winds (Gagne and Cuddihy 1999).

The island of Kahoolawe measures about 17.7 km (11 mi) long by 11.3 km (7 mi) wide, comprising some 11,655 hectares (ha) (28,800 acres (ac)). Located in the lee of Haleakala, the island lies approximately 11 km (6.7 mi) from East Maui. The highest point is the rim of an extinct volcano at 450 m (1,477 ft) above sea level. The estimated annual precipitation is approximately 500 millimeters (mm) (20 in.), with most if it falling from November through March. In addition to the low precipitation, Kahoolawe is the windiest of the Hawaiian Islands (Gon et al. 1992).

Discussion of the Plant Taxa

Species Endemic to Maui and/or Kahoolawe

Argyroxiphium sandwicense ssp. macrocephalum

Argyroxiphium sandwicense ssp. macrocephalum, a long-lived perennial and a member of the aster family (Asteraceae), is called the Haleakala silversword. It is a distinctive, globe-shaped rosette plant with a dense covering of silver hairs. This subspecies is distinguished from Argyroxiphium sandwicense ssp. sandwicense by the shape and ratio of the dimensions of the inflorescence, the number of ray florets per head, and the combination of its longer, three-angled leaves; its silvery leaf hairs, which completely hide the leaf surface; and its longer achenes (Carr 1985, 1999a).

This monocarpic (flowers only once, at the end of its lifetime) plant matures from seed to its final stage in approximately 15-50 years (Loope and Medeiros, in press). The plant remains a compact rosette until it sends up an erect, central flowering stalk, sets seed, and dies. Flowering occurs from June to September, with annual numbers of flowering plants varying dramatically from year to year. Reliable counts of flowering plants were made in 1935 (217 flowered) and in 1941 (815 flowered) (Loope and Crivellone 1986). Numbers recorded in recent years have ranged from zero in 1970 to 6,632 in 1991. The environmental stimulus for synchronous flowering is as yet unknown. An apparent relationship of the 1991 mass flowering event to stratospheric alteration by the eruption of Pinatubo Volcano in the Philippines has been considered. Investigations are underway by R. Pharis of the University of Calgary and L.L. Loope to explore whether enhanced flowering is related to increased UV-B radiation due to temporary reduction of stratospheric ozone (United States Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS) 1997). Flying insects, especially native bees, moths, flies, bugs, and wasps, many of which are pollinators, are attracted in large numbers to the giant, aromatic inflorescences. It has been demonstrated that Argyroxiphium sandwicense ssp. macrocephalum cannot fertilize itself and is reliant on insect pollinators for reproduction. Rarely, hybrids between A. sandwicense ssp. macrocephalum and Dubautia menziesii, have been observed. Primarily found within Haleakala Crater, especially on Puu o Pele and Puu o Maui cinder cones, these hybrid individuals flower for several years before dying (Carr 1985).

Currently, Argyroxiphium sandwicense ssp. macrocephalum occupies all of its historic range, a 1,000 ha (2,500 ac) area at 2,100-3,000 m (6,890-9,840 ft) elevation in the crater and outer slopes of Haleakala Volcano, within Haleakala National Park, and The Nature Conservancy of Hawaii's (TNCH) Waikamoi Preserve (Loope and Crivellone 1986; TNC 1998). There are a total of seven populations on Federal and privately owned land, with 39,013 to 44,013 individual plants (TNCH 1998; Geographic Decision Systems International (GDSI) 2000; Hawaii Natural Heritage Program (HINHP) Database 2000).

The habitat of this species consists primarily of dry, well-drained, otherwise barren, unstable slopes of recent (less than several thousand years old) volcanic cinder cones. Mean annual precipitation is approximately 75-125 cm (29-49 in.). The substrate has almost no soil development and is subject to frequent formation of ice at night and extreme heating during cloudless days (USFWS 1997). This species is found in alpine dry shrubland with native species including: Agrostis sandwicensis (bent grass), Deschampsia nubigena (hair grass), Dubautia menziesii (na ena e), Silene struthioloides (catchfly), Styphelia tameiameiae (pukiawe), Metrosideros polymorpha (ohia), Tetramolopium humile (pamakani), and Trisetum glomeratum (pili uka) (USFWS 1997).

The threats to this species are loss of pollinators due to the Argentine ant (Iridomyrmex humilis) and alien yellowjackets (Vespula pennsylvanica); native seed-eating and herbivorous insects such as the tephritid fly (Trupanea cratericola), the larvae of a native phycitid moth (Rhynchephestia rhabdotis), and the endemic cerambycid beetle (Plagithmysus terryi); limited natural range which makes it vulnerable to extinction due to catastrophic events, such as a natural disaster; competition from the alien plant species Verbascum thapsus (mullein) and Pennisetum setaceum (fountain grass); and human impacts (trampling and site degradation). Although goats (Capra hircus) and cattle (Bos taurus) have been removed from the park, they remain a potential threat (USFWS 1997; 57 FR 20772).

Clermontia samuelii

Clermontia samuelii, a short-lived perennial in the bellflower family (Campanulaceae), is a terrestrial shrub with elliptical leaves which are sometimes broader at the tips. Clermontia samuelii ssp. hanaensis is differentiated from C. samuelii ssp. samuelii by the greenish white to white flowers; longer, narrower leaves with the broadest point near the base of the leaves; and fewer hairs on the lower surface of the leaves. This species is separated from other members of this endemic Hawaiian genus by the size of the flowers and the hypanthium (Lammers 1999).

There is very little known about the life history of this plant. Reproductive cycles, longevity, specific environmental requirements, and limiting factors are unknown (USFWS 1999).

Historically, Clermontia samuelii has been reported from Haleakala and from Keanae Valley on the windward side to Manawainui on the more leeward (southeastern) side of Haleakala (Medeiros and Loope 1989; HINHP Database 2000). Currently, C. samuelii ssp. hanaensis is known from the northeastern side of Haleakala, within Haleakala National Park, Hanawi Natural Area Reserve (NAR), and Hana Forest Reserve. There is a total of five populations with 600 individual plants on State and Federal lands (HINHP Database 2000; GDSI 2000; B. Hobdy in litt. 2000; K. Wood in litt. 2000). C. samuelii ssp. samuelii is known from three populations totaling 50 to 100 individuals on State and Federal lands within Haleakala National Park, Hanawi NAR, and the Hana and Koolau forest reserves (Warshauer 1998; USFWS 1999; GDSI 2000; HINHP Database 2000; K. Wood in litt. 2000).

Clermontia samuelii ssp. hanaensis is found between 735 and 1,060 m (2,400 and 3,475 ft) elevation, while C. samuelii ssp. samuelii is typically found between 1,725 to 2,100 m (5,660 to 6,900 ft) elevation (64 FR 48307; HINHP Database 2000; K. Wood in litt. 2000). C. samuelii ssp. hanaensis is found in wet Metrosideros polymorpha and M. polymorpha-Dicranopteris linearis (uluhe) forest with Tetraplasandra oahuensis (ohe mauka), Hedyotis terminalis (manono), Hedyotis hillebrandii (manono), Broussaisia arguta (kanawao), Cibotium sp. (hapuu), Argyroxiphium grayanum (greensword), Dubautia sp. (na ena e), Clermontia arborea (oha wai), Psychotria mariniana (kopiko), Melicope clusifolia (alani), Diplazium sandwichianum (NCN), Peperomia obovatilimba (ala ala wai nui), Adenophorus tamariscinus (pendant fern), Vaccinium sp. (ohelo), Carex alligata (NCN), Melicope sp. (alani), and Cheirodendron trigynum (olapa) (HINHP Database 2000). Clermontia samuelii ssp. samuelii is found in wet Metrosideros polymorpha and M. polymorpha-Cheirodendron trigynum forest with Hedyotis hillebrandii, Cibotium sp., Broussaisia arguta, Dubautia sp., Diplazium sandwichianum, Rubus hawaiiensis (akala), Clermontia arborescens ssp. waihiae (oha wai), Vaccinium sp., Carex alligata, and Melicope sp. (HINHP Database 2000).

Threats to Clermontia samuelii ssp. hanaensis include habitat degradation and/or destruction by feral pigs (Sus scrofa) and competition with alien plant taxa such as Tibouchina herbacea (glorybush), Paspalum urvillei (vasey grass), Paspalum conjugatum (Hilo grass), Juncus sp. (NCN), Hedychium coronarium (ginger), and Hedychium gardnerianum (64 FR 48307; K. Wood in litt. 2000). In addition, two extremely invasive alien plant taxa, Miconia calvescens (velvet tree) and Clidemia hirta (Koster's curse), are found in nearby areas and may invade this habitat if not controlled (64 FR 48307). The habitat of C. samuelii ssp. samuelii was extensively damaged by pigs in the past, and pigs are still a major threat to the populations on State owned lands. The population within the National Park has been fenced and pigs have been eradicated. However, due to the large populations of pigs in adjacent areas, the park populations must constantly be monitored to prevent further occurrence (64 FR 48307). Competition with alien plant taxa such as Holcus lanatus (velvet grass) and Juncus planifolius (NCN) is a major threat to this subspecies (K. Wood in litt. 2000). In addition, rats (mainly black rat (Rattus rattus)) and slugs (mainly Milax gagetes) are known to eat leaves, stems, and fruits of other members of this genus, and therefore are a potential threat to both subspecies (64 FR 48307).

Cyanea copelandii ssp. haleakalaensis

Cyanea copelandii ssp. haleakalaensis, a short-lived perennial member of the bellflower family (Campanulaceae), is a vine-like shrub with sprawling stems and tan latex sap. This subspecies is differentiated from the other subspecies by its shorter elliptical leaves. The species differs from others in this endemic Hawaiian genus by the vine-like stems and the yellowish flowers that appear red due to the covering of hairs (Lammers 1999).

There is very little known about the life history of this plant. Reproductive cycles, longevity, specific environmental requirements, and limiting factors are unknown.

Historically, Cyanea copelandii ssp. haleakalaensis was reported from the windward side of Haleakala and from Waikamoi to Kipahulu Valley (Lammers 1999). Currently, this taxon is known from three populations with a total of 205 individuals in Kipahulu Valley within Haleakala National Park; west of Kuhiwa Stream and Valley in Hanawi NAR; and on lower Waikamoi flume, which is privately owned (64 FR 48307; Warshauer 1998; HINHP Database 2000; GDSI 2000).

Cyanea copelandii ssp. haleakalaensis is found on stream banks and wet scree (a sloping mass of rocks at the base of a cliff) slopes in montane wet or mesic forest dominated by Acacia koa (koa) and/or Metrosideros polymorpha at elevations between 730 and 1,340 m (2,400 and 4,400 ft) (64 FR 48307; HINHP Database 2000). Associated species include Cibotium sp., Perrottetia sandwicensis (olomea), Psychotria hawaiiensis (kopiko ula), Broussaisia arguta, and Hedyotis acuminata (au) (64 FR 48307; HINHP Database 2000).

The major threats to this species are habitat degradation and/or destruction by feral pigs; competition with several alien plant taxa; rats; slugs; and potential extinction due to random environmental events due to small population sizes (64 FR 48307).

Cyanea glabra

Cyanea glabra, a member of the bellflower family (Campanulaceae), is a short-lived, perennial shrub, with the leaves of juvenile plants deeply pinnately lobed, while those of the adult plants are more or less entire and elliptical. This species is differentiated from others in this endemic Hawaiian genus by the size of the flower and the pinnately lobed juvenile leaves (Lammers 1999).

There is very little known about the life history of this plant. Reproductive cycles, longevity, specific environmental requirements, and limiting factors are unknown.

Historically, Cyanea glabra has been reported from West Maui and on Haleakala, East Maui (64 FR 48307; HINHP Database 2000). Currently, this species is known from a single population of 12 individual plants on privately owned land in Kauaula Valley (GDSI 2000; HINHP Database 2000).

Cyanea glabra is found on soil and rock stream banks in wet lowland forest dominated by Acacia koa and/or Metrosideros polymorpha, at elevations between 800 to 1,340 m (2,625 to 4,400 ft) (HINHP Database 2000).

The threats to this species are slugs; habitat degradation and/or destruction by feral pigs; flooding; competition with several alien plant taxa; rats; the two-spotted leafhopper (Saphonia rufofascia); and extinction caused by random environmental events due to the small number individuals in the only remaining population (64 FR 48307).

Cyanea hamatiflora ssp. hamatiflora

Cyanea hamatiflora ssp. hamatiflora, a short-lived perennial and member of the bellflower family (Campanulaceae), is a palm-like tree with tan colored latex. This subspecies is differentiated from the listed subspecies (C. hamatiflora ssp. carlsonii) by its longer calyx lobes and shorter individual flower stalks. This species is separated from others in this endemic Hawaiian genus by fewer flowers per inflorescence and narrower leaves (Lammers 1999).

There is very little known about the life history of this plant. Reproductive cycles, longevity, specific environmental requirements, and limiting factors are unknown.

Historically, Cyanea hamatiflora ssp. hamatiflora was known from the windward side of Haleakala, stretching from Puu o Kakae to Manawainui (HINHP Database 2000). Currently, this taxon is known from nine populations with a total of 22 individuals in Haipuaena Gulch in the Koolau Forest Reserve; along East Wailuaki Stream in the Koolau Forest Reserve; upper Kipahulu Valley in Haleakala National Park; and between Puu Ahulili and Kaupo Gap (State, Federal, and privately owned lands) (Warshauer 1998; GDSI 2000; HINHP Database 2000).

Typical habitat for this taxon is montane wet forest dominated by Metrosideros polymorpha, with a Cibotium sp. and/or native shrub understory and closed Acacia koa-M. polymorpha wet forest from 975 to 1,500 m (3,200 to 4,920 ft) elevation (HINHP Database 2000). Associated native plant taxa include Dicranopteris linearis, Cheirodendron trigynum, Broussaisia arguta, Cyanea solenocalyx (haha), Cyanea kunthiana (haha), Vaccinium sp., Melicope sp., and Myrsine sp. (kolea) (64 FR 48307; HINHP Database 2000).

The threats to this species are habitat degradation and/or destruction by feral pigs; landslides; competition with the alien plant Ageratina adenophora (Maui pamakani); rats; and slugs (64 FR 48307).

Cyanea mceldowneyi

Cyanea mceldowneyi (a member of the bellflower family (Campanulaceae)) is a short-lived, unbranched perennial shrub with rough to prickly stems. This species is distinguished from other species of Cyanea by the combination of a densely armed trunk, long (40 mm (1.6 in.)) white-colored corollas, and leaf blade size and shape (Lammers 1999).

There is very little known about the life history of this plant. Reproductive cycles, longevity, specific environmental requirements, and limiting factors are unknown (USFWS 1997).

Historically, Cyanea mceldowneyi was known from rainforest west of Waikamoi to Honomanu on northwestern Haleakala (Lammers 1999). Currently, this species is known from six populations with a total of 31 individuals, in the vicinity of Waikamoi Drainage on East Maui, on or near State and privately owned lands (Warshauer 1998; GDSI 2000; HINHP Database 2000).

The habitat of this species is montane wet forest with mixed Metrosideros polymorpha-Acacia koa at elevations between 925 and 1,280 m (3,030 and 4,200 ft) (Lammers 1999; HINHP Database 2000). Associated native plants include Melicope clusiifolia (kolokolo mokihana), Hedyotis sp. (NCN), Clermontia arborescens, Diplazium sandwichianum, Broussaisia arguta, Cibotium sp., Cyrtandra sp. (haiwale), Dicranopteris linearis, and Cheirodendron trigynum (57 FR 20772).

The threats to this species are habitat degradation and physical destruction by feral pigs; small number of populations and individuals (57 FR 20772); and competition with alien plant species, especially Setaria palmifolia (palmgrass) (USFWS 1997).

Dubautia plantaginea ssp. humilis

Dubautia plantaginea ssp. humilis, a short-lived perennial of the aster family (Asteraceae), is a dwarf shrub less than 80 cm (30 in.) tall with hairless or strigullose (bulbous-based hairs, all pointing in the same direction) stems. This species differs from other Hawaiian members of the genus by the number of nerves in the leaves and by the close resemblance of the leaves to the genus Plantago (Carr 1985, 1999b). The subspecies humilis differs from the other two subspecies (D. plantaginea ssp. magnifolia and Dubautia plantaginea ssp. plantaginea) by having fewer heads per inflorescence, but more florets per head (Carr 1999b).

There is very little known about the life history of this plant. Reproductive cycles, longevity, specific environmental requirements, and limiting factors are unknown.

Dubautia plantaginea ssp. humilis has only been reported from two locations in Iao Valley, on West Maui. These populations, totaling 60-65 individuals, are on or near State and privately owned lands (GDSI 2000; HINHP Database 2000).

The typical habitat of the species is wet, barren, steep, rocky, wind-blown cliffs between 350 to 400 m (1,150 to 1,300 ft) elevation. Associated native plant taxa include Metrosideros polymorpha, Pipturus albidus (mamaki), Eragrostis variabilis (kawelu), Carex sp. (NCN), Hedyotis formosa (NCN), Lysimachia remyi (kolokolo kuahiwi), Bidens sp. (kookoolau), Pritchardia sp. (loulu), and Plantago princeps (64 FR 48307; HINHP Database 2000).

Threats to Dubautia plantaginea ssp. humilis include landslides and competition from alien plant taxa (64 FR 48307). Random environmental events, such as landslides, are a threat because of the limited number of individuals and populations and their narrow distribution.

Geranium arboreum

Geranium arboreum, a long-lived perennial and a member of the geranium family (Geraniaceae). It is a many branched, spreading, woody shrub about 1.8 to 3.7 m (6 to 12 ft) tall. This species can be distinguished from other Geranium by its red petals with the upper three petals erect and the lower two reflexed, causing the flower to appear curved (Wagner et al. 1999).

Geranium arboreum is the only species in its genus that appears to be adapted to bird-pollination (Funk 1982, 1988). Native honeycreepers appear to be a major pollination vector. G. arboreum from the southwest area of Haleakala in the Kula Forest Reserve produce seeds that are larger and fuller than seeds from the northwest extension of its distribution (USFWS 1997). Native honeycreepers are reasonably abundant in both areas (USFWS 1997).

The original range and abundance of the species is unknown, but late 19th and early 20th century collections indicate that it once grew on the southern slopes of Haleakala and that its distribution on the northern slopes extended beyond its presently known range. There are ten populations totaling 142 to147 individuals, on State, private, and federally owned lands (Warshauer 1998; GDSI 2000; HINHP Database 2000). These populations are found in Waiohuli; west side of Puu Nianiau; west side of Puu Koolau; Waiakoa and Kealahou; Hapapa Gulch; Kaonoulu; southeast and southwest side of Puu Keokea; and Papaanui (Warshauer 1998; HINHP Database 2000).

Geranium arboreum grows in steep, damp, and shaded narrow canyons and gulches, steep banks, and along intermittent streams in Sophora chrysophylla (mamane) subalpine dry shrubland and Metrosideros polymorpha montane forest, between 1,525 to 2,135 m (5,000 and 7,000 ft) in elevation. Associated native plant species include Vaccinium reticulatum (ohelo ai), Dodonaea viscosa (aalii), Styphelia tameiameiae, Rubus hawaiiensis, and Dryopteris wallichiana (NCN) (USFWS 1997).

The greatest immediate threat to the survival of this species is the encroachment and competition from naturalized, exotic vegetation, chiefly grasses and trees. Soil disturbance, caused by trampling cattle and rooting by feral pigs, also is a major threat as it destroys plants and facilitates the encroachment of competing species of naturalized plants. Other less important threats include browsing by cattle; fires; and pollen from exotic pine trees, which at times of the year completely cover the stigmas of the geraniums, precluding any fertilization by its own species (Funk 1982, 1988). The small number of individual plants increases the potential for extinction from random environmental events, and the limited gene pool may depress reproductive vigor (57 FR 20580; USFWS 1997).

Geranium multiflorum

Geranium multiflorum, a long-lived member of the geranium family (Geraniaceae). This perennial is a 1 to 3 m (3 to 10 ft) tall, many-branched shrub. Flowers are in clusters of 25 to 50, and have 5 white petals that are 10 to 15 mm (0.4 to 0.6 in.) long with purple veins or bases. This species is distinguished from others of the genus by its white, regularly symmetrical flowers and by the shape and pattern of teeth on its leaf margins (57 FR 20772; Wagner et al. 1999).

There is very little known about the life history of this plant. Reproductive cycles, longevity, specific environmental requirements, and limiting factors are unknown (USFWS 1997).

Historically, Geranium multiflorum was known from Ukulele, Waieleele, and Waianapanapa on East Maui (HINHP Database 2000). This species is now known from Haleakala National Park, Hanawi NAR, Koolau Forest Reserve, and Waikamoi Preserve on Federal, State, and private lands (Warshauer 1998; GDSI 2000; HINHP Database 2000). The nine known populations extend over a distance of about 10.5 by 5.5 km (6.5 by 3.5 mi). Due to the inaccessibility of the populations and the difficulty in determining the number of individuals (due to the plant's multi-branched form), the total number of individuals of this species is not known; however, it probably does not exceed 3,000 plants (57 FR 20772; HINHP Database 2000).

Geranium multiflorum is found in wet or mesic Metrosideros polymorpha montane forest and alpine mesic forest, Styphelia tameiameiae shrubland, Sophora chrysophylla subalpine dry forest, open sedge swamps, fog-swept lava flows, or montane grasslands, between 1,580 and 2,450 m (5,180 and 8,040 ft) in elevation (Wagner et al. 1999; HINHP Database 2000). Associated native species include Coprosma montana (pilo), Dryopteris glabra (hohui), Dryopteris wallichiana, Rubus hawaiiensis, Ranunculus sp. (makou), Vaccinium sp., Hedyotis sp., and Sadleria cyatheoides (amau) (HINHP Database 2000).

The major threat to Geranium multiflorum is competition with encroaching alien plant species, particularly Rubus argutus (prickly Florida blackberry) (57 FR 20772). A potential threat is habitat destruction by feral pigs and goats in unfenced areas.

Kanaloa kahoolawensis

Kanaloa kahoolawensis, a short-lived perennial and a member of the legume family (Fabaceae), is a densely branched shrub 0.75 to 1 m (2.5 to 3.5 ft) tall. The leaves are divided into three pairs of leaflets, with a leaf nectary (nectar-bearing gland) at the joint between each pair of leaflets. One to three inflorescences are found in the leaf axils (joint between leaf and stem), developing with the flush of new leaves. The inflorescence is a globose head with 20 to 54 white flowers. Up to four fruits develop in each flowering head. One slender, brown seed, about 2 mm (0.08 in.) long, is found in each fruit. There is no other species of legume in Hawaii that bears any resemblance to this species or genus (Lorence and Wood 1994).

Additional information on the life history of this plant, reproductive cycles, longevity, specific environmental requirements, and limiting factors is generally unknown (64 FR 48307).

Kanaloa kahoolawensis was unknown to science until its discovery by Steve Perlman and Ken Wood in 1992 on a steep rocky spire on the coast of Kahoolawe. The only known location of Kanaloa kahoolawensis is this rocky stack on the southern coast of the island of Kahoolawe, which is owned by the State of Hawaii (Lorence and Wood 1994). While there are no previous records of the plant, pollen core studies on the island of Oahu revealed a legume pollen that could not be identified until this species was discovered. The pollen cores indicate that K. kahoolawensis was a codominant with Dodonaea viscosa and Pritchardia sp. from before 1210 B.C. to 1565 A.D., at which point K. kahoolawensis disappeared from the pollen record and D. viscosa and Pritchardia sp. declined dramatically (Athens et al. 1992; Athens and Ward 1993; Lorence and Wood 1994). Only one population with two living individuals is known (Paul Higashino, Kahoolawe Island Reserve Commission (KIRC), pers. comm. 2000).

The only known habitat is mixed coastal shrubland on steep rocky talus slopes at 45 to 60 m (150 to 200 ft) elevation. Associated native plant taxa include Sida fallax (ilima), Senna gaudichaudii (kolomona), Bidens mauiensis (kookoolau), Lipochaeta livarum (nehe), Portulaca molokinensis (ihi), and Capparis sandwichiana (maia pilo) (64 FR 48307).

The major threats to Kanaloa kahoolawensis are landslides and the alien plant taxa Emilia fosbergii (pualele), Chloris barbata (swollen finger grass), and Nicotiana glauca (tobacco tree) (Lorence and Wood 1994). Goats played a major role in the destruction of vegetation on Kahoolawe before they were removed (Cuddihy and Stone 1990), and K. kahoolawensis probably survived only because the rocky stack is almost completely separated from the island and inaccessible to goats (Lorence and Wood 1994). Rats are a potential threat to Kanaloa kahoolawensis, because the species has seeds similar in appearance and presentation to the seeds of the federally endangered Caesalpinia kavaiense (Uhiuhi), which are eaten by rats. Rats may have been the cause of the decline of this species 800 years ago. Trampling and habitat degradation from cats and seabirds are also potential threats (P. Higashino, pers. comm. 2000). Random environmental events and/or reduced reproductive vigor are also a threat to this species, because only two individuals are known (64 FR 48307).

Lipochaeta kamolensis

Lipochaeta kamolensis, a short-lived perennial herb of the aster family (Asteraceae), has trailing or climbing stems that are woody at the base and reach a length of 0.3 to 3 m (1 to 10 ft). This species is distinguished from others of the genus by the simple leaves which are pinnately lobed or cut and by the size of the flower heads (Wagner et al. 1999).

Lipochaeta kamolensis has been observed flowering from December through February, as well as in April. The growing season coincides with the wet season between November and April/May. Plants are dry and appear to be metabolically inactive during the dry season. Additional information on the life history of this plant, reproductive cycles, longevity, specific environmental requirements, and limiting factors is generally unknown (USFWS 1997).

Historically, Lipochaeta kamolensis was known from Kamole Gulch, west of Kepuni Gulch, and 7.2 km (11.8 mi) southeast of Ulupalakua Ranch Office (Wagner et al. 1999). This species still occurs in the Kamole Gulch, as well as Kepuni Gulch, both above and below Highway 31 on State-owned and private lands. The only known population, which extends over an area of about 40 ha (100 ac), is estimated to contain less than 500 individuals (GDSI 2000, HINHP Database 2000; Kenneth Wood, National Tropical Botanical Garden (NTBG) in litt. 1999).

Lipochaeta kamolensis typically grows along the bottom of rock ledges in dry to mesic scrub or dry lowland forests at elevations from 220 to 250 m (720 to 820 ft) (Wagner et al. 1999). Associated vegetation includes Dodonaea viscosa, Plumbago zeylanica (iliee), and Ipomoea indica (koali awa) (K. Wood, in litt. 1999).

The major threats to Lipochaeta kamolensis are habitat destruction and predation by cattle and goats, competition with alien plants such as Lantana camara, fire, and the small number of populations subject to extinction by random environmental events (57 FR 20772; USFWS 1997).

Melicope adscendens

Melicope adscendens, a long-lived perennial of the citrus family (Rutaceae), is a sprawling shrub with long, slender branches covered with gray hairs when young, which become hairless when older. M. adscendens is distinguished from other species of the genus by its growth habit, the distinct follicles of its fruit, and the persistent (remaining attached) sepals and petals (Stone et al. 1999).

Melicope adscendens fruits have been collected in March and July. Additional information on the life history of this plant, reproductive cycles, longevity, specific environmental requirements, and limiting factors is generally unknown (USFWS 1997).

Melicope adscendens has been found only on the southwestern slope of Haleakala; two plants, separated by an unspecified distance, were found by Forbes in 1920. Today, there are a total of three known populations on State and private lands: one of the original plants persists near Puu Ouli on privately owned land, 26 individuals are known from Auwahi, and one individual has been found in the Kanaio NAR (GDSI 2000, HINHP Database 2000).

This species typically grows at elevations between 770 and 1,220 m (2,520 and 4,000 ft) in Nestegis sandwicensis (olopua) lowland mesic forest or open dry forest on a‘a lava flows (a particular type of lava flow with very sharp edges) with pockets of soil. Associated native plant species include: Pleomele auwahiensis (hala pepe), Dodonaea viscosa, Osteomeles anthyllidifolia (ulei), Alphitonia ponderosa (kauila), Chamaesyce celastroides var. lorifolia (akoko), Santalum ellipticum (iliahialo e), Pouteria sandwicensis (alaa), Styphelia tameiameiae and Xylosma hawaiiensis (maua) (HINHP Database 2000, K. Wood, in litt. 1999).

Major threats are habitat damage and trampling by cattle, competition with alien plant species, including Lantana camara, Bocconia frutescens (NCN), and Pennisetum clandestinum, and reduced reproductive vigor or extinction from random environmental events due to the small number of individuals and narrow distribution. Potential threats include habitat degradation and damage to plants by axis deer (Axis axis), feral goats, feral pigs, black twig borer, fire, and ranch activities (59 FR 62346; USFWS 1997; HINHP Database 2000).

Melicope balloui

Melicope balloui, a long-lived perennial of the citrus family (Rutaceae), is a small tree or shrub. New growth has yellowish brown woolly hairs and waxy scales; plant parts later become nearly hairless. M. balloui is distinguished from other species of the genus by the partially fused carpels of its four-lobed capsule and usually persistent sepals and petals (Stone et al. 1999).

Additional information on the life history of this plant, reproductive cycles, longevity, specific environmental requirements, and limiting factors is generally unknown (USFWS 1997).

Melicope balloui has been found only on the northern and southeastern slopes of Haleakala. There are two known populations, located approximately 4.0 km (2.5 mi) apart; one near Puu o Kakae on privately owned land and the second on federally owned land in Kipahulu Valley within Haleakala National Park. The two populations are comprised of approximately 50 individuals (GDSI 2000; HINHP Database 2000; K. Wood, in litt. 1999).

This species typically grows in Acacia koa and Metrosideros polymorpha dominated montane wet forest at elevations between 760 and 1,520 m (2,500 and 5,000 ft). Associated taxa include Machaerina angustifolia (uki), Cheirodendron trigynum, Labordia hedyosmifolia (kamakahala), Coprosma sp. (pilo), Dicranopteris linearis, Joinvillea ascendens ssp. ascendens (ohe), and Peperomia subpetiolata (ala ala wai nui) (HINHP Database 2000, USFWS 2000).

Major threats are habitat degradation and damage to plants by feral pigs and axis deer and reduced reproductive vigor or extinction caused by random environmental events due to the small number of existing populations and individuals. Potential threats include competition with alien plant taxa, such as Paspalum conjugatum, Clidemia hirta, Paspalum urvillei, Andropogon virginicus (broomsedge), and Psidium cattleianum (strawberry guava); susceptibility to black twig borer; and predation by rats (59 FR 62346; USFWS 1997; HINHP Database 2000).

Melicope ovalis

Melicope ovalis, a long-lived perennial of the citrus family (Rutaceae), is a tree growing up to 5 m (16 ft) tall. New growth has fine, short, brownish hairs, but soon becomes hairless. Leaves are opposite, leathery, and broadly elliptic. The upper and lower surfaces of the leaves are hairless, and bruised foliage has an anise odor similar to that of M. anisata. Each flower cluster is on a main stalk and comprises three to seven flowers on individual stalks. Further details of the flowers are unknown. The fruit, a capsule, has carpels that are fused along almost their entire length. Each fertile carpel contains one or two glossy black seeds. The exocarp and endocarp are both hairless. M. ovalis is distinguished from other species of the genus by the almost entirely fused carpels of its capsule, its nonpersistent sepals and petals, and its well-developed petioles (Stone et al. 1999).

Additional information on the life history of this plant, reproductive cycles, longevity, specific environmental requirements, and limiting factors is generally unknown (USFWS 1997).

Melicope ovalis has been found only on the eastern and southeastern slopes of Haleakala. There is one known population with less than 300 individuals, found on federally owned land in Kipahulu Valley in Haleakala National Park (GDSI 2000; HINHP Database 2000; K. Wood, in litt. 1999).

This species typically grows in Acacia koa and Metrosideros polymorpha-dominated montane wet forests along streams at elevations between 850 and 1,430 m (2,800 and 4,700 ft). Associated taxa include Dicranopteris linearis, Machaerina angustifolia, Labordia hedyosmifolia, Wikstroemia oahuensis (akia), Dubautia plantaginea, Hedyotis hillebrandii, Broussaisia arguta, Cheirodendron trigynum, and Perrottetia sandwicensis (USFWS 1997; HINHP Database 2000).

Major threats to the only known population are habitat degradation and damage to plants by feral pigs and reduced reproductive vigor and/or extinction due to random environmental events. Competition with introduced plants such as Paspalum conjugatum, Clidemia hirta, Rubus rosifolius (thimbleberry) and Psidium cattleianum, seed predation by rats, and susceptibility to black twig borer are also threats to this species (59 FR 62346; USFWS 1997; HINHP 2000; K. Wood in litt. 1999). Habitat degradation and damage to plants by feral goats and axis deer are potential threats if the integrity of the fence currently surrounding the population is compromised.

Remya mauiensis

Remya mauiensis is a short-lived perennial member of the aster family (Asteraceae). The genus Remya is endemic to the Hawaiian Islands. It is a small perennial shrub, about 90 cm (3 ft) tall, with many slender, sprawling, or scandent to weakly erect branches, covered with a fine tan fuzz near their tips. The leaves are narrow, up to about 15 cm (6 in.) long, and are bunched at the ends of the branches. The coarsely toothed leaf blade is 5 to 12 times longer than wide, has a long-attenuate base, and a petiole of less than 1 cm (0.4 in.) long. The leaves are green on the upper surface and covered with a dense mat of fine white hairs on the lower surface. The flowers are small, about 0.7 cm (0.3 in.) in diameter, dark yellow, and densely clustered at the ends of their stems (Wagner et al. 1999).

Additional information on the life history of this plant, reproductive cycles, longevity, specific environmental requirements, and limiting factors is generally unknown (USFWS 1997).

Remya mauiensis was collected twice by William Hillebrand on West Maui between 1851 and 1871, and again in 1920 by Charles Forbes, also on West Maui. It was thought to be extinct until its rediscovery in 1971 by L.E. Bishop, W. Gagne, and S. Montgomery on the slopes of Manawainui Gulch, West Maui. Currently, R. mauiensis is known from three small populations on adjacent ridges on State-owned land in West Maui: Manawainui, Papaalua Gulch, and Ukemehame (GDSI 2000). Because of the sprawling habit of this species, and the often dense growth of the surrounding vegetation, it is difficult to determine the exact number of individuals in a population; however, there is an estimate of 26 individuals (HINHP Database 2000).

Remya mauiensis grows chiefly on steep, north or northeast-facing slopes between 850 to 1,250 m (2,800 to 4,100 ft) in elevation, primarily in mixed mesophytic forests, Metrosideros polymorpha montane wet forest, or the remnants of such forests. Associated species include: Diospyros sandwicensis (lama), Xylosma hawaiiensis, Nestegis sandwicensis, Myrsine lessertiana (kolea lau nui), Wikstroemia sp. (akia), Dodonaea viscosa, Diplazium sandwichianum, Lysimachia remyi, Microlepia strigosa (palapalai), Melicope sp., Alyxia oliviformis (maile), Psychotria mariniana, Ctenitis squamigera, Pleomele auwahiensis, and Styphelia tameiameiae (HINHP Database 2000, USFWS 1997).

This species is threatened by extinction due to random catastrophic environmental events by virtue of the extremely small size of the populations coupled with a limited distribution of the remaining populations. The limited gene pool may depress reproductive vigor, or a single environmental disturbance could destroy a significant percentage of the known individuals. However, the primary threat to this species is the loss and degradation of its habitat due to the introduction of alien plants, such as Rubus rosifolius and Tibouchina herbacea, and feral pigs (56 FR 1450; USFWS 1997).

Schiedea haleakalensis

Schiedea haleakalensis, a short-lived perennial of the pink family (Caryophyllaceae), is a hairless shrub, with slightly fleshy, narrow leaves and a single vein. Flowers are arranged in clusters at the ends of the branches. The flower has 5 green, oval sepals; no petals; 5 nectaries; and 10 stamens. Capsules contain grayish to reddish brown seeds. This species differs from other species of the genus on East Maui by its crowded, hairless inflorescence composed of bisexual flowers (Wagner et al. 1999).

Schiedea haleakalensis is gynodioecious (individuals either have only female flowers or only perfect flowers) and so likely needs cross pollination by small insects. Small, short-flighted flies and moths have been observed visiting flowers. Fruits and seeds have been observed from August through September. Additional information on the life history of this plant, reproductive cycles, longevity, specific environmental requirements, and limiting factors is generally unknown (USFWS 1997).

Due to the lack of early collections or sightings, the historical range of Schiedea haleakalensis is unknown. This species is known only from Holua and the west side of Kaupo Gap in the federally owned Haleakala National Park (GDSI 2000; HINHP Database 2000). The two populations are estimated to contain a total of 100 to 200 individuals, which together extend over a total area of 11 ha (28 ac) (HINHP Database 2000).

Schiedea haleakalensis typically grows on sheer, north-facing arid subalpine cliffs at elevations of 1,830 to 2,140 m (6,000 to 7,020 ft) (Wagner et al. 1999). Associated vegetation includes Artemisia mauiensis (hinahina), Bidens micrantha (NCN), Dubautia sp., and Viola chamissoniana (pamakani) (USFWS 1997; HINHP Database 2000).

The greatest threats to Schiedea haleakalensis are fire and other catastrophic events that could severely impact the species due the small number and restricted distribution of remaining individuals and populations (57 FR 20772; USFWS 1997).

Tetramolopium capillare

Tetramolopium capillare, a short-lived perennial of the sunflower family (Asteraceae), is a sprawling shrub with stems measuring 50 to 80 cm (20 to 31 in.) long and covered with many glands when young. The very firm, stalkless leaves are involute (edges rolled under). Flower heads are situated singly at the ends of stalks. Located beneath each flower head are 45 to 50 bracts, arranged in a structure 3 to 4 mm (about 0.1 in.) high and 7 to 10 mm (0.3 to 0.4 in.) in diameter. In each flower head, 30 to 50 white, male ray florets are surround by 15 to 25 greenish yellow tinged with red, functionally female florets. The achenes (dry, one-seeded fruits) are topped by a white pappus comprising a single series of bristles. T. capillare differs from other species of the genus by its very firm leaves with edges rolled under, its solitary flower heads, the color of its disk florets, and its shorter pappus. It differs from T. remyi, with which it sometimes grows, by its more sprawling habit and the shorter stalks of its smaller flower heads (Lowrey 1999).

Additional information on the life history of this plant, reproductive cycles, longevity, specific environmental requirements, and limiting factors is generally unknown (USFWS 1997).

Historically, Tetramolopium capillare is known from Lahainaluna to Wailuku on West Maui (Lowrey 1999). Currently, four known populations with a total of between 130 and 150 individuals are known to be extant near Halepohaku, Koai, and Kauaula on State and privately owned lands (GDSI 2000; USFWS 2000).

Tetramolopium capillare typically grows on rocky substrates at elevations between 610 and 1,050 m (2,000-3,440 ft) in Metrosideros polymorpha-Styphelia tameiameiae montane mesic or wet shrubland or in Heteropogon contortus (pili grass) lowland dry forest. Plant species associated with the higher elevation populations include Dodonaea viscosa, Metrosideros polymorpha, and Styphelia tameiameiae. Dodonaea viscosa, Heteropogon contortus, and Myoporum sandwicense (naio) are associates of the other populations (USFWS 1997).

The major threats to Tetramolopium capillare are fires; competition from alien plant species, particularly Lantana camara, Leucaena leucocephala (koa haole), and Rhynchelytrum repens (natal redtop); and reduced reproductive vigor and/or extinction from random environmental events due to the small number of existing populations and individuals (59 FR 49860; USFWS 1997).

Multi-Island Species

Alectryon macrococcus

Alectryon macrococcus, a long-lived perennial and a member of the soapberry family (Sapindaceae), consists of two varieties, macrococcus and auwahiensis, both trees with reddish-brown branches and net-veined paper or leather-like leaves with one to five pairs of sometimes asymmetrical egg-shaped leaflets. The underside of the leaf has dense brown hairs, only when young in A. macrococcus var. macrococcus, and persistent in A. macrococcus var. auwahiensis. The only member of its genus found in Hawaii, this species is distinguished from other Hawaiian members of its family by being a tree with a hard fruit 2.5 cm (1 in.) or more in diameter (57 FR 20772; Wagner et al. 1999).

Alectryon macrococcus is a relatively slow-growing, long-lived tree that grows in xeric to mesic sites and is adapted to periodic drought. Little else is known about the life history of A. macrococcus. Flowering cycles, pollination vectors, seed dispersal agents, longevity, and specific environmental requirements are unknown.

Historically and currently, Alectryon macrococcus var. macrococcus is known from Kauai, Oahu, Molokai, and Maui. On Maui, this taxon is found along the Honokowai Ditch Trail and in Launiupoko Valley, on or near State and privately owned lands (GDSI 2000; HINHP Database 2000). There are three populations with a total of four individuals (HINHP Database 2000). Currently, A. macrococcus var. auwahiensis is known from three populations with 22 individuals on leeward East Maui in the Auwahi and Kanaio districts, and on the slopes of Haleakala on private land and State-owned, but privately leased, ranchland (Medeiros et al. 1986; GDSI 2000; HINHP Database 2000).

The habitat of Alectryon macrococcus var. macrococcus is dry slopes or in gulches in dense mesic mixed Metrosideros polymorpha forest or Diospyros sandwicensis forest at elevations of 360-1,070 m (1,180-3,510 ft) (HINHP Database 2000). Associated native plants include Nestegis sandwicensis and Antidesma platyphyllum (hame). The habitat of A. macrococcus var. auwahiensis is mixed lowland dry forest at elevations of 360-1,070 m (1,180-3,510 ft). Associated native plants include Diospyros sandwicensis, Dodonaea viscosa, Osteomeles anthyllidifolia, Alphitonia ponderosa, Santalum ellipticum, Xylosma hawaiiensis, Nestegis sandwicensis, Streblus pendulinus (aiai), and Pleomele auwahiensis (HINHP Database 2000; K. Wood, in litt. 1999).

The threats to Alectryon macrococcus var. macrococcus on Maui include feral goats and pigs; alien plant species, such as Melinus minutiflora (molasses grass), Pennisetum clandestinum (kikuyu grass), Schinus terebinthifolius (Christmasberry), and Psidium cattleianum; damage from the black twig borer; seed predation by rats and mice (Mus musculus); fire; seed predation by insects (probably the endemic microlepidopteran Prays cf. fulvocanella); loss of pollinators; depressed reproductive vigor; and due to the very small remaining number of individuals and their limited distribution, a single natural or human-caused environmental disturbance could easily be catastrophic. The threats to A. macrococcus var. auwahiensis on Maui are damage from the black twig borer; seed predation by rats and mice; habitat degradation by feral pigs and escaped cattle; seed predation by insects (probably Prays cf. fulvocanella); loss of pollinators; depressed reproductive vigor; and due to the very small remaining number of individuals and their limited distribution, a single natural or human-caused environmental disturbance could easily be catastrophic (57 FR 20772).

Bidens micrantha ssp. kalealaha

Bidens micrantha ssp. kalealaha, a short-lived member of the aster family (Asteraceae), is an erect perennial herb. This subspecies can be distinguished from other subspecies by the shape of the seeds, the density of the flower clusters, the numbers of ray and disk florets per head, differences in leaf surfaces, and other characteristics (57 FR 20772; Ganders and Nagata 1999).

Bidens micrantha is known to hybridize with other native Bidens, such as B. mauiensis and B. menziesii, and possibly B. conjuncta (Ganders and Nagata 1999). Little else is known about the life history of Bidens micrantha ssp. kalealaha. Flowering cycles, pollination vectors, seed dispersal agents, longevity, and specific environmental requirements are unknown.

Historically, Bidens micrantha ssp. kalealaha was known from Lanai, the south slope of Haleakala on East Maui, and from one locality on West Maui (Ganders and Nagata 1999; HINHP Database 2000). Currently, this taxon remains only on East Maui in Kahua, Manawainui to Wailaulau, and in Haleakala National Park, on State and Federal lands. There are a total of four populations with less than 2,000 individuals altogether (USFWS 1999; GDSI 2000; HINHP Database 2000).

The habitat of Bidens micrantha ssp. kalealaha is blocky lava flows with little or no soil development, deep pit craters, and sheer rock walls in open canopy Metrosideros polymorpha-Acacia koa forest, montane shrubland, or cliff faces at elevations of 1,600 to 2,300 m (5,250 to 7,550 ft) (Ganders and Nagata 1999; HINHP Database 2000). Associated native species include Styphelia tameiameiae, Coprosma montana, Dodonaea viscosa, Lysimachia remyi, Viola chamissoniana, Dubautia menziesii, and Dubautia platyphylla (na ena e) (Ganders and Nagata 1999; HINHP Database 2000).

The threats to this species on Maui are habitat destruction by feral goats, pigs, and cattle; competition from a variety of invasive plant species; and fire (57 FR 20772).

Bonamia menziesii

Bonamia menziesii, a short-lived perennial member of the morning-glory family (Convolvulaceae), is a vine with twining branches that are fuzzy when young. This species is the only member of the genus that is endemic to the Hawaiian Islands and differs from other genera in the family by its two styles, longer stems and petioles, and rounder leaves (Austin 1999).

Little is known about the life history of this plant. Reproductive cycles, longevity, specific environmental requirements, and limiting factors are unknown.

Historically, Bonamia menziesii was known from Kauai, Oahu, Molokai, one location on West Maui, and the island of Hawaii (HINHP Database 2000). Currently, this species is known from Kauai, Oahu, Lanai, Maui, and Hawaii. On Maui, this species is known from Puu o kali; Honokowai Ditch Trail; and Kanaio NAR. Currently there are three populations containing a total of 11 individuals on State and privately owned lands (GDSI 2000; HINHP Database 2000; K. Wood, in litt. 1999).

Bonamia menziesii is found on a‘a lava in mixed open dry forest, or Erythrina sandwicensis (wiliwili) lowland dry forest, and in mesic mixed Metrosideros polymorpha forest at elevations between 150 and 850 m (490 and 2,800 ft) (HINHP database 1999; K. Wood, in litt. 1999). Associated species include Nestegis sandwicensis, Pleomele auwahiensis, Dodonaea viscosa, Osteomeles anthyllidifolia, Alphitonia ponderosa, Santalum ellipticum, Xylosma hawaiiensis, Nothocestrum latifolium (aiea), Pouteria sandwicensis, Achyranthes splendens (NCN), Acacia koaia (koaia), Sida fallax, Reynoldsia sandwicensis (ohe), Sicyos sp. (anunu), Lipochaeta rockii (nehe), Nototrichium sp. (kului), Myoporum sandwicense (HINHP Database 2000; K. Wood, in litt. 1999).

The primary threats to this species on Maui are habitat degradation and possible predation by feral pigs, goats, axis deer, and cattle; competition with a variety of alien plant species, particularly Pennisetum setaceum, Lantana camara, and Bocconia frutescens; and an alien beetle (Physomerus grossipes) (59 FR 56333).

Cenchrus agrimonioides

Cenchrus agrimonioides is a short-lived perennial member of the grass family (Poaceae) with leaf blades which are flat or folded and have a prominent midrib. There are two varieties, C. agrimonioides var. laysanensis and C. agrimonioides var. agrimonioides. They differ from each other in that var. agrimonioides has smaller burs, shorter stems, and narrower leaves. This species is distinguished from others in the genus by the cylindrical to lance-shaped bur and the arrangement and position of the bristles (O'Connor 1999).

Little is known about the life history of this plant. Reproductive cycles, longevity, specific environmental requirements, and limiting factors are generally unknown, however, this species has been observed to produce fruit year round (USFWS 1999).

Historically, Cenchrus agrimonioides var. agrimonioides was known from the Oahu, Lanai, and the south slope of Haleakala and Ulupalakua on Maui, and an undocumented report from the Island of Hawaii (61 FR 53108). Historically, C. agrimonioides var laysanensis was known from Laysan, Kure, and Midway, all within the Northwestern Hawaiian Islands National Wildlife Refuge. This variety has not been seen since 1973 (61 FR 53108; Corn 1980). Currently, Cenchrus agrimonioides var. agrimonioides is known from Oahu and Maui. On Maui, this variety is known from a single population within the Kanaio NAR, containing an unknown number of individuals (HINHP Database 2000).

Cenchrus agrimonioides var. agrimonioides is found on rough a‘a lava scree in mesic Metrosideros polymorpha-Acacia koa forest at elevations between 560 and 820 m (1,830 and 2,700 ft). Associated plants include Alyxia oliviformis, Canthium odoratum (alahee), Carex sp., Diospyros sp. (lama), Styphelia tameiameiae, and Eragrostis variabilis (61 FR 53108; HINHP Database 2000).

The major threats to the only known population of Cenchrus agrimonioides var. agrimonioides on Maui are competition with alien plants; browsing and habitat degradation by goats and cattle; and a risk of extinction from naturally occurring events and/or reduced reproductive vigor due to the small number of existing individuals (61 FR 53108).

Centaurium sebaeoides

Centaurium sebaeoides is an annual herb in the gentian family (Gentianaceae), with fleshy leaves and stalkless flowers. This species is distinguished from C. erythraea, which is naturalized in Hawaii, by its fleshy leaves and the unbranched arrangement of the flower cluster (56 FR 55770; Wagner et al. 1999).

Centaurium sebaeoides has been observed flowering in April. Flowering may be induced by heavy rainfall. Populations are found in dry areas, and plants are more likely to be found following heavy rains (USFWS 1995c). Other than that, little is known about the life history of this plant. Reproductive cycles, longevity, specific environmental regulations, and limiting factors are generally unknown.

Historically and currently, Centaurium sebaeoides is known from Kauai, Oahu, Molokai, Lanai, and Maui (Wagner et al. 1999). On Maui, there are three populations of this species, with a total of more than 50 individuals, on or near State and privately owned lands, north of Waihee; Puu Koae; and near the mouth of Makamakaole Stream (HINHP Database 2000).

This species typically grows in volcanic or clay soils or on cliffs in arid coastal areas below 250 m (820 ft) elevation (56 FR 55770; Wagner et al. 1999). Associated species include Panicum torridum (kakonakona), Lysimachia mauritiana (kolokolo kuahiwi), Schiedea globosa (NCN), Lipochaeta integrifolia (nehe), Argemone glauca (pua kala), Bidens mauiensis, Lycium sandwicense (ohelo kai), and Dicranopteris linearis (HINHP Database 2000).

The major threats to this species on Maui are habitat degradation by feral goats and cattle; competition from the alien plant species Leucaena leucocephala; trampling by humans on or near trails; and fire (56 FR 55770).

Clermontia lindseyana

Clermontia lindseyana, a short-lived perennial and a member of the bellflower family (Campanulaceae), is a small, branched tree that grows 2.5-6 m (8.2 to 20 ft) tall (Lammers 1999). Clermontia lindseyana is either terrestrial or epiphytic, living on the surface of other plants. The upper surface of the oblong-shaped leaves is dark green while the lower is pale green or purplish and hairy. Leaf stalks are 2.5-7 cm (1-2.8 in.) long and hairy. Berries are 2.5-4 cm (1-1.6 in.) wide, almost round, and orange. Clermontia lindseyana is easily separable from the other taxa within this genus by several characters: much larger leaves and flowers, similar petals and sepals, and spreading floral lobes (Cuddihy et al. 1983; Lammers 1999). Rock (1962) commented on the leaves being conspicuously hairy beneath.

This species was observed in fruit from June to October, and in flower from February to August (HINHP Database 2000). No other life history information is currently available.

Historically, Clermontia lindseyana was known on Maui from the southern slope of Haleakala and the eastern portion of the island, and on the island of Hawaii. Since 1975, populations of Clermontia lindseyana have been identified on Maui and Hawaii (59 FR 10305). The two Maui populations are located in Waiopai and Wailaulau Gulches in the Kahikinui Forest Reserve and in Kula Forest Reserve on State and private lands, and are estimated to total about 330 individuals (Arthur Medeiros, U.S. Geological Survey, Biological Resources Division, in litt. 2000; HINHP Database 2000; GDSI 2000).

The extant populations grow in remnant Acacia koa mesic forest on the leeward slopes between 1,311 and 2,150 m (4,300 and 7,041 ft). Associated native taxa include the following native plant species: Cyrtandra oxybapha, native fern species, Phlegmariurus mannii, Ilex anomala (aiea), Coprosma sp., and Myrsine sp. (HINHP Database 2000; USFWS 1996).

The threats to Clermontia lindseyana are trampling and grazing by cattle, trampling and browsing by goats, and rooting and trampling by pigs; competition with the alien plant Pennisetum clandestinum; and consumption of berries, flowers, and vegetation by black rats (59 FR 10305).

Clermontia oblongifolia ssp. mauiensis

Clermontia oblongifolia ssp. mauiensis, a short-lived perennial and a member of the bellflower family (Campanulaceae), is a shrub or tree with oblong to lance-shaped leaves on leaf stalks (petioles). Clermontia oblongifolia is distinguished from other members of the genus by its calyx and corolla, which are similar in color and are each fused into a curved tube that falls off as the flower ages. The species is also distinguished by the leaf shape, the male floral parts, the shape of the flower buds, and the lengths of the leaf and flower stalks, the flower, and the smooth green basal portion of the flower (the hypanthium) (57 FR 20772; Lammers 1988, 1999). Clermontia oblongifolia ssp. mauiensis is reported from Maui and Lanai, while ssp. oblongifolia is only known from Oahu and ssp. brevipes is only known from Molokai.

Clermontia oblongifolia ssp. mauiensis is known to flower from November to July (Rock 1919). Little is known regarding pollination vectors, seed dispersal, or other factors.

Historically, Clermontia oblongifolia ssp. mauiensis was known from Lanai and from Honomanu Valley on Haleakala, East Maui (57 FR 20772; Lammers 1999). Currently, it is reported from Lanai and Maui. On West Maui, this taxon is known from one population with an unknown number of individuals, along the trail to Puu Kukui in the Honokowai section of the West Maui NAR on or near State and privately owned lands (GDSI 2000; HINHP Database 2000; Lammers 1999).

This plant typically grows on the sides of ridges in Metrosideros polymorpha-dominated montane wet forest at elevations between 850-1,000 m (2,800-3,280 ft) (57 FR 20772; HINHP Database 2000). Associated native species include Dicranopteris linearis, Coprosma sp., Clermontia sp., Hedyotis sp., and Melicope sp. (57 FR 20772; HINHP Database 2000).

The only known population of this species on Maui is vulnerable to extinction from a natural or human-caused environmental disturbance due to its small size; depressed reproductive vigor; and habitat degradation by feral pigs (57 FR 20772; USFWS 1997).

Colubrina oppositifolia

Colubrina oppositifolia, a member of the buckthorn family (Rhamnaceae), is a long-lived tree with extremely hard red wood. This species is readily distinguished from the other species in Hawaii by the opposite leaf position, dull leaf surface, and entire leaf margins (Wagner et al. 1999).

This species was observed in fruit and flower during September 1929 and June 1968, and in flower during December 1947 and January 1984 (HINHP Database 2000). No other life history information is currently available.

Historically and currently, Colubrina oppositifolia is known from Oahu, Maui, and the Island of Hawaii (59 FR 10305). Currently on Maui, there are two populations containing one individual each on privately owned lands in the Kapunakea Preserve on West Maui and on privately owned lands in the Auwahi area of East Maui (Warshauer 1998; GDSI 2000; HINHP Database 2000).

Habitats of this species are lowland dry and mesic forests dominated by Diospyros sandwicensis, and found at elevations between 240 and 915 m (800 and 3,000 ft). Associated native species include Dodonaea viscosa, Canavalia sp. (awikiwiki), Wikstroemia sp., Canthium odoratum, and Reynoldsia sandwicensis (HINHP Database 2000).

The threats to this species on Maui are habitat destruction by feral pigs; competition with the alien plants Lantana camara, Pennisetum setaceum, and Schinus terebinthifolius; black twig borer; Chinese rose beetles (Adoretus sinicus); fire; and its small population numbers and limited distribution (59 FR 10305; USFWS 1996).

Ctenitis squamigera

Ctenitis squamigera is a short-lived perennial of the wood fern family (Dryopteridaceae) (Wagner and Wagner 1992). It has a rhizome (horizontal stem) 5 to 10 mm (0.2 to 0.4 in.) thick, creeping above the ground and densely covered with scales similar to those on the lower part of the leaf stalk. The leaf stalks are densely clothed with tan-colored scales up to 1.8 cm (0.7 in.) long and 1 mm (0.04 in.) wide. The sori are tan-colored when mature and are in a single row one-third of the distance from the margin to the midrib of the ultimate segments (Degener and Degener 1957). The indusium is whitish before wrinkling, thin, suborbicular with a narra sinus extending about half way, glabrous except for a circular margin which is ciliolate with simple several-celled glandular and nonglandular hairs arising directly from the margin or from the deltoid base (Degener and Degener 1957). Ctenitis squamigera can be readily distinguished from other Hawaiian species of Ctenitis by the dense covering of tan-colored scales on its frond (Wagner and Wagner 1992).

Reproductive cycles, longevity, specific environmental requirements and limiting factors are unknown.

Historically, Ctenitis squamigera was recorded from the islands of Kauai, Oahu, Molokai, Lanai, Maui, and Hawaii (HINHP Database 2000). It is currently found on Oahu, Lanai, Molokai, and Maui. There are currently six populations with between 52 and 58 individuals on State and privately owned lands on the island of Maui (GDSI 2000; Hank Oppenheimer, Maui Pineapple Co., in litt. 2000; K. Wood, pers. comm. 2000; Joel Lau, HINHP, pers. comm. 2000 and in litt. 2000). These populations are all on West Maui, in Honolua Valley; Kahanaiki Gulch; Kanaha Valley; Ukumehame Valley; Kapunakea Preserve; and Iao Valley (H. Oppenheimer, in litt. 2000; K. Wood and J. Lau, pers. comm. 2000).

This species is found in the forest understory at elevations of 380 to 1,000 m (1,250 to 3,280 ft) (HINHP Database 2000; H. Oppenheimer, pers. comm. 2000), in Metrosideros polymorpha montane wet forest, Metrosideros polymorpha-Diospyros sp. mesic forest and diverse mesic forest (HINHP Database 2000). Associated native plant taxa include Alyxia oliviformis, Freycinetia arborea (ieie), Coprosma sp., Pleomele sp. (hala pepe), Thelypteris globulifera (NCN), Sadleria sp. (amau), Doodia sp. (okupukupu lauii), Pittosporum sp. (ho awa), Dryopteris sp., Bobea sp. (ahakea), Antidesma sp. (hame), Peperomia sp., Dicranopteris linearis, Schiedea pubescens var. pubescens, Hibiscus kokio ssp. kokio (kokio), Hedyotis formosa, Pritchardia forbesiana (loulu), Myrsine sp., Psychotria sp. (kopiko), and Xylosma sp. (maua) (USFWS 1998a; HINHP Database 2000).

The primary threats to Ctenitis squamigera are habitat degradation by feral pigs, goats, and axis deer; competition with alien plant taxa, especially Psidium cattleianum and Schinus terebinthifolius; fire; and extinction from naturally occurring events due to the small number of existing populations and individuals (USFWS 1998a).

Cyanea grimesiana ssp. grimesiana

Cyanea grimesiana ssp. grimesiana, a short-lived member of the bellflower family (Campanulaceae), is a perennial shrub with pinnately divided leaves. 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 1999).

Little is known about the life history of this plant. On Molokai, flowering plants have been reported in July and August. Reproductive cycles, longevity, specific environmental requirements, and limiting factors are unknown.

Historically and currently, Cyanea grimesiana ssp. grimesiana is known from Oahu, Molokai, Lanai, and scattered locations on Maui (61 FR 53108). Currently on Maui, there are two populations with a total of five individuals in Iao Valley on State and privately owned lands (61 FR 53108; GDSI 2000; HINHP Database 2000).

This species is typically found in mesic forest often dominated by Metrosideros polymorpha or Metrosideros polymorpha and Acacia koa, on rocky or steep slopes of stream banks, at elevations between 350 and 945 m (1,150 and 3,100 ft). Associated plants include Antidesma sp., Bobea sp., Myrsine sp., Nestegis sandwicensis, Psychotria sp., and Xylosma sp. (61 FR 53108).

The threats to this species on Maui are habitat degradation and/or destruction caused by axis deer, goats, and pigs; competition with various alien plants; randomly naturally occurring events that could cause extinction due to the small number of existing individuals; trampling by hikers; landslides; rats; and slugs (61 FR 53108; USFWS 1999).

Cyanea lobata

Cyanea lobata, a short-lived member of the bellflower family (Campanulaceae), is a sparingly branched perennial shrub with smooth to somewhat rough stems and oblong, irregularly lobed leaves. This species is distinguished from other species of Cyanea by the size of the flower and the irregularly lobed leaves with petioles (Lammers 1999).

Cyanea lobata is known to flower from August to February, even in individuals as small as 50 cm (20 in.) in height (Rock 1919, Degener 1936).

Historically, Cyanea lobata was known from Lanai and West Maui (Lammers 1999; HINHP Database 2000). It is no longer extant on Lanai, and was rediscovered at 600 m (1,970 ft) elevation on privately owned land in Waikapu Valley on West Maui in 1982 (HINHP Database 2000). The single known plant of this species was later destroyed by a landslide triggered by heavy rains (Hobdy et al. 1990; HINHP Database 2000). Another population of three individuals was discovered in 1996 at 560 m (1,840 ft) elevation on privately owned land in Honokohau Valley on West Maui (GDSI 2000: HINHP Database 2000).

This species has been seen and collected on steep stream banks in deep shade in wet forest at elevations of 550-915 m (1,800-3,000 ft) with Touchardia latifolia (olona), Morinda trimera (noni), and Athyrium sp. (akolea) ( 57 FR 20772; Lammers 1999; HINHP Database 2000).

The threats to this species on Maui are habitat degradation by feral pigs; depressed reproductive vigor; and natural or human-caused environmental disturbance that could easily be catastrophic to the only known population due to the small number of remaining individuals and the limited and scattered distribution of the species (57 FR 20772; USFWS 1997).

Cyrtandra munroi

Cyrtandra munroi, a short-lived perennial and member of the African violet family (Gesneriaceae), is a shrub with opposite, elliptic to almost circular leaves which are sparsely to moderately hairy on the upper surface and covered with velvety, rust-colored hairs underneath. This species is distinguished from other species of the genus by the broad opposite leaves, the length of the flower cluster stalks, the size of the flowers, and the amount of hair on various parts of the plant (Wagner et al. 1999).

Some work has been done on the reproductive biology of some species of Cyrtandra (USFWS 1995b), but not on that of C. munroi specifically. The pollinators of these plants have not been identified, although studies indicate that a specific pollinator may be necessary for successful pollination. Seed dispersal may be carried out by birds which eat the fruits (USFWS 1995b). Flowering time, longevity of plants and seeds, specific environmental requirements, and other limiting factors are unknown.

Historically and currently, Cyrtandra munroi is known from Lanai and West Maui (Wagner et al. 1999; HINHP Database 2000). Currently on Maui, there is a single population in Kahana Valley containing more than 30 individuals on State and privately owned lands (GDSI 2000; HINHP Database 2000).

The habitat of this species is lowland wet Metrosideros polymorpha-Dicranopteris linearis forest, typically on rich, moist to wet, moderately steep talus slopes from 300 to 920 m (980-3,020 ft). It occurs on soil and rock substrates on slopes from watercourses in gulch bottoms and up the sides of gulch slopes to near ridgetops. Associated native species include Diospyros sp., Hedyotis acuminata, Clermontia sp., Alyxia oliviformis, Bobea sp., Coprosma sp., Freycinetia arborea, Melicope sp., Myrsine sp., Perrottetia sandwicensis, Pipturus sp. (mamaki), Pittosporum sp., Pleomele sp., Pouteria sandwicensis, Psychotria sp., Sadleria sp., Scaevola sp. (naupaka), Xylosma sp., and other Cyrtandra sp. ( 57 FR 20772; HINHP Database 2000).

The threats to this species on Maui are from browsing and habitat disturbance by axis deer; competition with the alien plant species Psidium cattleianum, Myrica faya (firetree), Leptospermum scoparium (tea tree), Pluchea symphytifolia (sourbush), Melinis minutiflora, Rubus rosifolius, and Paspalum conjugatum (Hilo grass); loss of appropriate pollinators; a very small number of extant individuals which can cause depressed reproductive vigor; and the effects of random environmental events that could easily be catastrophic to the only known population on Maui (57 FR 20772; USFWS 1995b).

Diellia erecta

Diellia erecta, a short-lived perennial fern in the spleenwort family (Aspleniaceae), grows in tufts of 3 to 9 lance-shaped fronds emerging from a rhizome covered with brown to dark gray scales. This species differs from other members of the genus in having brown or dark gray scales usually more than 2 cm (0.8 in.) in length, fused or separate sori along both margins, shiny black midribs that have a hardened surface, and veins that do not usually encircle the sori (Smith 1934; Degener and Greenwell 1950; Wagner 1952).

Little is known about the life history of this taxon. Reproductive cycles, longevity, specific environmental requirements, and limiting factors are unknown.

Historically, Diellia erecta was known on Kauai, Oahu, Molokai, Lanai, scattered locations on Maui, and various locations on the Island of Hawaii (USFWS 1999). Currently, it is only known from Molokai, Maui, and Hawaii. On Maui, there are four known populations containing 23 individual plants on or near State or privately owned lands in Iao Valley, Manawainui Plant Sanctuary, Papalaua Gulch, and Waiopai Gulch (GDSI 2000; HINHP Database 2000).

This species is found in deep shade on steep slopes or gulch bottoms in Diospyros sandwicensis-Metrosideros polymorpha lowland mesic forest at elevations between 210 and 1,590 m (700 and 5,200 ft) (HINHP Database 2000; USFWS 1999). Associated native plant species include Nestegis sp., Styphelia tameiameiae, Melicope sp., Coprosma sp., Dodonaea viscosa, Dryopteris unidentata (NCN), Myrsine sp., Psychotria sp., Pleomele auwahiensis, Syzygium sandwicensis (ohia ha), and Wikstroemia sp. (HINHP Database 2000; USFWS 1999).

The major threats to Diellia erecta on Maui are habitat degradation by pigs, goats, and cattle; competition with alien plant species, including Blechnum occidentale (NCN); and random naturally occurring events that could cause extinction and/or reduced reproductive vigor due to the small number of existing individuals (59 FR 56333; USFWS 1996).

Diplazium molokaiense

Diplazium molokaiense, a short-lived perennial member of the woodfern family (Dryopteridaceae), has a short prostrate rhizome and green or straw-colored leaf stalks with thin-textured fronds. This species can be distinguished from other species of Diplazium in the Hawaiian Islands by a combination of characteristics, including venation pattern, the length and arrangement of the sori, frond shape, and the degree of dissection of the frond (Wagner and Wagner 1992).

There is little known about the life history of this plant. Reproductive cycles, longevity, specific environmental requirements, and limiting factors are unknown.

Historically, Diplazium molokaiense was found on Kauai, Oahu, Molokai, Lanai, and Ainahou Valley and Maliko Gulch (East Maui) and Wailuku (Iao) Valley and Waikapu (West Maui) on Maui (HINHP Database 2000). Currently, this species is only known from Maui. Two populations with one individual each are found in Waiopai Gulch and Makawao Forest Reserve, on or near State or privately owned lands (Warshauer 1998; GDSI 2000; HINHP Database 2000).

This species occurs near water falls in lowland or montane mesic Metrosideros polymorpha-Acacia koa forest between 850 and 1,680 m (2,800 and 5,500 ft) in elevation (USFWS 1998a; HINHP Database 2000).

The primary threats on Maui are habitat degradation by feral goats, cattle, pigs, and axis deer; competition with alien plant taxa; decreased reproductive vigor; and extinction from randomly occurring natural events due to the small number of populations and individuals (59 FR 49025; USFWS 1998a; HINHP Database 2000).

Flueggea neowawraea

Flueggea neowawraea, a long-lived perennial and a member of the spurge family (Euphorbiaceae), is a large tree with white oblong pores covering its scaly, pale brown bark. This species is the only member of the genus found in Hawaii and can be distinguished from other species in the genus by its large size, scaly bark, the shape, size, and color of the leaves, flowers clustered along the branches, and the size and shape of the fruits (Linney 1982; Hayden 1999).

Individual trees of Flueggea neowawraea bear only male or female flowers, and must be cross-pollinated from a different tree to produce viable seed (Hayden 1999). Little else is known about the life history of this species. Reproductive cycles, longevity, specific environmental requirements, and limiting factors are unknown.

Historically, Flueggea neowawraea was known from the islands of Molokai, Oahu, Kauai, and Hawaii (HINHP Database 2000). Currently, populations are known from Kauai, Oahu, East Maui, and Hawaii. It is now known from two populations with a total of three trees on East Maui at Auwahi, and above the Lualailua Hills on the southwest slope of Haleakala, on State and privately owned lands (GDSI 2000; HINHP Database 2000; Mahealani Kaiaokamelie, (formerly with) Ulupalakua Ranch, in litt. 2000).

Flueggea neowawraea occurs in dry or mesic forest at elevations of 250 to 1,000 m (820 to 3,280 ft) (Hayden 1999). Associated native plant species include Alectryon macrococcus, Bobea timonioides (ahakea), Charpentiera sp. (papala), Hibiscus sp. (aloalo), Melicope sp., Myrsine lanaiensis (kolea), Tetraplasandra sp. (ohe ohe), Psychotria mariniana (kopiko), Diplazium sandwichianum, Freycinetia arborea, Nesoluma polynesicum (keahi), Diospyros sp., Antidesma pulvinatum (hame), A. platyphyllum, Canthium odoratum, Nestegis sandwicensis, Rauvolfia sandwicensis (hao), Pittosporum sp., Pleomele sp., Pouteria sandwicensis, and Streblus pendulinus (HINHP Database 2000).

The threats to the populations on Maui are the black twig borer; habitat degradation by feral pigs, goats, deer, and cattle; competition with alien plant species; depressed reproductive vigor; the risk of extinction from a random environmental event due to the small number of individuals; and predation of the fruit by rats (59 FR 56333; USFWS 1999; HINHP Database 2000).

Hedyotis coriacea

Hedyotis coriacea, a member of the coffee family (Rubiaceae), is a small, short-lived perennial shrub with leathery leaves which are generally elliptic to oblong in shape, 3 to 8 cm (1.2 to 3.1 in.) long and usually 1.5 to 3 cm (0.6 to 1.2 in.) wide. This species is distinguished from others of the genus by its small, triangular calyx lobes, which do not enlarge in fruit, and the combination of capsules which are longer than wide and flower buds which are square in cross section (Wagner et al. 1999).

Little is known about the life history of this plant. Flowering cycles, pollination vectors, seed dispersal agents, longevity, specific environmental requirements, and limiting factors are unknown.

Historically, Hedyotis coriacea was known from Oahu and the Island of Hawaii (HINHP Database 2000). Considered extinct on all islands in recent years, this species was rediscovered in 1990 by Steve Perlman in the State-owned Lihau section of the West Maui NAR and in 1991 on the 1859 lava flow in the Pohakuloa Training Area, Island of Hawaii (HINHP Database 2000; USFWS 1997). Currently, only a single individual is known from West Maui on State-owned land (GDSI 2000; HINHP Database 2000).

Hedyotis coriacea is found on steep, rocky, slopes in dry lowland Dodonaea viscosa dominated shrublands at elevations between 470 to 2,300 m (1,540 to 7,550 ft) (HINHP Database 2000). Associated species include Sida fallax, Gouania hillebrandii (NCN), Bidens menziesii, Lipochaeta livarum, Myoporum sp. (naio), and Schiedea menziesii (NCN) (HINHP Database 2000).

The single remaining individual of Hedyotis coriacea on Maui is threatened by extinction from a random naturally occurring event.

Hedyotis mannii

Hedyotis mannii, a member of the coffee family (Rubiaceae), is a short-lived perennial plant with smooth, usually erect stems 30 to 60 cm (1 to 2 ft) long, which are woody at the base and four-angled or winged. The leaves are opposite, thin in texture, and elliptic to sometimes lance-shaped. Stipules (leaf-like appendages), which are attached to the slightly winged leaf stalks where they join and clasp the stem, are triangular. Flowers are arranged in loose clusters up to 30 cm (1 ft) long at the ends of the stems and are either bisexual or female. This species' growth habit, its quadrangular or winged stems, the shape, size, and texture of its leaves, and its dry capsule, which opens when mature, separate it from other species of the genus (Wagner et al. 1999).

Currently, no life history information is available for this species (USFWS 1996).

Currently and historically, Hedyotis mannii is known from Lanai, West Maui, and Molokai (USFWS 1992). On Maui, there is a single population of approximately 20 individuals located on private land in Kauaula Valley (GDSI 2000; K. Wood in litt. 2000).

The population on Maui is found on basalt cliffs along stream banks in Metrosideros polymorpha-Dicranopteris linearis montane wet forest between 825 and 885 m (2,700 and 2,900 ft) (K. Wood in litt. 2000). Associated plant species include Machaerina sp. (uki), Carex meyenii (NCN), Phyllostegia sp. (NCN), Hedyotis acuminata, Cyrtandra platyphylla (haiwale), Cyanea sp. (haha), and Isachne distichophylla (ohe) (K. Wood in litt. 2000).

Hedyotis mannii on Maui is threatened by landslides; competition with the alien plant species Rubus rosifolius, Ageratina adenophora, Buddleia asiatica (butterfly bush), Pluchea carolinensis (sourbush), and Clidemia hirta; and the low number of individuals makes it extremely vulnerable to extinction by random naturally occurring events (USFWS 1996; K. Wood in litt. 2000).

Hesperomannia arborescens

Hesperomannia arborescens, a long-lived perennial of the aster family (Asteraceae), is a small shrubby tree that usually stands 1.5 to 5 m (5 to 16 ft) tall. This member of an endemic Hawaiian genus differs from other Hesperomannia species in having the following combination of characteristics: erect to ascending flower heads, thick flower head stalks, and usually hairless and relatively narrow leaves (Wagner et al. 1999).

This species was observed in flower from April through June and fruit during March 1993 and June 1997 (USFWS 1998). No other information is available on reproductive cycles, longevity, specific environmental requirements, and limiting factors.

Hesperomannia arborescens was formerly known from Lanai, Molokai, and Oahu (HINHP Database 2000). This species is now known from Oahu, Molokai, and Maui. There is currently one population with four individuals on East Maui, between Lanilili and Keahikauo on State and privately-owned lands (GDSI 2000; HINHP Database 2000).

Hesperomannia arborescens is found on slopes or ridges in lowland mesic or wet forest between 360 and 750 m (1,180 and 2,460 ft) in elevation, in association with Metrosideros polymorpha, Myrsine sandwicensis (kolea), Isachne distichophylla, Pipturus sp., Antidesma sp., Psychotria sp., Clermontia sp., Cibotium sp., Dicranopteris linearis, Bobea sp., Coprosma sp., Sadleria sp., Melicope sp., Machaerina sp., Cheirodendron sp., and Freycinetia arborea (HINHP Database 2000).

The major threats to Hesperomannia arborescens on Maui are habitat degradation by feral pigs and goats; competition with alien plant taxa; extinction due to random environmental events or reduced reproductive vigor due to the small number of individuals in one remaining population; and impact by humans (59 FR 14482; HINHP Database 2000).

Hesperomannia arbuscula

Hesperomannia arbuscula, a long-lived perennial member of the aster family (Asteraceae), is a small shrubby tree, 2 to 3.3 m (7 to 11 ft) tall. This species can be distinguished from other members of the genus by the erect flower heads and the leaves, usually hairy beneath, which are one to two times as long as wide (Wagner et al. 1999).

Hesperomannia arbuscula usually flowers in the spring depending on precipitation. Seeds mature in about six weeks and trees last about 10 to 15 years (USFWS 1995c). No other information is available on reproductive cycles, longevity, specific environmental requirements, and limiting factors.

Historically and currently, Hesperomannia arbuscula is known from Oahu and West Maui (HINHP Database 2000). On Maui, this species is found in three populations, containing 13 individuals, on privately owned land in Iao and Waihee Valleys (GDSI 2000; HINHP Database 2000; K. Wood, in litt. 1999).

Hesperomannia arbuscula typically grows on slopes and ridges in mesic or wet forest dominated by Acacia koa and Metrosideros polymorpha at elevations of 350 to 900 m (1,150 to 2,950 ft) (Wagner et al. 1999; HINHP Database 2000). Associated species include Bidens sp., Tetraplasandra sp., Alyxia oliviformis, and Psychotria sp. (HINHP Database 2000).

The major threats to Hesperomannia arbuscula on Maui are habitat degradation by feral pigs, competition from alien plant species, trampling by humans, and extinction from naturally occurring random events due to the small number of populations (56 FR 55770).

Hibiscus brackenridgei

Hibiscus brackenridgei, a short-lived perennial and a member of the mallow family (Malvaceae). The species is a sprawling to erect shrub or small tree. This species differs from other members of the genus in having the following combination of characteristics: yellow petals, a calyx consisting of triangular lobes with raised veins and a single midrib, bracts attached below the calyx, and thin stipules that fall off, leaving an elliptic scar. Two subspecies are currently recognized, Hibiscus brackenridgei ssp. brackenridgei and H. brackenridgei ssp. mokuleianus (Bates 1999).

Hibiscus brackenridgei is known to flower continuously from early February through late May, and intermittently at other times of year. Intermittent flowering may possibly be tied to day length (USFWS 1999). Little else is known about the life history of this plant. Pollination biology, longevity, specific environmental requirements, and limiting factors are unknown.

Historically, Hibiscus brackenridgei was known from the islands of Kauai, Oahu, Lanai, Maui, Molokai, and Hawaii (USFWS 1999; HINHP Database 2000). Hibiscus brackenridgei was collected from an undocumented site on Kahoolawe, though the subspecies has never been determined (USFWS 1999). Currently, Hibiscus brackenridgei ssp. mokuleianus is known from Oahu and from undocumented observations on Kauai (Bates 1999; USFWS 1999). Hibiscus brackenridgei ssp. brackenridgei is currently known from Lanai, Maui, and Hawaii. On Maui, Hibiscus brackenridgei ssp. brackenridgei is found in five populations, containing 38 individuals, on or near State and privately owned lands at the northern base of Puu o kali, in the Lihau section of the West Maui NAR, Kaonohua Gulch, Keokea, and south of Puu o kali (GDSI 2000; HINHP Database 2000).

Hibiscus brackenridgei ssp. brackenridgei occurs in lowland dry forest from 130 to 800 m (425 to 2,625 ft) in elevation, sometimes with Erythrina sandwicensis as the dominant tree (Geesink et al. 1999; HINHP Database 2000). Associated plant species include Myoporum sp., Chenopodium sp. (ahe ahea), Achyranthes sp. (NCN), Nototrichium sp., Diospyros sp., Chamaesyce celastroides var. lorifolia, Dodonaea viscosa, Canthium odoratum, Eurya sandwicensis (anini), Isachne distichophylla, and Sida fallax (HINHP Database 2000).

The primary threats to Hibiscus brackenridgei ssp. brackenridgei on Maui are habitat degradation and possible predation by pigs, goats, cattle, axis deer, and rats; competition with alien plant species; and susceptibility to extinction caused by random environmental events or reduced reproductive vigor due to small population size and a limited number of populations (59 FR 56333).

Ischaemum byrone

Ischaemum byrone, a short-lived member of the grass family (Poaceae), is a perennial species with creeping underground and erect stems. Ischaemum byrone can be distinguished from other Hawaiian grasses by its tough outer flower bracts, dissimilar basic flower units, which are awned and two-flowered, and a di- or trichotomously-branching inflorescence (O'Connor 1999).

Additional information on the life history of this plant, reproductive cycles, longevity, specific environmental requirements, and limiting factors is generally unknown (USFWS 1996).

Historically, Ischaemum byrone was reported from Oahu, Molokai, East Maui, the Island of Hawaii, and an undocumented site on Kauai (59 FR 10305; HINHP Database 2000). Currently, this species is found on Molokai, Hawaii, and Maui. On Maui, it is known from along the coast on private and State owned lands at Kahanu Gardens, Pauwalu Point, Honokalani, Kauiki Head, and on the following offshore islets: Keopuka Islet, Mokuhuki Islet, and Puukii Islet (GDSI 2000; HINHP Database 2000). There is a total of six populations with less than 3,000 individuals (HINHP Database 2000).

The habitat of Ischaemum byrone is coastal dry shrubland, occurring near the ocean among rocks or on basalt cliffs between sea level and 75 m (250 ft) (O'Connor 1999). Associated taxa include Bidens sp., Fimbristylis cymosa (Maui u aki aki), and Scaevola sericea (naupaka kahakai) (HINHP Database 2000).

The most serious threat to Ischaemum byrone is the invasion of alien plants, particularly Digitaria ciliaris (Henry's crabgrass), Ardisia elliptica (shoebutton ardesia) and Casuarina equisetifolia (paina). Additionally, fire may pose a threat in areas infested with alien grasses, provided enough fuel is present. Other potential threats include grazing and browsing by goats and axis deer; disturbance incurred from these ungulates further promotes the introduction and establishment of alien weeds. Some populations are also threatened from residential development (59 FR 10305; USFWS 1996; HINHP Database 2000).

Lysimachia lydgatei

Lysimachia lydgatei, a short-lived perennial member of the primrose family (Primulaceae), is a sprawling, branched shrub with stems from 1 to 1.3 m (3 to 4 ft) long. This species is distinguished from others in the genus by the dense hairs on both the upper and lower surfaces of mature leaves (Wagner et al. 1999).

Additional information on the life history of this plant, reproductive cycles, longevity, specific environmental requirements, and limiting factors is generally unknown (USFWS 1997).

Lysimachia lydgatei was known historically from a gulch behind Lahaina on West Maui and from Oahu. Currently, it is found only on Maui in the following locations on State-owned land in the Lihau section of the West Maui NAR: Halepohaku, Helu, and Kauaula-Olowalu (Wagner et al. 1999; HINHP Database 2000). The three Maui populations number approximately 240 individuals (GDSI 2000).

Lysimachia lydgatei typically grows on the sides of steep ridges in Metrosideros polymorpha-Dicranopteris linearis dominated wet to mesic shrubland or Metrosideros-Cheirodendron montane forest between elevations of about 915 to 1,415 m (3,000-4,640 ft) (HINHP Database 2000). Associated vegetation includes Lycopodium sp. (wawae iole), Ilex sp., Dodonaea viscosa, Vaccinium sp., Eurya sandwicensis, Styphelia tameiameiae, Coprosma sp., Ochrosia sp. (holei), Astelia sp. (painiu), Broussaisia arguta, and mat ferns, such as Dicranopteris sp. (HINHP Database 2000).

The greatest threats to Lysimachia lydgatei are the threat of extinction from a random environmental event due to the small number of populations; competition with alien plant species, such as Rubus argutus; and fire (57 FR 20772; USFWS 1997).

Mariscus pennatiformis

Mariscus pennatiformis, a short-lived member of the sedge family (Cyperaceae), is a perennial plant with a woody root system covered with brown scales. Mariscus pennatiformis is subdivided into two subspecies, ssp. bryanii and ssp. pennatiformis, which are distinguished by the length and width of the spikelets; color, length, and width of the glume; and by the shape and length of the achenes. This species differs from other members of the genus by its three-sided, slightly concave, smooth stems; the length and number of spikelets; the leaf width; and the length and diameter of stems (Koyama 1999).

Mariscus pennatiformis is known to flower from November to December after heavy rainfall. Additional information on the life history of this plant, reproductive cycles, longevity, specific environmental requirements, and limiting factors is generally unknown (USFWS 1999).

Historically, Mariscus pennatiformis was known from Kauai, Oahu, East Maui (Keanae Valley, Hana, and Nahiku), the Island of Hawaii, and from Laysan in the Northwestern Hawaiian Islands (HINHP Database 2000). M. pennatiformis ssp. bryanii is only known from Laysan Island in the Northwestern Hawaiian Islands National Wildlife Refuge. M. pennatiformis ssp. pennatiformis is currently found only on East Maui. One population of approximately 30 individuals is found on State owned land near the mouth of Hanawi Stream (GDSI 2000; K. Wood in litt. 1999).

On Maui, Mariscus pennatiformis ssp. pennatiformis is found at elevations between sea-level and 6 m (20 ft) on brown soil with talus in Pandanus coastal wet cliffs and within reach of ocean spray. Associated native plant species include: Sadleria pallida (amau), Pandanus tectorius (hala), Lysimachia mauritiana (kolokolo kuahiwi), Cyperus laevigatus (makaloa), Eragrostis variabilis, and Ipomoea sp. (morning glory) (Koyama 1999; HINHP Database 2000; K. Wood in litt. 1999).

Threats to the only known population of Mariscus pennatiformis ssp. pennatiformis on Maui include grazing and habitat destruction caused by ungulates; competition from alien plant species; and extinction from random naturally occurring events (59 FR 56333; USFWS 1999).

Melicope knudsenii

Melicope knudsenii, a long-lived perennial and a member of the citrus family (Rutaceae), is a tree with smooth gray bark and yellowish brown to olive-brown hairs on the tips of the branches. The species is distinguished from M. haupensis and other members of the genus by the distinct carpels present in the fruit, a hairless endocarp, a larger number of flowers per cluster, and the distribution of hairs on the underside of the leaves (Stone et al. 1999).

Additional information on the life history of this plant, reproductive cycles, longevity, specific environmental requirements, and limiting factors is generally unknown.

Historically, Melicope knudsenii was known only from the southeast slope of Haleakala on Maui and from Kauai (HINHP Database 2000). This species remains on Kauai, but is only found on privately owned lands at the following locations on Maui: Auwahi, Puu Mahoi, and the Kanaio area. There are three populations with a single individual at each location (GDSI 2000; HINHP Database 2000).

Melicope knudsenii grows on forested flats or talus slopes in Nestegis-Pleomele mixed open dry forests at elevations of about 450 to 1,220 m (1,480 to 4,000 ft) (Stone et al. 1999). Associated native plant species include Dodonaea viscosa, Osteomeles anthyllidifolia, Alphitonia ponderosa, Santalum ellipticum, and Xylosma hawaiiensis (HINHP Database 2000).

Threats to Melicope knudsenii include habitat degradation by alien animals, such as goats and pigs; reduced reproductive vigor; fire; natural aging and death; and invasive plant species, such as Pennisetum clandestinum (59 FR 9304; USFWS 1995a).

Melicope mucronulata

Melicope mucronulata, a long-lived perennial of the citrus family (Rutaceae), is a small tree up to 4 m (13 ft) tall with oval to elliptic-oval leaves, 8 to 16 cm (3 to 6.5 in.) long and 3.5 to 6.5 cm (1.5 to 2.5 in.) wide. This species is distinguished from others in the genus by the growth habit, the number of flowers in each flower cluster, the size and shape of the fruit, and the degree of hairiness of the leaves and fruit walls (Stone et al. 1999).

Additional information on the life history of this plant, reproductive cycles, longevity, specific environmental requirements, and limiting factors is generally unknown (USFWS 1997).

First discovered in 1920 in Kanaio, East Maui, Melicope mucronulata was not relocated until 1983 when it was reported from State land with an unknown number of plants. This species was also found two years later on East Molokai (Stone et al. 1999; GDSI 2000; HINHP Database 2000).

Melicope mucronulata typically grows on steep, west- or north-facing, dry to mesic, forested lowland slopes at elevations of 670 to 1,070 m (2,200 to 3,500 ft) (HINHP Database 2000). Associated native species include Dodonaea viscosa, Metrosideros polymorpha, Styphelia tameiameiae, and Dubautia linearis (na ena e) (USFWS 1997).

The major threat to the continued existence of the only known population of Melicope mucronulata on Maui is the risk of extinction from a random environmental event. Habitat degradation by goats and pigs, predation by goats, and competition with alien plants, particularly Melinis minutiflora, also pose immediate threats to this species (57 FR 20772; USFWS 1997).

Neraudia sericea

Neraudia sericea, a short-lived perennial member of the nettle family (Urticaceae), is a 3 to 5 m (10 to 16 ft) tall shrub with densely hairy branches. The elliptic or oval leaves have smooth margins or slightly toothed margins on young leaves. The upper leaf surface is moderately hairy and the lower leaf surface is densely covered with irregularly curved, silky gray to white hairs along the veins. The male flowers may be stalkless or have short stalks. The female flowers are stalkless and have a densely hairy calyx that is either toothed, collar-like, or divided into narrow unequal segments. The fruits are achenes with the apical section separated from the basal portion by a deep constriction. Seeds are oval with a constriction across the upper half. N. sericea differs from the other four closely related species of this endemic Hawaiian genus by the density, length, color, and posture of the hairs on the lower leaf surface and by its mostly entire leaf margins (Wagner et al. 1999).

Additional information on the life history of this plant, reproductive cycles, longevity, specific environmental requirements, and limiting factors is generally unknown (USFWS 1999).

Neraudia sericea was known historically from Molokai, Lanai, Olowalu Valley on West Maui, the southern slopes of Haleakala on East Maui, and from Kahoolawe (HINHP Database 2000). Currently, this species is known from Molokai and Maui. On Maui, three populations totaling more than four individuals are found in Pohakea Gulch (West Maui) and in Manawainui and Kamole Gulches (East Maui). These populations occur on State and privately owned lands (GDSI 2000; HINHP Database 2000; M. Kaiaokamelie, in litt. 2000).

Neraudia sericea generally occurs in lowland dry to mesic Metrosideros polymorpha-Dodonaea viscosa-Styphelia tameiameiae shrubland or forest or Acacia koa forest between 670 and 1,480 m (2,200 and 4,850 ft) in elevation (Wagner et al. 1999; HINHP Database 2000; M. Bruegmann in litt. 1995). Other associated plant species include Huperzia mannii (NCN), Urera glabra (opuhe), Cyrtandra oxybapha (haiwale), Cyrtandra platyphylla, Sida fallax, Diospyros sp., Bobea sp., Coprosma sp., and Hedyotis sp. (HINHP Database 2000; M. Bruegmann in litt. 1995).

The primary threats to Neraudia sericea on Maui are habitat degradation by feral pigs and goats; competition with the alien plants, Melinus minutiflora, Pennisetum clandestinum, Holcus lanatus, Cymbopogon refractus (barbwire grass), and nonnative Eragrostis sp. (love grass); and a risk of extinction due to random environmental events (59 FR 56333; USFWS 1999).

Peucedanum sandwicense

Peucedanum sandwicense, a member of the parsley family (Apiaceae), is a short-lived, parsley-scented, sprawling herb. Hollow stems arise from a short, vertical, perennial stem with several fleshy roots. This species is the only member of the genus in the Hawaiian Islands (Constance and Affolter 1999).

Additional information on the life history of this plant, reproductive cycles, longevity, specific environmental requirements, and limiting factors is generally unknown (USFWS 1995a).

Historically and currently, Peucedanum sandwicense is known from Molokai, Maui, and Kauai (HINHP Database 2000). Discoveries in 1990 extended the known distribution of this species to the island of Oahu (USFWS 1995a). A population is known from State-owned Keopuka Islet, off the coast of Maui with a total of between 20-30 individuals (GDSI 2000; HINHP Database 2000).

This species grows in cliff habitats from sea level to above 900 m (2,950 ft) (Constance and Affolter 1999) and is associated with native species such as Chamaesyce sp. (akoko), Eragrostis sp., Diospyros sp., and Metrosideros polymorpha (USFWS 1995a; HINHP Database 2000).

Competition with introduced plants is the major threat to Peucedanum sandwicense on Keopuka Rock (59 FR 9304; USFWS 1995a).

Phlegmariurus mannii

Phlegmariurus mannii, a short-lived member of the clubmoss family (Lycopodiaceae), is a hanging epiphyte (growing on the outside of other plants instead of being rooted in the ground) with clustered, delicate red stems and forked reproductive spikes; these traits distinguish it from others in the genus in Hawaii (Degener and Degener 1959; St. John 1981; Wagner and Wagner 1992).

Additional information on the life history of this plant, reproductive cycles, longevity, specific environmental requirements, and limiting factors is generally unknown (USFWS 1997).

Historically, Phlegmariurus mannii was known from Kauai, West Maui (Haelaau and Hanaula), and the Island of Hawaii (HINHP Database 2000). Currently, this species is found on Maui and Hawaii. On Maui, this species is now known on State and private lands from Kaupo, Nuanualoa Stream, and Manawainui on East Maui; and from Lihau and Puu Kukui on West Maui (GDSI 2000; HINHP Database 2000). There are five populations with fewer than 300 individuals total (HINHP Database 2000).

On Maui, Phlegmariurus mannii typically grows in moist protected gulches on the native tree species Metrosideros polymorpha, and Acacia koa, in mesic to wet montane M. polymorpha-A. koa forests at elevations of 900 to 1,600 m (2,950 to 5,250 ft) (HINHP Database 2000). Associated native species include Thelypteris sp., Athyrium sp., Styphelia tameiameiae, Cyanea sp., Machaerina sp., Cyrtandra sp., Sadleria sp., Vaccinium sp., Dodonaea viscosa, Astelia menziesiana (kaluaha), Coprosma sp., Cheirodendron trigynum, Ilex anomala, and Myrsine sp. (HINHP Database 2000).

The primary reasons for the endangerment of this species are habitat alteration by goats, cattle and pigs, and the impacts of alien plant species. Additionally, small population sizes also make the species subject to extinction due to random environmental events (57 FR 20772; USFWS 1997).

Phyllostegia mollis

Phyllostegia mollis, a short-lived member of the mint family (Lamiaceae), grows as a nearly erect, densely hairy, nonaromatic, perennial herb. Leaves are oval in outline with rounded teeth. Flowers, usually in groups of 6, are spaced along a stem; there are 2 shorter flowering stems directly below the main stem. The flowers have fused sepals and white petals fused into a tube and flaring into a smaller upper and a larger lower lip. Fruits are fleshy, dark green to black nutlets. A suite of technical characteristics concerning the kind and amount of hair, the number of flowers in a cluster, and details of the various plant parts separate this species from other members of the genus (Wagner et al. 1999).

Individual Phyllostegia mollis plants live for approximately five years. The species is known to flower in late winter and spring. Additional information on the life history of this plant, reproductive cycles, specific environmental requirements, and limiting factors is generally unknown (USFWS 1998b).

Historically, Phyllostegia mollis was known from Oahu, Molokai, and East Maui (Wagner et al. 1999, HINHP Database 2000). Currently, this species is only known from Oahu and Maui. On East Maui, a single population of an unknown number of individuals remains on State and private lands in Waiopai Gulch (GDSI 2000; HINHP Database 2000).

Phyllostegia mollis typically grows on steep slopes and in gulches in diverse mesic to wet forests at an elevation of 450 to 1,830 m (1,480 to 6,000 ft) (Wagner et al. 1999). Associated plants include ferns, Psychotria sp., and Pisonia sp. (papala kepau) (HINHP Database 2000).

The major threats to Phyllostegia mollis are competition from the alien plant species Rubus sp. and Schinus terebinthifolius; and a risk of extinction of the only known population of this species on Maui due to random environmental events (56 FR 55770; USFWS 1998b).

Plantago princeps

Plantago princeps, a short-lived member of the plantain family (Plantaginaceae), is a small shrub or robust perennial herb. This species differs from other native members of the genus in Hawaii by its large branched stems, flowers at nearly right angles to the axis of the flower cluster, and fruits that break open at a point two-thirds from the base. The four varieties, anomala, laxiflora, longibracteata, and princeps, are distinguished by the branching and pubescence of the stems; the size, pubescence, and venation of the leaves; the density of the inflorescence; and the orientation of the flowers (Wagner et al. 1999).

Little is known about the life history of this plant. Reproductive cycles, longevity, specific environmental requirements, and limiting factors are generally unknown. However, individuals have been observed in fruit from April through September (USFWS 1999).

Plantago princeps is historically and currently found on Kauai, Oahu, Molokai, and Maui. It is no longer extant on the Island of Hawaii. Plantago princeps var. anomala is currently known from Kauai and Oahu; var. longibracteata is known from Kauai and Oahu; var. princeps is known from Oahu; and var. laxiflora is known from Molokai and Maui. On Maui, there are five populations of Plantago princeps var. laxiflora, with a total of 67 individuals, on State, Federal and privately owned lands. This variety is found on East Maui at Koolau Gap, Kaupo Gap, and Kipahulu Valley, and on West Maui in Iao Valley and Kauaula Valley (USFWS 1999; GDSI 2000; HINHP Database 2000).

On Maui, Plantago princeps var. laxiflora is typically found on basalt cliffs in Metrosideros polymorpha lowland wet forest or Acacia koa-M. polymorpha montane wet forest or M. polymorpha montane wet shrubland, from 400 to 2,050 m (1,300 to 6,700 ft) elevation (Wagner et al. 1999). Associated plant species include Eragrostis variabilis, Hedyotis formosa, and Dubautia plantaginea spp. humilis (USFWS 1999; HINHP Database 2000).

The primary threats to Plantago princeps var. laxiflora on Maui are herbivory and habitat degradation by feral pigs and goats, and competition with various alien plant species (59 FR 56333; USFWS 1999).

Platanthera holochila

Platanthera holochila, a short-lived, perennial member of the orchid family (Orchidaceae), is an erect, deciduous herb. The stems arise from underground tubers, the pale green leaves are lance to egg-shaped and the greenish-yellow flowers occur in open spikes. This is the only species of this genus that occurs in the Hawaiian Islands (Wagner et al. 1999).

Little is known about the life history of this plant. Reproductive cycles, longevity, specific environmental requirements, and limiting factors are unknown.

Historically, Platanthera holochila was known from Maui, Oahu, Molokai, and Kauai (HINHP Database 2000). Currently, Platanthera holochila is extant on Kauai, Molokai, and Maui (HINHP Database 2000). On Maui, three populations with 28 individuals are reported on State and privately owned lands from Hanaula and the Kapaloa Gulch rim on West Maui, and from Koolau Gap on East Maui (GDSI 2000; HINHP Database 2000).

Platanthera holochila is found in Metrosideros polymorpha-Dicranopteris linearis montane wet forest or M. polymorpha mixed montane bog or mesic scrubby M. polymorpha forest between 1,050-2,120 m (3,440-6,960 ft) elevation. Associated native plants include Cibotium sp., Coprosma ernodeoides (nene), Oreobolus furcatus (NCN), Styphelia tameiameiae, Wikstroemia sp., Scaevola chamissoniana (naupaka kuahiwi), Sadleria sp., Lythrum maritimum (pukamole), Deschampsia sp., Metrosideros polymorpha, Luzula hawaiiensis (wood rush), Sisyrinchium acre (Maui u la ili), Broussaisia arguta, Clermontia sp., Lycopodium cernuum (wawae iole), Dubautia scabra (na ena e), Polypodium pellucidum, Gahnia gahniiformis (NCN), and Vaccinium reticulatum (61 FR 53108; USFWS 1999).

The primary threats to Platanthera holochila on Maui are habitat degradation and/or destruction by feral pigs; competition with alien plants; and a risk of extinction on Maui from naturally occurring events and/or reduced reproductive vigor, due to the small number of remaining populations and individuals. Predation by slugs may also be a potential threat to this species (61 FR 53108; USFWS 1999).

Pteris lidgatei

Pteris lidgatei, a short-lived member of the maidenhair fern family (Adiantaceae), is a coarse perennial herb, 0.5 to 1 m (1.6 to 3.3 ft) tall. It has a horizontal rhizome 1.5 cm (0.6 in.) thick and at least 10 cm (3.9 in.) long when mature. The fronds, including the leaf stalks, are 60 to 95 cm (24 to 37 in.) long and 20 to 45 cm (8 to 18 in.) wide. The leafy portion of the frond is oblong-deltoid to broadly ovate-deltoid, thick, brittle, and dark gray-green. The sori are apparently marginal in position, either fused into long linear sori, or more typically separated into distinct shorter sori, with intermediate conditions being common (Wagner 1949). P. lidgatei can be distinguished from other species of Pteris in the Hawaiian Islands by the texture of its fronds and the tendency of the sori along the leaf margins to be broken into short segments instead of being fused into continuous marginal sori (Wagner and Wagner 1992).

Additional information on the life history of this plant, reproductive cycles, longevity, specific environmental requirements, and limiting factors is generally unknown (USFWS 1998a).

Historically, Pteris lidgatei was found on Oahu, Molokai, and Waihee on West Maui (HINHP Database 2000). Currently, this species is known from Oahu and Maui. Two populations with approximately 20 individuals occur on Maui, one population on privately owned land in Kahuaula Valley and the other population on State owned land near Kahakuloa Stream (GDSI 2000; HINHP Database 2000).

This species grows on steep stream banks between 915 to 1,070 m (3,000 to 3,500 ft) elevation in wet Metrosideros polymorpha-Dicranopteris linearis montane forest with mosses and other ferns, including Cibotium chamissoi (hapuu), Dicranopteris linearis, Elaphoglossum crassifolium (ekaha), Sadleria squarrosa (amau), and Sphenomeris chusana (palaa) (HINHP Database 2000).

The primary threats to Pteris lidgatei on Maui are the alien plant Clidemia hirta, habitat destruction by feral pigs, and a risk of extinction due to random environmental events (59 FR 49025; USFWS 1998a).

Sanicula purpurea

Sanicula purpurea, a short-lived member of the parsley family (Apiaceae), is a stout perennial herb, 8 to 36 cm (3 to 14 in.) tall, arising from a massive perennial stem. The stems are tufted and branched, with the lower portion of the stem lying close to the ground, while the upper portion rises. The basal leaves are numerous and leathery in texture and are kidney-shaped or circular to egg-heart-shaped, with three to seven lobes. The leaf lobes are circular to inversely egg-shaped. The leaf veins are impressed on the upper surface and prominent on the lower surface. The leaf margins bear short, sharp teeth. The basal leaf stalks are slender and abruptly sheathed at the base. The leaves are palmately three-to five-lobed. The small purple, or cream-colored with a purple tinge, flowers 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. Below the inflorescence is a series of about ten oblong or inversely lance-shaped bracts. 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 1999).

Additional information on the life history of this plant, reproductive cycles, longevity, specific environmental requirements, and limiting factors is generally unknown (USFWS 1999).

Historically and currently, Sanicula purpurea is known from Oahu and West Maui (HINHP Database 2000). On West Maui, four populations totaling between 130 and 250 individuals are currently known on State and private lands in Keahikauo, Eke Crater, Violet Lake, and Puu Kukui (GSDI 2000; HINHP Database 2000).

This species typically grows in open Metrosideros polymorpha mixed montane bogs between 1,000 and 1,620 m (3,280 and 5,330 ft) elevation (HINHP Database 2000). Associated plant taxa include Styphelia tameiameiae, Gahnia beechyi (NCN), Geranium humile (nohoanu), Myrsine vaccinioides (kolea), Viola mauiensis (pamakani), Argyroxiphium caliginis (eke silversword), Plantago pachyphylla (laukahi kuahiwi), Lycopodium sp., Argyroxiphium grayanum, Lagenifera mauiensis (howaiaulu), Machaerina sp., and Oreobolus furcatus (HINHP Database 2000).

Habitat degradation by feral pigs, a risk of extinction due to random environmental events, and/or reduced reproductive vigor due to the small number of existing populations are the major threats to Sanicula purpurea (61 FR 53108; USFWS 1999; HINHP Database 2000).

Sesbania tomentosa

Sesbania tomentosa, a short-lived member of the legume family (Fabaceae), is typically a sprawling shrub, but may also be a small tree. Each compound leaf consists of 18 to 38 oblong to elliptic leaflets which are usually sparsely to densely covered with silky hairs. The flowers are salmon tinged with yellow, orange-red, scarlet or rarely, pure yellow. S. tomentosa is the only endemic Hawaiian species in the genus, differing from the naturalized S. sesban by the color of the flowers, the longer petals and calyx, and the number of seeds per pod (Geesink et al. 1999).

The pollination biology of Sesbania tomentosa is being studied by David Hopper, a graduate student in the Department of Zoology at the University of Hawaii at Manoa. His preliminary findings suggest that although many insects visit Sesbania flowers, the majority of successful pollination is accomplished by native bees of the genus Hylaeus and that populations at Kaena Point on Oahu are probably pollinator limited. Flowering at Kaena Point is highest during the winter-spring rains, and gradually declines throughout the rest of the year (USFWS 1999). Other aspects of this plant's life history are unknown.

Currently, Sesbania tomentosa occurs on at least six of the eight main Hawaiian Islands (Kauai, Oahu, Molokai, Kahoolawe, Maui, and Hawaii) and in the Northwestern Hawaiian Islands (Nihoa and Necker). It is no longer extant on Niihau and Lanai (59 FR 56333; USFWS 1999; GDSI 2000; HINHP Database 2000). On Maui, S. tomentosa is known from seven populations with a total of 83 individuals. The populations are located on State-leased land at Kanaio Training Area on East Maui; and on State and privately owned lands at Olowalu Canyon, Mokolea Point, Kahakuloa, Nakalele Point, and Poelua Bay on West Maui(GDSI 2000; HINHP Database 2000; B. Hobdy in litt. 2000). Off the south central coast of Kahoolawe, approximately 100 individuals of S. tomentosa are found on a small islet, Puu Koae, a State-owned seabird sanctuary (USFWS 1999; HINHP Database 2000).

Sesbania tomentosa is found in Scaevola sericea coastal dry shrublands on windswept slopes, sea cliffs and cinder slopes between sea level and 580 m (1,900 ft) elevation (HINHP Database 2000). Associated plant species include Lipochaeta integrifolia, Jacquemontia ovalifolia ssp. sandwicensis (pa uohi iaka), Rhynchelytrum repens, Sida fallax, and Dodonaea viscosa (USFWS 1999; HINHP Database 2000).

The primary threats to Sesbania tomentosa on Maui are habitat degradation caused by competition with various alien plant species such as Lantana camara, Waltheria sp., and grass species; feral cattle; lack of adequate pollination; seed predation by rats, mice and, potentially, alien insects; fire; and destruction by off-road vehicles and other human disturbances (59 FR 56333; USFWS 1999). Threats to Sesbania tomentosa on Puu Koae include habitat degradation caused by competition with various alien plant species, erosion, and trampling by cats and seabirds (P. Higashino, pers. comm. 2000).

Spermolepis hawaiiensis

Spermolepis hawaiiensis, a member of the parsley family (Apiaceae), is a slender annual herb with few branches. Its leaves, dissected into narrow, lance-shaped divisions, are oblong to somewhat oval in outline and grow on stalks. Flowers are arranged in a loose, compound umbrella-shaped inflorescence arising from the stem, opposite the leaves. Spermolepis hawaiiensis is the only member of the genus native to Hawaii. It is distinguished from other native members of the family by being a nonsucculent annual with an umbrella-shaped inflorescence (Constance and Affolter 1999).

Little is known about the life history of Spermolepis hawaiiensis. Reproductive cycles, longevity, specific environmental requirements, and limiting factors are unknown (USFWS 1999).

Historically, Spermolepis hawaiiensis was known from the islands of Kauai, Oahu, Lanai, and Hawaii (HINHP Database 2000). Currently, it is extant on Kauai, Oahu, Molokai, Lanai, West Maui, and Hawaii (59 FR 56333; GDSI 2000; HINHP Database 2000). On Maui, there are three known populations with hundreds to thousands of individuals on State owned lands in Kuia NAR and Kanaio NAR, and on privately owned land in Lihau (USFWS 1999; GDSI 2000; HINHP Database 2000; C. Chimera, pers. comm. 2000).

Spermolepis hawaiiensis is known from shady spots in Dodonaea viscosa lowland dry shrubland, at elevations from 300 to 550 m (980 to 1,800 ft). Associated plant species include Eragrostis variabilis, Wikstroemia sp., Erythrina sandwicensis, Diospyros sp., Pleomele sp., Lipochaeta livarum, Sida fallax, Myoporum sandwicensis, Santalum ellipticum, and Heteropogon contortus (USFWS 1999; HINHP Database 2000; C. Chimera, pers. comm. 2000).

The primary threats to Spermolepis hawaiiensis on Maui are habitat degradation by feral goats, pigs, and axis deer; competition with various alien plants, such as Rhynchelytrum repens and Lantana camara; and erosion, landslides, and rockslides due to natural weathering which result in the death of individual plants, as well as habitat destruction (59 FR 56333; USFWS 1999).

Vigna o-wahuensis

Vigna o-wahuensis, a member of the legume family (Fabaceae), is a slender, twining, long-lived perennial herb with fuzzy stems. Each leaf is made up of three leaflets which vary in shape from round to linear, and are sparsely or moderately covered with coarse hairs. Flowers, in clusters of one to four, have thin, translucent, pale yellow or greenish yellow petals. The two lowermost petals are fused and appear distinctly beaked. The sparsely hairy calyx has asymmetrical lobes. The fruits are long slender pods that may or may not be slightly inflated and contain 7 to 15 gray to black seeds. This species differs from others in the genus by its thin yellowish petals, sparsely hairy calyx, and thin pods which may or may not be slightly inflated (Geesink et al. 1999).

Additional information on the life history of this plant, reproductive cycles, longevity, specific environmental requirements, and limiting factors is generally unknown (USFWS 1999).

Historically, Vigna o-wahuensis was known from Niihau, Oahu, and on East Maui in Makawao, Waiakoa, and Haleakala, and at an unspecified site on West Maui (HINHP Database 2000). Currently, Vigna o-wahuensis is known from the islands of Molokai, Lanai, Kahoolawe, Maui, and Hawaii. There are no currently known populations on Niihau or Oahu (HINHP Database 2000). On the State-owned island of Kahoolawe, there are a total of three populations with an unknown number of individuals in the Makaalae/Lua Kealialalo area at 140 m (460 ft) elevation, the Puhi a Nanue area near a tidal pond, and on Lua Makika (GDSI 2000; HINHP Database 2000). On Maui, there is a single population of 2 individuals on State owned land in the Kanaio Beach area of East Maui (GDSI 2000; C. Chimera, pers. comm. 2000)

On Kahoolawe, Vigna o-wahuensis occurs in dry to mesic grassland and shrubland from 10 to 140 m (30 to 460 ft) in elevation (Geesink et al. 1999; HINHP Database 2000). Associated plant species include Sida fallax, Chenopodium sp., Dubautia menziesii, and Osteomeles anthyllidifolia (HINHP Database 2000). On Maui, Vigna o-wahuensis occurs in dry forests around 12 m (40 ft) elevation (C. Chimera, pers. comm. 2000). Associated plant species on Maui include Dodonaea viscosa, Chamaesyce sp., Nothocestrum latifolium, and Nesoluma polynesicum (C. Chimera, pers. comm. 2000).

The primary threats to Vigna o-wahuensis on Kahoolawe are competition with various alien plant species; fire; and a risk of extinction due to random environmental events, and/or reduced reproductive vigor due to the small number of existing populations and individuals (59 FR 56333; USFWS 1999). The primary threats to this species on Maui are competition with the alien plant species Lantana camara and Cenchrus ciliaris (buffelgrass) and herbivory by axis deer and goats.

Zanthoxylum hawaiiense

Zanthoxylum hawaiiense, a long-lived perennial, is a medium-size tree with pale to dark gray bark, and lemon-scented leaves in the rue family (Rutaceae). Alternate leaves are composed of three small triangular-oval to lance-shaped, toothed leaves (leaflets) with surfaces usually without hairs. Zanthoxylum hawaiiense is distinguished from other Hawaiian members of the genus by several characters: three leaflets all of similar size, one joint on lateral leaf stalk, and sickle-shape fruits with a rounded tip (Stone et al. 1999).

Additional information on the life history of this plant, reproductive cycles, longevity, specific environmental requirements, and limiting factors is generally unknown (USFWS 1996).

Historically, Zanthoxylum hawaiiense was known from the islands of Kauai, Molokai, Lanai, Hawaii, and southern and southwestern slopes of Haleakala on Maui. Currently, Zanthoxylum hawaiiense is extant on Kauai, Molokai, Maui, and Hawaii. This species is found on eastern Maui in three populations (unknown number of individuals) on private and State lands at Auwahi, Lualailua, and Kanaio (GDSI 2000; HINHP Database 2000).

Zanthoxylum hawaiiense is reported from open lowland dry or mesic Nestegis sandwicensis-Pleomele auwahiensis forests, or montane dry forest, at elevations between 550 and 1,740 m (1,800 and 5,710 ft) (59 FR 10305; Stone et al. 1999; HINHP Database 2000). Associated species include Metrosideros polymorpha, Diospyros sandwicensis, Pisonia sp., Xylosma hawaiiensis, Santalum ellipticum, Alphitonia ponderosa, Osteomeles anthyllidifolia, Alectryon macrococcus, Charpentiera sp., Melicope sp., Dodonaea viscosa, Streblus pendulinus, Myrsine lanaiensis, and Sophora chrysophylla (HINHP Database 2000).

The threats to Zanthoxylum hawaiiense on Maui include browsing, grazing, and trampling by feral goats and cattle; competition with the alien plant species Melia azedarach (chinaberry), Lantana camara, and Pennisetum setaceum; fire; human disturbance; and risk of extinction from naturally occurring events and/or reduced reproductive vigor due to the small number of populations (59 FR 10305; USFWS 1996).

A summary of populations and landownership for the 55 plant species on Maui and Kahoolawe is given in Table 3.

Previous Federal Action

Federal action on these plants began as a result of Section 12 of the Act, which directed the Secretary of the Smithsonian Institution to prepare a report on plants considered to be endangered, threatened, or extinct in the United States. This report, designated as House Document No. 94-51, was presented to Congress on January 9, 1975. In that document, Alectryon macrococcus (as Alectryon macrococcum var. macrococcum and Alectryon mahoe), Bonamia menziesii, Clermontia lindseyana, Colubrina oppositifolia, Cyanea glabra (as Cyanea scabra var. variabilis), Cyanea lobata (as Cyanea baldwinii), Cyanea mceldowneyi, Flueggea neowawraea (as Drypetes phyllanthoides), Geranium arboreum, Geranium multiflorum (as Geranium multiflorum var. multiflorum, var. obatifolium, and var. superbum), Hedyotis mannii (as Hedyotis thyrsoidea var. thyrsoidea), Hesperomannia arborescens (as Hesperomannia arborescens var. bushiana and var. swezeyi), Hesperomannia arbuscula, Hibiscus brackenridgei (as Hibiscus brackenridgei var. brackenridgei, var. mokuleianus, and var. “from Hawaii”), Ischaemum byrone, Melicope balloui (as Pelea balloui), Melicope knudsenii (as Pelea multiflora), Melicope ovalis (as Pelea ovalis), Neraudia sericea (as Neraudia kahoolawensis), Peucedanum sandwicense (as Peucedanum kauaiense), Phyllostegia mollis, Plantago princeps (as Plantago princeps var. elata, var. laxifolia, var. princeps), Remya mauiensis, Sesbania tomentosa (as Sesbania hobdyi and Sesbania tomentosa var. tomentosa), Vigna o-wahuensis (as Vigna sandwicensis var. heterophylla and var. sandwicensis), and Zanthoxylum hawaiiense (as Zanthoxylum hawaiiense var. citiodora), were considered to be endangered; Cyrtandra munroi, Diellia erecta, and Zanthoxylum hawaiiense (as Zanthoxylum hawaiiense var. hawaiiense and var. velutinosum) were considered to be threatened; and, Bidens micrantha ssp. kalealaha (as Bidens distans and Bidens micrantha spp. kalealaha), Ctenitis squamigera, Diplazium molokaiense, Hedyotis coriacea, Melicope knudsenii (as Pelea knudsenii and Pelea tomentosa), Melicope mucronulata (as Pelea mucronulata), Phlegmariurus mannii (as Lycopodium mannii), Plantago princeps (as Plantago princeps var. acaulis, var. denticulata, and var. queleniana), Pteris lidgatei, and Tetramolopium capillare were considered extinct. On July 1, 1975, the Service published 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 gave notice of its intention to review the status of the plant taxa named therein. As a result of that review, on June 16, 1976, the Service published a proposed rule in the Federal Register (41 FR 24523) to determine endangered status pursuant to Section 4 of the Act for approximately 1,700 vascular plant taxa, including all of the above taxa considered to be endangered or thought to be extinct except for Cyanea glabra and Cyrtandra munroi; additionally, Argyroxiphium sandwicense ssp. macrocephalum (as Argyroxiphium macrocephalum) appeared in the 1976 proposed rule as endangered. The list of 1,700 plant taxa was assembled on the basis of comments and data received by the Smithsonian Institution and the Service in response to House Document No. 94-51 and the July 1, 1975, Federal Register publication.

General comments received in response to the 1976 proposal are summarized in an April 26, 1978, Federal Register publication (43 FR 17909). In 1978, amendments to the Act required that all proposals over two years old be withdrawn. A one-year grace period was given to proposals already over two years old. On December 10, 1979, the Service published a notice in the Federal Register (44 FR 70796) withdrawing the portion of the June 16, 1976, proposal that had not been made final, along with four other proposals that had expired. The Service published updated notices of review for plants on December 15, 1980 (45 FR 82479), September 27, 1985 (50 FR 39525), February 21, 1990 (55 FR 6183), September 30, 1993 (58 FR 51144), February 28, 1996 (61 FR 7596), and September 19, 1997 (62 FR 49398). A summary of the status categories for the 55 plant species in the 1980-1997 notices of review can be found in Table 4(a). The 55 species were listed as endangered or threatened between 1991 and 1999. A summary of the listing actions can be found in Table 4(b).

Federal Register Notice of Review

1980: 45 FR 82479

1985: 50 FR 39525

1990: 55 FR 6183

1993: 58 FR 51144

1996: 61 FR 7596

1997: 62 FR 49398

Section 4(a)(3) of the Act, as amended, and implementing regulations (50 CFR 424.12) require that, to the maximum extent prudent and determinable, the Secretary designate critical habitat at the time the species is determined to be endangered or threatened. Our 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. At the time each plant was listed, we determined that designation of critical habitat was prudent for six of these plants (Clermontia samuelii, Cyanea copelandii ssp. haleakalaensis, Cyanea glabra, Cyanea hamatiflora ssp. hamatiflora, Dubautia plantaginea ssp. humilis, and Kanaloa kahoolawensis) and not prudent for the other 49 plants because it would not benefit the plant and/or would increase the degree of threat to the species.

The not prudent determinations were challenged in Conservation Council for Hawaii v. Babbitt. 2 F. Supp. 2d 1280 (D. Haw. 1998). On March 9, 1998, the United States District Court for the District of Hawaii directed us to review the prudency determinations for 245 listed plant species in Hawaii, including 49 of these 55 species. Among other things, the court held that in most cases we did not sufficiently demonstrate that the species are threatened by human activity or that such threats would increase with the designation of critical habitat. Id. At 1283—85. The court also held that we failed to balance any risks of designating critical habitat against any benefits. Id. For example, the court suggested that, before concluding critical habitat would not be prudent, the Service should consider whether designation might prevent an inadvertent act of destruction by educating the public.

Regarding our determination that designating critical habitat would have no additional benefits to the species above and beyond those already provided through the section 7 consultation requirement of the Act, the court ruled that we failed to consider the specific effect of the consultation requirement on each species Id. at 1286-88. In addition, the court stated that we did not consider benefits outside of the consultation requirements. In the court's view, these potential benefits include substantive and procedural protections. The court held that substantively, designation establishes a “uniform protection plan” prior to consultation and indicates where compliance with section 7 of the Act is required. Procedurally, the court stated that the designation of critical habitat educates the public and State and local governments and affords them an opportunity to participate in the designation Id. at 1288. The court also stated that private lands may not be excluded from critical habitat designation even though section 7 requirements apply only to Federal agencies. In addition to the potential benefit of informing the public and State and local governments of the listing and of the areas that are essential to the species' conservation, the court found that there may be Federal activity on the private property in the future, even though no such activity may be occurring there at the present Id. at 1285-88.

On August 10, 1998, the court ordered us to publish proposed critical habitat designations or non-designations for at least 100 species by November 30, 2000, and to publish proposed designations or non-designations for the remaining 145 species by April 30, 2002. 24 F. Supp. 2d 1074.

At the time we listed Clermontia samuelii, Cyanea copelandii ssp. haleakalaensis, Cyanea glabra, Cyanea hamatiflora ssp. hamatiflora, Dubautia plantaginea ssp. humilis, and Kanaloa kahoolawensis (64 FR 48307) we determined that designation of critical habitat was prudent and that we would develop critical habitat designations for these six taxa, along with four others, at the same time we developed designations for the 245 Hawaiian plant species. This timetable was challenged in Conservation Council for Hawaii v. Babbitt, Civ. No. 99-00283 HG (D. Haw. Aug. 19, 1999, Feb. 16, 2000, and March 28, 2000). The court agreed, however, that it was reasonable for us to integrate these ten Maui Nui (Maui, Lanai, Molokai, and Kahoolawe) plant taxa into the schedule established for designating critical habitat for the other 245 Hawaiian plants, and ordered us to publish proposed critical habitat designations for the ten Maui Nui species by November 30, 2000, and to publish final critical habitat designations by November 30, 2001. This notice responds to the court orders.

On November 30, 1998, we published a notice in the Federal Register requesting public comments on our reevaluation of whether designation of critical habitat is prudent for the 245 Hawaiian plants at issue (63 FR 65805). The comment period closed on March 1, 1999, and was reopened from March 24, 1999, to May 24, 1999 (64 FR 14209). We received over 100 responses from individuals, non-profit organizations, the State of Hawaii's Division of Forestry and Wildlife, county governments, and Federal agencies (U.S. Department of Defense-Army, Navy, Air Force). Only a few responses offered information on the status of individual plant species or on current management actions for one or more of the 245 Hawaiian plants. While some respondents expressed support for the designation of critical habitat for 245 Hawaiian plants, more than 80 percent opposed the designation of critical habitat for these plants. In general, these respondents opposed designation because they believed it will cause economic hardship, chill cooperative projects, polarize relationships with hunters, or potentially increase trespass or vandalism on private lands. In addition, commenters also cited a lack of information on the biological and ecological needs of these plants which, they suggest, may lead to designation based on guesswork. The respondents who supported the designation of critical habitat cited that designation would provide a uniform protection plan for the Hawaiian Islands; promote funding for management of these plants; educate the public and State government; and protect partnerships with landowners and build trust.

On December 29, 1999, we mailed letters to over 130 landowners on the islands of Maui and Kahoolawe requesting any information considered germane to the management of any of the 245 plants on his/her property, and containing a copy of the November 30, 1998, Federal Register notice, a map showing the general locations of the plants that may be on his/her property, and a handout containing general information on critical habitat. We received 20 written responses to our landowner mailing with varying types of information on their current land management activities. These responses included information on the following: fencing; weeding; access to hunters or limited hunting; ungulate control; scientific research; fire control; and propagation and/or planting of native plants. We held two open houses on the island of Maui, at the Lahaina Civic Center and the Wailuku Community Center, on January 11 and 12, 2000, respectively, to meet one-on-one with local landowners and other interested members of the public. A total of 30 people attended the two open houses.

On November 7, 2000, we published the first of the court-ordered prudency determinations and proposed critical habitat designations or non-designations for Kauai and Niihau plants (65 FR 66808). In that proposal, we determined that critical habitat was prudent for eleven species (Alectryon macrococcus, Bonamia menziesii, Centaurium sebaeoides, Flueggea neowawraea, Melicope knudsenii, Peucedanum sandwicense, Plantago princeps, Platanthera holochila, Sesbania tomentosa, Spermolepis hawaiiensis, and Zanthoxylum hawaiiense) from Kauai and/or Niihau that also occur on Maui and/or Kahoolawe.

Critical Habitat

Critical habitat is defined in section 3 of the Act as—(i) the specific areas within the geographic 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 considerations or protection; and (ii) specific areas outside the geographic 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 that are necessary to bring an endangered or a threatened species to the point at which listing under the Act is no longer necessary.

Critical habitat receives protection under section 7 of the Act through the prohibition against destruction or adverse modification of critical habitat with regard to actions carried out, funded, or authorized by a Federal agency. Section 7 also requires conferences on Federal actions that are likely to result in the destruction or adverse modification of proposed critical habitat. In our regulations at 50 CFR 402.02, we define destruction or adverse modification as “ * * * the direct or indirect alteration that appreciably diminishes the value of critical habitat for both the survival and recovery of a listed species. Such alterations include, but are not limited to, alterations adversely modifying any of those physical or biological features that were the basis for determining the habitat to be critical.” Aside from the added protection that may be provided under section 7, the Act does not provide other forms of protection to lands designated as critical habitat. Because consultation under section 7 of the Act does not apply to activities on private or other non-Federal lands that do not involve a Federal nexus, critical habitat designation would not afford any additional protections under the Act against such activities.

In order to be included in a critical habitat designation, the habitat must first be “essential to the conservation of the species.” Critical habitat designations identify, to the extent known using the best scientific and commercial data available, habitat areas that provide essential life cycle needs of the species (i.e., areas on which are found the primary constituent elements, as defined at 50 CFR 424.12(b)).

Section 4 requires that we designate critical habitat at the time of listing and based on what we know at the time of the designation. When we designate critical habitat at the time of listing or under short court-ordered deadlines, we will often not have sufficient information to identify all areas of critical habitat. We are required, nevertheless, to make a decision and thus must base our designations on what, at the time of designation, we know to be critical habitat.

Within the geographic area occupied by the species, we will designate only areas currently known to be essential. Essential areas should already have the features and habitat characteristics that are necessary to sustain the species. We will not speculate about what areas might be found to be essential if better information became available, or what areas may become essential over time. If the information available at the time of designation does not show that an area provides essential life cycle needs of the species, then the area should not be included in the critical habitat designation. Within the geographic area occupied by the species, we will not designate areas that do not now have the primary constituent elements , as defined at 50 CFR 424.12(b), that provide essential life cycle needs of the species.

Our regulations state that, “The Secretary shall designate as critical habitat areas outside the geographic area presently occupied by the species only when a designation limited to its present range would be inadequate to ensure the conservation of the species.” (50 CFR 424.12(e)). Accordingly, when the best available scientific and commercial data do not demonstrate that the conservation needs of the species require designation of critical habitat outside of occupied areas, we will not designate critical habitat in areas outside the geographic area occupied by the species.

The Service's Policy on Information Standards Under the Endangered Species Act, published in the Federal Register on July 1, 1994 (Vol. 59, p. 34271), provides criteria, establishes procedures, and provides guidance to ensure that decisions made by the Service represent the best scientific and commercial data available. It requires Service biologists, to the extent consistent with the Act and with the use of the best scientific and commercial data available, to use primary and original sources of information as the basis for recommendations to designate critical habitat. When determining which areas are critical habitat, a primary source of information should be the listing package for the species. Additional information may be obtained from a recovery plan, articles in peer-reviewed journals, conservation plans developed by states and counties, scientific status surveys and studies, and biological assessments or other unpublished materials (i.e., gray literature).

Habitat is often dynamic, and species may move from one area to another over time. Furthermore, we recognize that designation of critical habitat may not include all of the habitat areas that may eventually be determined to be necessary for the recovery of the species. For these reasons, all should understand that critical habitat designations do not signal that habitat outside the designation is unimportant or may not be required for recovery. Areas outside the critical habitat designation will continue to be subject to conservation actions that may be implemented under Section 7(a)(1) and to the regulatory protections afforded by the section 7(a)(2) jeopardy standard and the Section 9 take prohibition, as determined on the basis of the best available information at the time of the action. We specifically anticipate that federally funded or assisted projects affecting listed species outside their designated critical habitat areas may still result in jeopardy findings in some cases. Similarly, critical habitat designations made on the basis of the best available information at the time of designation will not control the direction and substance of future recovery plans, habitat conservation plans, or other species conservation planning efforts if new information available to these planning efforts calls for a different outcome.

A. Prudency Redetermination

Designation of critical habitat is not prudent when one or both of the following situations exist: (i) The species is threatened by taking or other human activity, and identification of critical habitat can be expected to increase the degree of such threat to the species; or (ii) such designation of critical habitat would not be beneficial to the species (50 CFR 424.12(a)(1)).

To determine whether critical habitat would be prudent for each of the 38 species discussed in this rule for which a prudency determination has not been made previously, we analyzed the potential threats and benefits for each species in accordance with the court's order. One species, Acaena exigua, known only from Kauai and Maui, is no longer extant in the wild. On Kauai, this species was only known from a collection by Heinrich Wawra between 1869-1870 (Wagner et al. 1999). Acaena exigua was last collected on West Maui between April 22-24, 1997; however, no individuals were seen in two subsequent visits (1998 and 1999) to the only known location (H. Oppenheimer and S. Perlman, pers. comm. 2000). In addition, this species is not known to be in storage or under propagation. Therefore, we believe this species may be extinct. Under these circumstances, we propose that designation of critical habitat for Acaena exigua is not prudent because such designation would be of no benefit to this species. If this species is rediscovered we may revise this proposal to incorporate or address new information as new data becomes available. See 16 U.S.C. 1532(5)(B); 50 CFR 424.12(f).

Due to low numbers of individuals and/or populations and their inherent immobility, the other 37 plants may be vulnerable to unrestricted collection, vandalism or disturbance. However, consistent with applicable regulations (50 CFR 424.12(a)(1)(i)) and the court's discussion of these regulations, we do not find that any of these species are currently threatened by taking or other human activity that would be exacerbated by the designation of critical habitat.

In the absence of finding that critical habitat would increase threats to a species, if there are any benefits to critical habitat designation, then a prudent finding is warranted. The potential benefits include: (1) Triggering section 7 consultation in new areas where it would not otherwise occur because, for example, it is or has become unoccupied or the occupancy is in question; (2) focusing conservation activities on the most essential areas; (3) providing educational benefits to State or county governments or private entities; and (4) preventing people from causing inadvertent harm to the species.

In the case of these 37 species, there would be some benefits to critical habitat. The primary regulatory effect of critical habitat is the section 7 requirement that Federal agencies refrain from taking any action that destroys or adversely affects critical habitat. At least fourteen of these species are reported from federally owned lands (Argyroxiphium sandwicense ssp. macrocephalum, Bidens micrantha ssp. kalealaha, Clermontia samuelii, Cyanea copelandii ssp. haleakalaensis, Cyanea hamatiflora ssp. hamatiflora, Geranium arboreum, Geranium multiflorum, Melicope balloui, Melicope ovalis, Plantago princeps, and Schiedea haleakalaensis) or lands under Federal jurisdiction (Sesbania tomentosa), or lands subject to federally funded actions such as the clearing of military ordinance on Kahoolawe (Kanaloa kahoolawensis, Sesbania tomentosa, and Vigna o-wahuensis) (see Table 3), where most actions would be subject to section 7. While a majority of these species are located exclusively on non-Federal lands with limited Federal activities, there could be Federal actions affecting these lands in the future. While a critical habitat designation for habitat currently occupied by these species would not be likely to change the section 7 consultation outcome because an action that destroys or adversely modifies such critical habitat would also be likely to result in jeopardy to the species, there may be instances where section 7 consultation would be triggered only if critical habitat were designated. There may also be some educational or informational benefits to the designation of critical habitat. Educational benefits include the notification of landowner(s), land managers, and the general public of the importance of protecting the habitat of these species and dissemination of information regarding their essential habitat requirements.

Therefore, we propose that critical habitat is prudent for 37 plant species: Argyroxiphium sandwicense ssp. macrocephalum, Bidens micrantha ssp. kalealaha, Cenchrus agrimonioides, Clermontia lindseyana, Clermontia oblongifolia ssp. mauiensis, Colubrina oppositifolia, Ctenitis squamigera, Cyanea grimesiana ssp. grimesiana, Cyanea lobata, Cyanea mceldowneyi, Cyrtandra munroi, Diellia erecta, Diplazium molokaiense, Geranium arboreum, Geranium multiflorum, Hedyotis coriacea, Hedyotis mannii, Hesperomannia arborescens, Hesperomannia arbuscula, Hibiscus brackenridgei, Ischaemum byrone, Lipochaeta kamolensis, Lysimachia lydgatei, Mariscus pennatiformis, Melicope adscendens, Melicope balloui, Melicope mucronulata, Melicope ovalis, Neraudia sericea, Phlegmariurus mannii, Phyllostegia mollis, Pteris lidgatei, Remya mauiensis, Sanicula purpurea, Schiedea haleakalensis, Tetramolopium capillare, and Vigna o-wahuensis.

Prudency determinations have previously been made for the other 17 species discussed in this proposed rule. Therefore, a critical habitat designation is prudent for 54 of the 69 plant species historically or currently found on Maui and Kahoolawe.

B. Primary Constituent Elements

In accordance with section 4(b)(2) of the Act and regulations at 50 CFR 424.12, in determining which areas to propose as critical habitat, we are required to base critical habitat determinations on the best scientific and commercial data available and to consider those physical and biological features that are essential to the conservation of the species and that may require special management considerations or protection. Such requirements include, but are not limited to, space for individual and population growth, and for normal behavior; food, water, air, light, minerals, or other nutritional or physiological requirements; cover or shelter; sites for breeding, reproduction, or rearing of offspring, germination, or seed dispersal; and habitats that are protected from disturbance or are representative of the historic geographical and ecological distributions of a species.

As described above in the discussion for each of the 54 species, very little is known about the specific physical and biological requirements of these species. The recovery plans that have been published for many of these species generally discuss management practices that are needed for the conservation of these species (e.g., rodent, invasive species, and ungulate control), as oppose to identifying essential areas need by the species. As a result, we are proposing to define the primary constituent elements on the basis of the habitat features of the areas in which the plant species are currently found, including the type of plant community and their physical location (e.g., steep rocky cliffs, talus slopes, stream banks) and elevation. Therefore, the descriptions of the physical elements of the locations of each of these species and the plant community associated with the species, as described in the Discussion of the Plant Taxa section above, constitute the primary constituent elements for these species.

C. Methods for Selection of Areas for Proposed Critical Habitat Designations

Critical habitat is defined as the specific areas within the geographic area occupied by the species, at the time it is listed in accordance with the provisions of section 4 of the Act, on which are found those physical or biological features (I) essential to the conservation of the species and (II) which may require special management considerations or protection (16 U.S.C. 1532(5)(A)(i)). As discussed above, although we have published recovery plans for most of these species, very little is known about the specific physical and biological requirements of most of these 54 species. However, given that all of these species are either threatened or endangered with extinction, we feel that all existing sites where these plants occur needs to be designated. Therefore, we have defined primary constituent elements based on the general habitat features of the areas in which they currently occur, such as the type of plant community the plants are growing in, their physical location (e.g., steep rocky cliffs, talus slopes, stream banks), and elevation. The areas we are proposing to designate as critical habitat provide some or all of the habitat components essential for the conservation of the 54 plant species.

Critical habitat may also include areas outside the geographic area presently occupied by a species upon a determination that such areas are essential to the conservation of the species (16 U.S.C. 1532(5)(A)(ii)). This may include, for example, potentially suitable unoccupied habitat that is important to the recovery of the species. However, we have not included such areas in the proposed designations for these 54 species because of our limited knowledge of the historical range (the geographical area outside the area presently occupied by the species), and our lack of more detailed information on the specific physical or biological features essential for the conservation of the species that would be needed, for instance, to determine where to reintroduce a species.

The historical (pre-1970) or even post-1970 records for a species may be based on herbarium specimens that contain only the most rudimentary collection information, such as only the name of the island from which the specimen was collected or a general place name (e.g., west Maui, Haleakala, above Lahaina). In the main Hawaiian Islands, climatic and ecological conditions such as rainfall, elevation, slope, and aspect, may vary dramatically within a relatively short distance. Therefore, a simple place name does not provide adequate information on the physical and biological features that may have occurred there or may occur there now.

The unpredictable distribution of Hawaiian plant species also makes it difficult to designate potentially suitable unoccupied habitat. For example, currently a species may be known from northern and southern (or eastern and western) locations on an island, but not from intervening locations in similar habitat. Based on the best available information, we are unable to determine whether a species once occurred in the intervening areas and disappeared from there prior to Polynesian or European times (thus never having been collected or documented there) or simply never occurred there.

The Service considers reintroduction (the planting of propagated individuals or seedlings into an area) to be an acceptable method to try to achieve plant species recovery. However, native plant reintroductions are difficult, and successful efforts are not common. We do not know enough about these 54 species to identify areas where reintroductions are likely to be successful. We will continue to support experimental efforts to reintroduce species that may eventually provide us with additional information on the physical and biological features essential to the conservation of these species, and thus, may eventually result in identification of unoccupied habitat for future revisions of the appropriate designations.

As required by the Act and regulations (section 4(b)(2) and 50 CFR 424.12), we used the best scientific information available to determine areas that contain those physical and biological features that are essential for the survival and recovery of the 54 plant species. This information included site-specific species information from the Hawaii Natural Heritage Program (HINHP) and our rare plant database, species information from the Center for Plant Conservation's (CPC) rare plant monitoring database housed at the University of Hawaii's Lyon Arboretum, recent biological surveys and reports, our recovery plans for 48 of these 54 species, discussions with botanical experts, and recommendations (see below) from the Hawaii and Pacific Plant Recovery Coordinating Committee (HPPRCC) (USFWS 1995a, 1995b, 1995c, 1996, 1997, 1998a, 1998b, 1999; HPPRCC 1998; HINHP Database 2000; S. Perlman, pers. comm. 2000; R. Hobdy, pers. comm. 2000; CPC in litt. 1999).

In 1994, the HPPRCC initiated an effort to identify and map habitat believed to be important for the recovery of 282 endangered and threatened Hawaiian plant species. The HPPRCC identified these areas on most of the islands in the Hawaiian chain, and in 1999, we published them in our Recovery Plan for the Multi-Island Plants (USFWS 1999). The HPPRCC expects there will be subsequent efforts to further refine the locations of important habitat areas and that new survey information or research findings may also lead to additional refinements (HPPRCC 1998). Because the HPPRCC identified essential habitat areas for all listed, proposed, and candidate plant species and evaluated species of concern to determine if essential habitat areas would provide for their habitat needs as well, the HPPRCC's mapping of habitat is distinct from the regulatory designation of critical habitat, as defined by the Act. While these habitat maps are a planning tool to focus conservation efforts on the areas that may be most important to the conservation of Hawaii's listed plant species, as well as other plant species of concern, it does not substitute for the more exacting regulatory process of designating critical habitat. Therefore, the proposed critical habitat designations in this proposed rule do not include all of the habitat, in particular unoccupied habitat, identified by the HPPRCC.

For these 54 plant species from Maui and Kahoolawe, currently occupied habitat was examined and critical habitat boundaries were delineated as multi-species units in such a way that locations with a high density of endangered plants could be depicted clearly. However, these multi-species critical habitat units were not homogenous or uniform in nature. Critical habitat units often encompassed a number of plant community types.

When developing critical habitat units, every current (post-1970) location of every plant specimen was delineated within a 586 m (1,924 ft) radius circle, in order to insure enough area to provide for the proper ecological functioning of the habitat immediately supporting the plant. Due to inaccuracies in mapping locations, it has been determined that the actual location of the plant specimen is within 536 m (1,760 ft) of the center of the delineated circle. The 536 m (1,760 ft) distance is consistent with standard mapping methodology for rare species used by the HINHP (1996). An additional 50 m (164 ft) included in the delineated circle to be consistent with the guidelines identified in the recovery plans for these species for minimum-sized exclosures for rare plants (USFWS 1994, 1995, 1996, 1998a, 1998b, 1999). In cases of isolated species' locations, an area with a radius of roughly 586 m (1,924 ft) is proposed as critical habitat (HINHP 1996; USFWS 1994, 1995, 1996, 1998a, 1998b, 1999).

In areas with multiple species locations, critical habitat units were developed as follows.

• Known current locations of each species were delineated using the guidelines explained above (Figure 1(a)).
• The perimeter boundaries of individual circular areas were connected to form unit area boundaries (Figure 1(b)).
• Unit area boundaries were delineated to follow significant topographic features (50 CFR 424.12(c)) such as coastlines, ridgelines, and valleys (Figure 1(c)).

This delineation method was used to facilitate identification of boundary lines and to aid in implementation of on-the-ground conservation measures. When delineating critical habitat units, we made an effort to avoid developed areas such as towns, agricultural lands, and other lands unlikely to contribute to the conservation of the 54 species. Existing features and structures within proposed areas, such as buildings, roads, aqueducts, telecommunications equipment, arboreta and gardens, heiaus (indigenous place of worship, shrine), and other man-made features, do not contain, and are not likely to develop, constituent elements. Therefore, these features or structures would not be included in the critical habitat designation.

All currently occupied sites containing one or more of the primary constituent elements were first evaluated to determine if the site was essential to the conservation of the listed plant species. If the site was considered essential to the conservation of any of these 54 plant species, the site was then examined to determine if additional special management considerations or protection is required above those currently provided. We reviewed all available management information on these plants at these sites, including published reports and surveys; annual performance and progress reports; management plans; grants; memoranda of understanding and cooperative agreements; State of Hawaii, Division of Forestry and Wildlife (DOFAW) planning documents; internal letters and memos; biological assessments and environmental impact statements; and section 7 consultations. Additionally, each public (i.e., county, state, or Federal government holdings) and private landowner on Maui and Kahoolawe with a known occurrence of one of the 54 species was contacted by mail. We reviewed all information received during the public comment period held in response to our landowner mailing and open houses held on Maui on January 11 and 12, 2000. When clarification was required on the information provided to us, we followed up with a telephone contact. Lastly, because of the large amount of land on Maui under State of Hawaii jurisdiction, we met with staff from the Maui DOFAW office to discuss their current management for the plants on their lands. In addition, we contacted the State's Department of Hawaiian Home Lands regarding management for the plants on lands under their jurisdiction.

Pursuant to the definition of critical habitat, an area must also require “special management considerations or protections.” This is a term that originates in the definition of critical habitat in section 3 of the Act. Adequate special management or protection is provided by a legally operative plan that addresses the maintenance and improvement of the essential elements and manages for the long-term conservation of the species. The Service considers a plan adequate when it meets all of the following three criteria: (1) The plan provides a conservation benefit to the species (i.e., the plan must maintain or provide for an increase in the species' population or the enhancement or restoration of its habitat within the area covered by the plan); (2) the plan provides assurances that the management plan will be implemented (i.e., those responsible for implementing the plan are capable of accomplishing the objectives, have an implementation schedule and/or have adequate funding for the management plan); and (3) the plan provides assurances the conservation plan will be effective (i.e., it identifies biological goals, has provisions for reporting progress, and is of a duration sufficient to implement the plan and achieves the plan's goals and objectives). If an area is covered by a plan that meets these criteria, it does not constitute critical habitat as defined by the Act.

In determining and weighing the relative significance of the threats that would need to be addressed in management plans or agreements, we considered the following:

• The factors that led to the listing of the species, as described in the final rules for listing each of the species. For all or nearly all endangered and threatened plants in Hawaii, the major threats include adverse impacts due to nonnative plant and animal species. Direct browsing, digging, and trampling by ungulates, including pigs, goats, cattle, sheep, and deer, and direct competition from nonnative plants have led to the decline of Hawaii's native flora (Smith 1985; Stone 1985; Wagner et al. 1985; Scott et al. 1986; Cuddihy and Stone 1990; Vitousek 1992; USFWS 1995, 1996a, 1996b, 1997, 1998, 1999; Loope in Mack et al. 1998). Ungulate activity in most areas results in an increase of nonnative plants because most of these nonnative plants are able to colonize newly disturbed areas more quickly and effectively than Hawaii's native plants (Cuddihy and Stone 1990; Mack 1992; Scott et al. 1986; Smith 1985; Tunison et al. 1992; USFWS 1995, 1996a, 1996b, 1997, 1998, 1999).
• The recommendations from the HPPRCC in their 1998 report to the Service (“Habitat Essential to the Recovery of Hawaiian Plants”). As summarized in this report, recovery goals for endangered Hawaiian plant species cannot be achieved with ungulates (e.g., pigs, goats, deer, and sheep) present in Essential Habitat Areas.
• The management actions needed for assurance of survival and ultimate recovery of Hawaii's endangered plants. These actions are described in the Service's recovery plans for 48 of the 54 species (USFWS 1995a, 1995b, 1995c, 1996, 1997, 1998a, 1998b, 1999), in the 1998 HPPRCC report to the Service (HPPRCC 1998), and in various other documents and publications relating to plant conservation in Hawaii (Mueller-Dombois 1985; Smith 1985; Stone 1985; Cuddihy and Stone 1990; Stone et al. 1992). In addition to monitoring the plant populations, these actions include, but are not limited to: (1) Feral ungulate control; (2) nonnative plant control; (3) rodent control; (4) invertebrate pest control; (5) fire control; (6) maintenance of genetic material of the endangered and threatened plants species; (7) propagation, reintroduction, and/or augmentation of existing populations into areas deemed essential for the recovery of these species; (8) ongoing management of the wild, outplanted, and augmented populations; and (9) habitat management and restoration in areas deemed essential for the recovery of these species.

In general, taking all of the above recommended management actions into account, the following management actions are ranked in order of importance. It should be noted, however, that, on a case-by-case basis, some of these actions may rise to a higher level of importance for a particular species or area, depending on the biological and physical requirements of the species and the location(s) of the individual plants:

• Feral ungulate control;
• Nonnative plant control;
• Rodent control;
• Invertebrate pest control;
• Fire control;
• Maintenance of genetic material of the endangered and threatened plant species;
• Propagation; reintroduction and/or augmentation of existing populations into areas deemed essential for the recovery of the species;
• Ongoing management of the wild, outplanted and augmented populations;
• Maintenance of natural pollinators and pollinating systems, when known;
• Habitat management and restoration in areas deemed essential for the recovery of the species;
• Monitoring of the wild, outplanted and augmented populations;
• Rare plant surveys; and
• Control of human activities/access.

As shown in Table 3, these 54 species of plants occur on Federal, State, and private lands on the islands of Maui and Kahoolawe. In response to our two public notices, letters to the landowners, open houses, and meetings, along with information in our files, we received varying amounts and various types of information on the conservation management actions occurring on these lands. Some landowners reported that they are not conducting conservation management actions on their lands while others provided information on various activities such as fencing, weeding, ungulate control, control of human access, scientific research, fire control, and propagation and/or planting of native plants.

Contractors for the U.S. Navy are clearing the state-owned island of Kahoolawe of military ordinance utilizing Congressional funding that expires in 2003. The Navy has consulted with the Service under section 7 of the Endangered Species Act, as amended, to ensure protection of threatened and endangered species during the clearance activities. In June 1998, the State of Hawaii Kahoolawe Island Reserve Commission developed an environmental restoration plan for Kahoolawe (Social Science Research Institute, University of Hawaii 1998). The plan, however, does not address specific management actions to protect and conserve endangered plant species. While the island is isolated and remote, and access is restricted due to the presence of unexploded ordnance hazards, this action alone is not sufficient to indicate that additional special management is not required for the listed plant species, and areas on the island are included within the proposed critical habitat units for Kanaloa kahoolawensis, Sesbania tomentosa, and Vigna o-wahuensis.

Protective fencing and monitoring of the endangered plant Sesbania tomentosa on the leased U.S. military lands (Hawaii Army National Guard) at Kanaio Training Area, Maui, were initially funded in 1998. Since then, however, these management activities for Sesbania tomentosa have been curtailed due to a lack of funding (Lt. Col. Richard Young, Hawaii Army National Guard, in litt. 2000). Therefore, this area has been included within the proposed critical habitat units.

Eleven species (Argyroxiphium sandwicense ssp. macrocephalum, Bidens micrantha ssp. kalealaha, Clermontia samuelii, Cyanea copelandii ssp. haleakalaensis, Cyanea hamatiflora ssp. hamatiflora, Geranium arboreum, Geranium multiflorum, Melicope balloui, Melicope ovalis, Plantago princeps, and Schiedea haleakalaensis) are reported from U.S. National Park lands at Haleakala National Park, Maui (GDSI 2000; HINHP 2000). Two of these species, Melicope ovalis and Schiedea haleakalaensis, are currently only found in Haleakala National Park.

Haleakala National Park was established by Congress in 1916 as the Haleakala Section of Hawaii National Park. In 1960, an Act of Congress established Haleakala as an independent unit of the National Park System to preserve for visitor enjoyment and scientific study the outstanding scenic, geological, and biological resources and the natural environment of Haleakala Crater (Resources Management Division 1999). Management programs, objectives, and their implementation schedules are documented in the Park's 1999 draft Resources Management Plan (Resources Management Division 1999). This plan details the management issues and strategies used by the Park to protect, restore, and enhance the rare and native plants and their habitats within the park (Resources Management Division 1999). These management strategies address factors which led to the listing of the 11 species including control of, or research on, nonnative species of ungulates, rodents, invertebrates, and weeds. Management strategies for control of fire within the Park are outlined in their fire management plan (Resources Management Division 1999). In addition, habitat restoration, including propagation and outplanting of native and endangered plants, and monitoring are also included in this plan. Because the Resources Management Plan and the park's fire management plan provides conservation benefits to the listed species within the park and provides assurances that the plan will be effective and will continue to be implemented, these lands are not in need of special management considerations or protection. Therefore, we have determined that the Federal lands within Haleakala National Park do not meet the definition of critical habitat in the Act, and we are not proposing designation of these lands as critical habitat.

Twelve species (Alectryon macrococcus, Argyroxiphium sandwicense ssp. macrocephalum, Bonamia menziesii, Colubrina oppositifolia, Ctenitis squamigera, Diplazium molokaiense, Geranium arboreum, Geranium multiflorum, Melicope balloui, Plantago princeps, Platanthera holochila, and Sanicula purpurea) are reported from The Nature Conservancy's Waikamoi and Kapunakea Preserves which are located on the northeast slopes of Haleakala and in the West Maui mountains, respectively (The Nature Conservancy of Hawaii (TNCH) 1997, 1998; GDSI 2000; HINHP Database 2000). Both preserves were established by grants of perpetual conservation easements from the private landowners to TNCH and are included in the state's Natural Area Partnership (NAP) program which provides matching funds for the management of private lands that have been permanently dedicated to conservation (TNCH 1997, 1998).

Under the NAP program, the State of Hawaii provides matching funds on a two-for-one basis for management of private lands dedicated to conservation. In order to qualify for this program, the land must be dedicated in perpetuity through transfer of fee title or a conservation easement to the State or a cooperating entity. The land must be managed by the cooperating entity or a qualified landowner according to a detailed management plan approved by the Board of Land and Natural Resources. Once approved, the six-year partnership agreement between the State and the managing entity is automatically renewed each year so that there are always six years remaining in the term, although the management plan is updated and funding amounts are re-authorized by the board at least every six years. By April 1 of any year, the managing partner may notify the state that it does not intend to renew the agreement; however, in such case the partnership agreement remains in effect for the balance of the existing six year term, and the conservation easement remains in full effect in perpetuity. The conservation easement may be revoked by the landowner only if state funding is terminated without the concurrence of the landowner and cooperating entity. Prior to terminating funding, the State must conduct one or more public hearings. The NAP program is funded through real estate conveyance taxes which are placed in a Natural Area Reserve Fund. Participants in the NAP program must provide annual reports to the Department of Land and Natural Resources (DLNR) and DLNR makes annual inspections of the work in the reserve areas. See Haw. Rev. Stat.§§ 195-1—195-11; Hawaii Administrative Rules § 13-210.

Management programs within the preserves are documented in long-range management plans and yearly operational plans. These plans detail management measures that protect, restore, and enhance the rare plants and their habitats within the preserves and in adjacent areas (TNCH 1997, 1998, 1999). These management measures address factors which led to the listing of the 12 species including control of nonnative species of ungulates, rodents, and weeds. In addition, habitat restoration and monitoring are also included in these plans.

The primary management goals for both Kapunakea and Waikamoi Preserves are to (1) prevent degradation of native forest by reducing feral ungulate damage; (2) improve or maintain the integrity of native ecosystems in selected areas of the preserve by reducing the effects of nonnative plants; (3) increase the understanding of threats posed by small mammals and reduce their negative impact, where possible; (4) prevent extinction of rare species in the preserve; (5) track the biological and physical resources in the preserves and to evaluate changes in these resources over time; (6) identify new threats to the preserves before they become established pests; and (7) build public understanding and support for the preservation of natural areas, and to enlist volunteer assistance for preserve management (TNCH 1997, 1998).

The goal of the ungulate program is to bring pig populations to zero as rapidly as possible. Specific management actions to address feral ungulate impacts include the construction of fences, including strategic fencing (fences placed in proximity to natural barriers such as cliffs), annual monitoring of ungulate presence transects, and trained staff and volunteer hunting. Since axis deer may also pose a threat to the preserves, TNCH is a member of the Maui Axis Deer Group (MADG) and staff meet regularly with other MADG members to seek solutions. In Waikamoi Preserve, the management actions also include working with community hunters in conjunction with the East Maui Watershed Partnership (EMWP). In Kapunakea Preserve, a system of transects extend the length of the preserve to monitor resource threats, including ungulate presence. By monitoring ungulate activity within the preserve, the staff is able to assess the success of the hunting program. If increased hunting pressure does not reduce feral ungulate activity in the preserves, the preserve staff work with the hunting group to identify and implement alternative methods (TNCH 1997, 1998).

The nonnative plant control program within both preserves focuses on controlling habitat modifying nonnative plants (weeds) in intact native communities and preventing the introduction of additional alien plants. Based on the degree of threat to native ecosystems, a weed priority list has been compiled for the preserves, and control and monitoring of the highest priority species are on-going. Weeds are controlled manually, chemically, or a through a combination of both. Preventative measures (prevention protocol) are required by all (volunteers, riders, and hiking participants) who enter the preserves. This protocol includes such things as brushing footgear before entering the preserves to remove seeds of nonnative plants. Weeds are monitored along transects annually, weed priority maps are maintained, staff participate as members of the Melastome Action Committee and the Maui Invasive Species Committee (MISC), and cooperate with the Division of Conservation and Resources Enforcement (DOCARE) in marijuana control, as needed.

The effects of nonnative invertebrates and small mammals on native Hawaiian ecosystems is poorly understood. Initial control measures such as anti-coagulant diphacinone bait stations are being used to control rats in areas of suspected impact; however, valid conclusions from data gathered have not been drawn. Adaptive management will be applied when new information becomes available (TNCH 1997, 1998).

Natural resource monitoring and research address the need to track the biological and physical resources of the preserves and evaluate changes in these resources to guide management programs. Vegetation is monitored throughout the preserves to document long term ecological changes, and rare plant species are monitored to assess population status. Cuttings of endangered plants are taken to the University of Hawaii's tissue culture lab at Lyon Arboretum for propagation. In addition, the preserve staff provides logistical support to scientists and others who are conducting research within the preserves.

Kapunakea Preserve is adjacent to two areas that are also managed to protect natural resources: Puu Kukui Watershed Management Area (WMA) and the Honokawai section of the state West Maui NAR. The Conservancy currently acts as a consultant to Maui Land and Pineapple Co., managers of Puu Kukui WMA, and has a Master Cooperative Agreement with the state DOFAW. These agreements are used to coordinate management and sharing of staff and equipment, and expertise to maximize management efficiency.

Waikamoi Preserve is adjacent to three other large areas that are also managed to protect natural resources: Haleakala National Park, the state's Koolau Forest Reserve, and the state Hanawi NAR. An agreement between the Division of Land and Natural Resources (DLNR), East Maui Irrigation Co., Keola Hana Maui Inc., Haleakala Ranch Company, County of Maui, The Nature Conservancy, and Haleakala National Park implementing a joint management plan (East Maui Watershed Partnership Plan) for the entire East Maui Watershed. Management efforts at Waikamoi will, as much as possible, complement the objectives of the plan. The partnership agreement will be used to coordinate management and sharing of staff and equipment, and expertise to maximize management efficiency (TNCH 1998).

Because the preserves and the continuing management plans being implemented for these plants and their habitats within the preserves provided a conservation benefit to the species and are permanently protected and managed, these lands meet the three criteria for determining that an area is not in need of special management. Therefore, we have determined that the private lands within Waikamoi Preserve and Kapunakea Preserve do not meet the definition of critical habitat in the Act, and we are not proposing designation of these lands as critical habitat. Should the status of any of these reserves change, for example by non-renewal of a partnership agreement or termination of NAP funding, we will reconsider whether it then meets the definition of critical habitat. If so, we have the authority to propose to amend critical habitat to include such area at that time. 50 CFR 424.12(g).

Seven species (Ctenitis squamigera, Clermontia oblongifolia ssp. mauiensis, Cyanea lobata, Hesperomannia arbuscula, Phlegmariurus mannii, Pteris lidgatei, and Sanicula purpurea) are reported from the Maui Pineapple Company's Puu Kukui Watershed Management Area (Puu Kukui WMA), located in the West Maui mountains (GDSI 2000; HINHP Database 2000; Maui Land and Pineapple Co., Ltd. undated). At just over 8,600 acres, the Puu Kukui WMA is the largest privately-owned preserve in the State. In 1993, the Puu Kukui WMA became the first private landowner participant in the Natural Areas Partnership program. In the sixth fiscal year (1999) of the Natural Area Partnership program with the Hawaii Department of Land and Natural Resources, Puu Kukui Watershed Management Area staff is pursuing four management programs stipulated in their Long Range Management Plan with an emphasis on reducing nonnative species that immediately threaten the management area (Maui Pineapple Company 1999).

The primary management goals within Puu Kukui WMA are to (1) eliminate ungulate activity in all Puu Kukui management units; (2) reduce the range of habitat-modifying weeds and prevent introduction of nonnative plants; (3) reduce the negative impacts of nonnative invertebrates and small animals; (4) monitor and track biological and physical resources in the watershed in order to improve management understanding of the watershed's resources; and (5) prevent the extinction of rare species within the watershed.

Specific management actions to address feral ungulates include the construction of fences surrounding 10 management units, and allowing public hunting with State permit holders within the Puu Kukui WMA.

The nonnative plant control program within Puu Kukui WMA focuses on habitat modifying nonnative plants (weeds), prioritizing them according to the degree of threat to native ecosystems, and preventing the introduction of new weeds. The weed control program includes mapping and monitoring along established transects, and manual/mechanical control. Biological control of the melastome plant, Clidemia hirta was tried by releasing Antiblemma acclinalis moth larvae.

Natural resource monitoring and research address the need to track biological and physical resources of the Puu Kukui WMA and evaluate changes to these resources in order to guide management programs. Vegetation is monitored through permanent photo points, alien species are monitored along permanent transects, and rare, endemic, and indigenous species are monitored. Additionally, logistical and other support for approved research projects, interagency cooperative agreements, remote survey trips within the watershed are provided.

The management of Puu Kukui WMA meets the three criteria for determining that an area is not in need of special management (see above). Therefore, we have determined that the private land within Puu Kukui WMA does not meet the definition of critical habitat in the Act, and we are not proposing designation of this land as critical habitat. Should the status of this reserve change, for example by non-renewal of a partnership agreement or termination of NAP funding, we will reconsider whether it then meets the definition of critical habitat. If so, we have the authority to propose to amend critical habitat to include such area at that time. 50 CFR 424.12(g).

Two plant species, Geranium multiflorum and Clermontia samuelii ssp. hanaensis, are reported from the upper areas of Hanawi Natural Area Reserve (HNAR) (GDSI 2000; HINHP Database 2000). The HNAR was established in 1986, and comprises 7,500 acres of diverse native ecosystems and endangered forest bird habitats. Natural Area Reserves are managed by the Department of Land and Natural Resources (DLNR), except that any use must be specifically approved by the Natural Area Reserve System Commission. Natural Area Reserves are held in trust by the State and may not be alienated except upon a finding by the DLNR of an imperative and unavoidable necessity. DLNR must provide public notice and conduct public hearings before revoking or modifying an executive order that sets aside lands for the reserve system (Haw. Rev. Stat. §§ 195-1—195-11). The primary goals of the HNAR are to (1) protect the upper areas of the reserve by fencing smaller manageable units to restrict pig movements; (2) prevent degradation of native forest by reducing feral ungulate damage; and (3) improve or maintain the integrity of native ecosystems in selected areas of the preserve by reducing the effects of nonnative plants.

Specific management actions to address feral ungulate impacts include the construction of fences, including strategic fencing of smaller manageable units, and staff hunting. Currently, the upper 2,000 acres has been fenced and pigs removed. Fences are constructed along the western boundaries of the HNAR, along the 1,585 m (5,200 ft) contour to the east up to the Haleakala National Park boundary on state land. The Haleakala National Park fence serves as the upper fence boundary for HNAR. Additionally, fences have been constructed to separate three distinct management units: Puu Alaea Unit, Poouli Unit, and Kuhiwai/Waieleele Unit. Since the removal of pigs in these upper forest units of the HNAR, vegetation monitoring has been implemented to determine recovery of native plant species. Currently, a fence is being constructed along the 1,100 m (3,600 ft) contour of the HNAR which will comprise the “middle forest unit” (B. Evanson, pers. comm. 1999).

The nonnative plant control program within HNAR focuses on habitat modifying nonnative plants (weeds). A weed priority list has been compiled for HNAR and control and monitoring of the highest priority species are on going. Weeds are controlled manually, chemically, or through a combination of both. Monitoring transects will help locate developing populations of other priority weed species and, if necessary, removal of these populations will be conducted (DLNR 1989).

Because these plants and their habitats within the upper areas of Hanawi NAR (above 1,525 m (5,000 ft)) are permanently protected and managed and because the continued successful management of this area is assured, this area is not in need of special management considerations or protection. Therefore, we have determined that the State land within the upper areas of Hanawi NAR does not meet the definition of critical habitat in the Act, and we are not proposing designation of this area as critical habitat. Should the status of this reserve change, for example by revocation or modification of the NAR, we will reconsider whether it then meets the definition of critical habitat. If so, we have the authority to propose to amend critical habitat to include such area at that time. 50 CFR 424.12(g).

In summary, we believe that the habitat within Waikamoi and Kapunakea Preserves, Puu Kukui Watershed Management Area, the upper area (above 1,525 m (5,000 ft)) of Hanawi Natural Area Reserve, and Haleakala National Park are being adequately managed for the conservation of the listed species that occur within these areas and are not in need of special management considerations or protection. Therefore, we have determined that these lands do not meet the definition of critical habitat in the Act, and we are not proposing designation of these lands as critical habitat. Four species include in this proposed rule (Argyroxiphium sandwicense ssp. macrocephalum, Melicope balloui, Melicope ovalis, and Schiedea haleakalensis) are currently only found in Waikamoi Preserve and/or Haleakala National Park. Since these two areas are not in need of special management, critical habitat is not proposed for these four species. However, we are specifically soliciting comments on the appropriateness of this approach.

As described above, we are aware that other private landowners and the State of Hawaii are considering the development of land management plans or agreements that may promote the conservation and recovery of endangered and threatened plant species on the islands of Maui and Kahoolawe. The Service supports these efforts and provides technical assistance whenever possible. In addition, we are soliciting comments in this proposed rule on whether current land management plans or practices applied within the areas proposed as critical habitat adequately address the threats to these listed species. We are also soliciting comments on whether future development and approval of conservation measures (e.g., Conservation Agreements, Safe Harbor Agreements) should trigger revision of proposed critical habitat to exclude such lands and, if so, by what mechanism.

In summary, the proposed critical habitat areas described below constitute our best assessment of the physical and biological features needed for the conservation of the 50 plant species, and are based on the best scientific and commercial information available and described above. We put forward this proposal acknowledging that we have incomplete information regarding many of the primary biological and physical requirements for these species. However, both the Act and the relevant court orders require us to proceed with designation at this time based on the best information available. As new information accrues, we may reevaluate which areas warrant critical habitat designation. We anticipate that comments received through the public review process and from any public hearings, if requested, will provide us with additional information to use in our decision-making process and in assessing the potential impacts of designating critical habitat for one or more of these species.

The approximate areas of proposed critical habitat by landownership are shown in Tables 5(a) and 5(b). Proposed critical habitat includes habitat for 50 species predominantly in the upland areas on the eastern and western sides of Maui. Lands proposed as critical habitat have been divided into 52 units on Maui and four units on Kahoolawe. A brief description of each unit is presented below.

Descriptions of Critical Habitat Units

Maui A

The proposed Maui A provides critical habitat for one species: Sesbania tomentosa. This unit contains a total of 49 ha (121 ac). The lands contained within this unit are owned by Maui County and a private entity. The natural feature found in this unit is Nakalele Point.

Maui B

The proposed Maui B provides critical habitat for one species: Sesbania tomentosa. This unit contains a total of 67 ha (166 ac). The lands contained within this unit are owned by the State and a private entity. The natural features found in this unit are Keawalua, Corral, Akaluanui, and Akhluaiki. This area is bound on the north by Poelua Bay.

Maui C

The proposed Maui C provides critical habitat for one species: Sesbania tomentosa. This unit contains approximately 144 ha (357 ac). The land contained within this unit is predominately owned by the State, with a very small portion privately owned. The natural features found in this unit are Mokolea Point, portions of Alapapa Gulch, Papanalahoa Point, and Kaikaina.

Maui D

The proposed Maui D provides critical habitat for two species: Centaurium sebaeoides and Sesbania tomentosa. This unit contains 45 ha (111 ac). The lands contained within this unit are owned by the State and a private entity. The natural features found in this unit are Kahakuloa Head, Puu Koae, and Puu Kahulianapa. This unit is bound on the west by Kahakuloa Bay, on the southwest by Kahakuloa town, and on the east by Mahinanui.

Maui E

The proposed Maui E provides critical habitat for one species: Centaurium sebaeoides. This unit contains a total of 79 ha (194 ac). The lands contained within this unit are owned by State and private owners. The natural features found in this unit are portions of Makamakaole Stream, Lahoole and Waiokila Gulch.

Maui F

The proposed Maui F provides critical habitat for one species: Centaurium sebaeoides. This unit contains a total of 61 ha (150 ac). The land contained within this unit is owned solely by a private owner. The natural feature found in this unit is Kupaa Gulch.

Maui G

The proposed Maui G provides critical habitat for two species: Ischaemum byrone and Peucedanum sandwicense. This unit contains a total of 1 ha (2 ac). The land contained within this unit is owned by the State. This unit is the entire Keopuka Islet.

Maui H

The proposed Maui H provides critical habitat for one species: Ischaemum byrone. This unit contains a total of 42 ha (104 ac). The lands contained within this unit are owned by the State and private owners. The natural features found in this unit are Pauwalu Point, Paepaemoana Point, and Waianu.

Maui I

The proposed Maui I provides critical habitat for one species: Ischaemum byrone. This unit contains a total of 0.1 ha (0.3 ac). The land contained within this unit is owned by the State. This unit is Moku Huki.

Maui J

The proposed Maui J provides critical habitat for one species: Mariscus pennatiformis. This unit contains a total of 63 ha (157 ac). The lands contained within this unit are owned the State and private owners. The natural feature found in this unit is Hanawi Stream.

Maui K

The proposed Maui K provides critical habitat for one species: Ischaemum byrone. This unit contains a total of 61 ha (150 ac). The land contained within this unit is owned solely by private owners. The natural feature found in this unit is Kalahu Point.

Maui L

The proposed Maui L provides critical habitat for one species: Ischaemum byrone. This unit contains a total of 50 ha (124 ac). The land contained within this unit is owned by the State. The natural features found in this unit are portions of Keakulikuli Point, Kapukaulua, Pukaulua Point and Waianapanapa Cave. This unit is bound on the east by Keauaiki and Pailoa Bays.

Maui M

The proposed Maui M provides critical habitat for one species: Ischaemum byrone. This unit contains a total of 14.3 ha (35.7 ac). The lands contained within this unit are owned by the State and a private owner. The natural feature found in this unit is Kauiki Head.

Maui N

The proposed Maui N provides critical habitat for one species: Lipochaeta kamolensis. This unit contains a total of 115 ha (284 ac). The lands contained within this unit are owned by the State and a private owner. The natural feature found in this unit is Kepuni Gulch.

Maui O

The proposed Maui O provides critical habitat for two species: Bonamia menziesii and Hibiscus brackenridgei. This unit contains a total of 278 ha (688 ac). The land contained within this unit is owned by the State. The natural feature found in this unit is Puu o kali.

Maui P

The proposed Maui P provides critical habitat for one species: Clermontia oblongifolia ssp. mauiensis. This unit contains a total of 58 ha (144 ac) and is found in the State's Honokowai section of the West Maui NAR and the West Maui Forest Reserve. The land contained within this unit is owned solely by the State. The natural feature found in this unit is a portion of Amalu Stream.

Maui Q

The proposed Maui Q provides critical habitat for 15 species: Alectryon macrococcus, Ctenitis squamigera, Cyanea glabra, Cyanea grimesiana ssp. grimesiana, Cyanea lobata, Diellia erecta, Dubautia plantaginea ssp. humilis, Hedyotis mannii, Hesperomannia arbuscula, Lysimachia lydgatei, Phlegmariurus mannii, Plantago princeps, Pteris lidgatei, Sanicula purpurea and Tetramolopium capillare. This unit contains a total of 2,338 ha (5,791 ac) and is found in the State's Lihau and Panaewa sections of the West Maui NAR and the West Maui Forest Reserve. The lands contained within this unit are owned by the State and private owners. The natural features found in this unit are portions of Kahoma Stream, Kanaha Stream, Makila Stream, Launiupaku Stream, Kinihapai Stream, Ae Stream, Olowalu Stream, Nukalaloa Stream, and Poohahoahoa Stream; portions of Kahoolewa Ridge; Kauaula; Helu; Launiupoko; Lihau; Olowalu; Halepohaku; Ulaula; portions of Ukumehame Gulch and Stream; Koai; portions of the back of Iao Valley and Stream; the Needle; portions of Kapilau Ridge; Paunau; portions of Waikapu Valley; and Hanaula.

Maui R

The proposed Maui R provides critical habitat for two species: Hesperomannia arbuscula and Sanicula purpurea. This unit contains a total of 299.1 ha (740.3 ac). The lands contained within this unit are owned by a private owner and the State. The natural feature found in this unit is a portion of Waihee River.

Maui S

The proposed Maui S provides critical habitat for one species: Sanicula purpurea. This unit contains a total of 143 ha (354 ac). The lands contained within this unit are owned by the State and a private owner. The natural features found in this unit are Kahakuloa, portions of Kahakuloa Stream and Hulupueo Stream, and Keahikauo.

Maui T

The proposed Maui T provides critical habitat for five species: Ctenitis squamigera, Diellia erecta, Neraudia sericea, Platanthera holochila, and Remya mauiensis. This unit contains a total of 580 ha (1,436 ac) and is found in the State's West Maui Forest Reserve and Manawainui Plant Sanctuary. The lands contained within this unit are owned by the State and a private owner. The natural features found in this unit are portions of Pohakea Gulch, Kaonehua Gulch, Papalaua Gulch, and Manawainui Gulch; portions of Ukumehame; Hanaulaiki; Polanui; and Puu Anu.

Maui U

The proposed Maui U provides critical habitat for one species: Spermolepis hawaiiensis. This unit contains a total of 120 ha (298 ac). The lands contained within this unit are owned by the State and a private land owner. The natural feature found in this unit is a portion of Kanaha Stream.

Maui V

The proposed Maui V provides critical habitat for one species: Hibiscus brackenridgei. This unit contains a total of 103 ha (255 ac). The land contained within this unit are owned solely by private owners. The natural features found in this unit are portions of Kaunoahua ridge, portions of Paleaahu Gulch, and portions of Kaonohua Gulch.

Maui W

The proposed Maui W provides critical habitat for two species: Phlegmariurus mannii and Sanicula purpurea. This unit contains a total of 69 ha (172 ac) and is found in the State's Kahakuloa section of the West Maui NAR. The lands contained within this unit are owned by the State and a private land owner. The natural features found in this unit are Violet Lake and a portion of Kapuloa Stream.

Maui X

The proposed Maui X provides critical habitat for four species: Hedyotis coriacea, Hibiscus brackenridgei, Sesbania tomentosa, and Spermolepis hawaiiensis. This unit contains a total of 204 ha (505 ac) and is found in the State's Lihau section of the West Maui NAR. The lands contained within this unit are owned by the State and a private owner. This unit is bound on the east by Olowalu.

Maui Y

The proposed Maui Y provides critical habitat for one species: Cyrtandra munroi. This unit contains a total of 116 ha (287 ac) and is found within the State's West Maui Forest Reserve. The lands contained within this unit are owned by the State and a private owner. The natural feature found in this unit is a portion of Makamakaole Stream.

Maui Z

The proposed Maui Z provides critical habitat for one species: Hesperomannia arborescens. This unit contains a total of 115 ha (284 ac) and is found within the State's Kahakuloa section of the West Maui NAR and the West Maui Forest Reserve. The lands contained within this unit are owned by the State and a private owner. The natural features found in this unit are portions of Makamakaole Stream, portions of Huluhulupueo Stream, and Lanilili.

Maui Aa

The proposed Maui Aa provides critical habitat for one species: Pteris lidgatei. This unit contains a total of 74.3 ha (183.7 ac) and is found within the State's Kahakuloa section of the West Maui NAR. The lands contained within this unit are owned privately and by the State. The natural features found in this unit are Kahakuloa and Honokohau.

Maui Bb

The proposed Maui Bb provides critical habitat for two species: Cyanea copelandii ssp. haleakalaensis and Cyanea mceldowneyi. This unit contains a total of 352 ha (872 ac) and is located within the State's Makawao Forest Reserve. The lands contained within this unit are owned by the State and private owners. The natural features found in this unit are Haiku Uka, portions of Opana Gulch, portions of Kailua Stream, portions of Waiohiwi Gulch, and portions of Waikamoi Stream.

Maui Cc

The proposed unit Maui Cc provides critical habitat for one species: Cyanea hamatiflora ssp. hamatiflora. This unit contains a total of 117 ha (290 ac). The land contained within this unit is owned solely by a private owner. The natural features found in this unit are portions of Haipuaena Stream and Puohakamoa Stream.

Maui Dd

The proposed Maui Dd provides critical habitat for two species: Cyanea hamatiflora ssp. hamatiflora and Cyanea mceldowneyi. This unit contains a total of 213 ha (528 ac). The land contained within this unit is owned solely by a private land owner. The natural features found in this unit are portions of Puohokamoa Stream and Haipuaena Stream.

Maui Ee

The proposed Maui Ee provides critical habitat for one species: Geranium multiflorum. This unit contains a total of 188 ha (466 ac) and is found in the State's Koolau Forest Reserve. The lands contained within this unit are owned by the State and a private owner. The natural feature found in this unit is Puu Alaea.

Maui Ff

The proposed Maui Ff provides critical habitat for one species: Cyanea hamatiflora ssp. hamatiflora. This unit contains a total of 119 ha (295 ac) and is found in the State's Hanawi NAR and Koolau Forest Reserve. The land contained within this unit is owned by the State. The natural features found in this unit are portions of the east Wailuaiki Stream and portions of the Kopiliula Stream.

Maui Gg

The proposed Maui Gg provides critical habitat for two species: Cyanea copelandii ssp. haleakalaensis and Cyanea mceldowneyi. This unit contains a total of 177 ha (438 ac) and is found within the State's Hanawi NAR. The land contained within this unit is owned by the State. The natural features found in this unit are western portions of Kuhiwa Valley and portions of Kuhiwa Stream and Mukupiui Stream.

Maui Hh

The proposed Maui Hh provides critical habitat for two species: Clermontia samuelii ssp. hanaensis and Cyanea mceldowneyi. This unit contains a total of 117 ha (290 ac) and is found in the State's Hanawi NAR. The land contained within this unit is owned by the State. The natural feature found in this unit is the eastern portion of Kuhiwa Valley.

Maui Ii

The proposed Maui Ii provides critical habitat for one species: Clermontia samuelii. This unit contains a total of 879 ha (2,177 ac) and is found in the State's Koolau and Hana Forest Reserves. The land contained within this unit is owned by the State. The natural feature found in this unit is portions of the Mokulehua Gulch.

Maui Jj

Proposed Maui Jj provides critical habitat for one species: Phlegmariurus mannii. This unit contains a total of 93 ha (230 ac) and is found in the State's Kipahulu Forest Reserve. The lands contained within this unit are owned by the State. The natural features found in this unit are portions of Healani Stream and western portions of Manawainui Valley.

Maui Kk

The proposed Maui Kk provides critical habitat for two species: Phlegmariurus mannii and Cyanea hanatiflora ssp. hamatiflora. This unit contains a total of 144 ha (357 ac) and is found within the State's Kipahulu Forest Reserve. The lands contained within this unit are owned by the State. The natural features found in this unit are northeastern portions of Manawainui Valley, Puu Ahulili, and Niniao.

Maui Ll

The proposed Maui Ll provides critical habitat for one species: Geranium arboreum. This unit contains a total of 45 ha (111 ac). The lands contained within this unit are owned privately. The natural feature found in this unit is a portion of Kamehaneiki Gulch.

Maui Mm

The proposed Maui Mm provides critical habitat for one species: Geranium arboreum. This unit contains a total of 167 ha (413 ac) and is found in the State's Kula Forest Reserve. The lands contained within this unit are owned by the State and private owners. The natural features found in this unit are a portion of Keahuaiwi Gulch, Waiakoa, and a portion of Naalae Gulch.

Maui Nn

The proposed Maui Nn provides critical habitat for one species: Geranium arboreum. This unit contains a total of 692 ha (1,714 ac) and is found in the State's Kula and Kahikinui Forest Reserves. The lands contained within this unit are owned by the State and private owners. The natural features found in this unit are a portion of Kaipoioi Gulch, Kaonoulu, Waiohuli, portions of Waiohuli Gulch, and Papaanui.

Maui Oo

The proposed Maui Oo provides critical habitat for one species: Bidens micrantha ssp. kalealaha. This unit contains a total of 116 ha (287 ac). The land contained within this unit is owned by the State. The natural features found in this unit are Kahua and Kahikinui.

Maui Pp

The proposed Maui Pp provides critical habitat for one species: Geranium arboreum. This unit contains a total of 113 ha (280 ac) and is found in the State's Kula and Kahikinui Forest Reserves. The lands contained within this unit are owned by the State and private owners. The natural feature found in this unit is Kanaio.

Maui Qq

The proposed Maui Qq provides critical habitat for seven species: Bidens micrantha ssp. kalealaha; Clermontia lindseyana, Diellia erecta, Diplazium molokaiense, Neraudia sericea, Phlegmariurus mannii, and Phyllostegia mollis. This unit contains a total of 973 ha (2,410 ac) and is found in the State's Kahikinui Forest Reserve. The land contained within this unit is owned by the State. The natural features found in this unit are portions of Waiopai Gulch, Manawainui Gulch, Wailaulau Gulch, and Kapuni Gulch, and Kula.

Maui Rr

The proposed Maui Rr provides critical habitat for one species: Alectryon macrococcus. This unit contains a total of 115 ha (285 ac) and is found in the State's Kahikinui Forest Reserve. The lands contained within this unit are owned by the State and private owners. The natural features found in this unit are Kula and portions of Panini Gulch.

Maui Ss

The proposed Maui Ss provides critical habitat for ten species: Alectryon macrococcus, Bonamia menziesii, Cenchrus agrimonioides, Colubrina oppositifolia, Flueggea neowawraea, Melicope adscendens, Melicope knudsenii, Melicope mucronulata, Spermolepis hawaiiensis, and Zanthoxylum hawaiiense. This unit contains a total of 1,924 ha (4,766 ac), portions of which are found in the Kanaio NAR. The land contained within this unit is owned by the State and private owners. The natural features found in this unit are Puu Ouli, Maunanu, Kalmaloo, Luapelani, Puu Mahoe, Auwahi, and Kanaio.

Maui Tt

The proposed Maui Tt provides critical habitat for one species: Sesbania tomentosa. This unit contains a total of 114 ha (282 ac). The lands contained within this unit are owned by the State and leased by the U.S. Department of Defense (Hawaii Army National Guard) for the Kanaio Training Area, and private owners. The natural features found in this unit are Pimoe and Kanaio.

Maui Uu

The proposed Maui Uu provides critical habitat for one species: Hibiscus brackenridgei. This unit contains a total of 121 ha (300 ac). The lands contained within this unit are owned by the State and private owners. The natural feature found in this unit is Keokea.

Maui Vv

The proposed Maui Vv provides critical habitat for one species: Vigna o-wahuensis. This unit contains a total of 77 ha (190 ac). The land contained within this unit is owned by the State. The natural features found in this unit are Kamanamana, a portion of Kaloi, and a portion of Kaunauhane.

Maui Ww

The proposed Maui Ww provides critical habitat for one species: Flueggea neowawraea. This unit contains a total of 133 ha (329 ac). The lands contained within this unit are owned by the State. The natural feature found in this unit is a portion of the Lualailua Hills.

Maui Xx

The proposed Maui Xx provides critical habitat for one species: Ctenitis squamigera. This unit contains a total of 60 ha (149 ac) and is found within the State's West Maui Forest Reserve. The lands contained within this unit are owned by the State and private owners. The natural features found in this unit are Kahana, portions of Kahanaiki Gulch, Mahinahina, and Moomoku.

Maui Yy

The proposed Maui Yy provides critical habitat for one species: Clermontia lindseyana. This unit contains a total of 1,118 ha (2,769 ac). The lands contained within this unit are owned by the State and private owners. The natural features found within this unit are Kamaole, Keauhou, Keonenelu, and Waihou Spring.

Maui Zz

The proposed Maui Zz provides critical habitat for one species: Ctenitis squamigera. This unit contains a total of 118 ha (292 ac). The lands contained within this unit are owned by the State and private owners. The natural features found in this unit are portions of Kanaha Stream, Panaewa, and Kuia.

Kahoolawe A

The proposed Kahoolawe A, the islet Puu Koae off the southern coast of Kahoolawe, provides critical habitat for one species: Sesbania tomentosa. This unit contains a total of 5 ha (12 ac). The land contained within this unit is owned by the State.

Kahoolawe B

The proposed Kahoolawe B provides critical habitat for one species: Kanaloa kahoolawensis. This unit contains a total of 38 ha (94 ac). The land contained within this unit is owned by the State. The natural feature found in this unit is Aleale.

Kahoolawe C

The proposed Kahoolawe C provides critical habitat for one species: Vigna o-wahuensis. This unit contains a total of 50 ha (124 ac). The land contained within this unit is owned by the State. The natural feature found in this unit is a tidal pond.

Kahoolawe D

The proposed Kahoolawe D provides critical habitat for one species: Vigna o-wahuensis. This unit contains a total of 114 ha (282 ac). The land contained within this unit is owned by the State.

Effects of Critical Habitat Designation

Section 7(a) of the Act requires Federal agencies, including the Service, to ensure that actions they fund, authorize, or carry out do not destroy or adversely modify critical habitat to the extent that the action appreciably diminishes the value of the critical habitat for the survival and recovery of the species. Individuals, organizations, states, local governments, and other non-Federal entities are affected by the designation of critical habitat only if their actions occur on Federal lands, require a Federal permit, license, or other authorization, or involve Federal funding.

Section 7(a) of the Act 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 designated or proposed. 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 us on any action that is likely to jeopardize the continued existence of a proposed species or result in destruction or adverse modification of proposed critical habitat. Conference reports provide conservation recommendations to assist the agency in eliminating conflicts that may be caused by the proposed action. The conservation recommendations in a conference report are advisory. If a species is listed or critical habitat is designated, section 7(a)(2) requires Federal agencies to ensure that actions they authorize, fund, or carry out are not likely to jeopardize the continued existence of such a 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 (action agency) must enter into consultation with us. Through this consultation we would ensure that the permitted actions do not destroy or adversely modify critical habitat.

When we issue a biological opinion concluding that a project is likely to result in the destruction or adverse modification of critical habitat, we also provide reasonable and prudent alternatives to the project, if any are identifiable. Reasonable and prudent alternatives are defined at 50 CFR 402.02 as alternative actions identified during consultation that can be implemented in a manner consistent with the intended purpose of the action, that are consistent with the scope of the Federal agency's legal authority and jurisdiction, that are economically and technologically feasible, and that the Director believes would avoid destruction or adverse modification of critical habitat. Reasonable and prudent alternatives can vary from slight project modifications to extensive redesign or relocation of the project. Costs associated with implementing a reasonable and prudent alternative are similarly variable.

Regulations at 50 CFR 402.16 require Federal agencies to reinitiate consultation on previously reviewed actions in instances where critical habitat is subsequently designated and the Federal agency has retained discretionary involvement or control over the action or such discretionary involvement or control is authorized by law. Consequently, some Federal agencies may request reinitiation of consultation with us on actions for which formal consultation has been completed if those actions may affect designated critical habitat. Further, some Federal agencies may have conferenced with us on proposed critical habitat. We may adopt the formal conference report as the biological opinion when critical habitat is designated, if no significant new information or changes in the action alter the content of the opinion (see 50 CFR 402.10(d)).

Activities on lands being proposed as critical habitat for these 50 species or activities that may indirectly affect such lands and that are conducted by a Federal agency, funded by a Federal agency or require a permit from a Federal agency will be subject to the section 7 consultation process. Federal actions not affecting critical habitat, as well as actions on non-Federal lands that are not federally funded or permitted, will not require section 7 consultation.

Section 4(b)(8) of the Act requires us to briefly describe and evaluate in any proposed or final regulation that designates critical habitat those activities involving a Federal action that may adversely modify such habitat or that may be affected by such designation. We note that such activities may also jeopardize the continued existence of the species. Activities that, when carried out, funded, or authorized by a Federal agency, may affect critical habitat include, but are not limited to:

(1) Activities that degrade or destroy habitat defined as a primary constituent element, including but not limited to: Overgrazing; maintenance of feral ungulates; clearing, cutting of native live trees and shrubs, whether by burning or mechanical, chemical, or other means (e.g., woodcutting, bulldozing, construction, road building, mining, herbicide application); introducing or enabling the spread of nonnative species; and taking actions that pose a risk of fire.

(2) Water diversion or impoundment, groundwater pumping, or other activity that alters water quality or quantity to an extent that wet forest or bog vegetation is significantly affected;

(3) Recreational activities that degrade vegetation; and

(4) Activities that may destroy or adversely modify critical habitat include those that alter the primary constituent elements to the extent that the value of critical habitat for both the survival and recovery of any one of the 50 species is appreciably reduced.

To properly portray the effects of critical habitat designation, we must first compare the section 7 requirements for actions that may affect critical habitat with the requirements for actions that may affect a listed species. Section 7 prohibits actions funded, authorized, or carried out by Federal agencies from jeopardizing the continued existence of a listed species or destroying or adversely modifying the listed species' critical habitat. Actions likely to “jeopardize the continued existence” of a species are those that would appreciably reduce the likelihood of both the survival and recovery of a listed species. Actions likely to result in the destruction or adverse modification of critical habitat are those that would appreciably reduce the value of critical habitat for both the survival and recovery of the listed species.

Common to both definitions is an appreciable detrimental effect on both survival and recovery of a listed species. Given the similarity of these definitions, actions likely to result in the destruction or adverse modification of critical habitat would almost always result in jeopardy to the species concerned, particularly when the area of the proposed action is occupied by the species concerned. In those cases, critical habitat provides little additional protection to a species, and the ramifications of its designation are few or none. However, if occupied habitat becomes unoccupied in the future, there is a potential benefit from critical habitat in such areas.

Federal agencies already consult with us on activities in areas currently occupied by the species to ensure that their actions do not jeopardize the continued existence of the species. These actions include, but are not limited to:

(1) Regulation of activities affecting waters of the United States by the Army Corps of Engineers under section 404 of the Clean Water Act;

(2) Development requiring permits from other Federal agencies such as Housing and Urban Development;

(3) Regulation of grazing and recreation, and federally funded silviculture/forestry projects and research by the U.S. Department of Agriculture (Forest Service);

(4) Regulation of airport improvement activities by the Federal Aviation Administration jurisdiction;

(5) Road construction and maintenance by, or funded by, the U.S. Department of Transportation;

(6) Military training or similar activities of the U.S. Department of Defense (Hawaii Army National Guard) on lands under their jurisdiction;

(7) Unexploded ordinance clean-up or similar activities of the U.S. Department of Defense (Navy) or their contractors on the island of Kahoolawe;

(8) Federally funded importation of alien species for research, agriculture, and aquiculture, and the release or authorization of release of biological control agents by the U.S. Department of Agriculture;

(9) Regulation of activities affecting point source pollution discharges into waters of the United States by the Environmental Protection Agency under section 402 of the Clean Water Act.;

(10) Hazard mitigation and post-disaster repairs funded by the Federal Emergency Management Agency;

(11) Installation and maintenance of U.S. Coast Guard navigational aids;

(12) Construction of communication sites licensed by the Federal Communications Commission;

(13) Construction activities by the U.S. Department of Interior (National Park Service); and

(14) Activities not mentioned above funded or authorized by the U.S. Department of Agriculture (Forest Service, Natural Resources Conservation Service), Department of Defense, Department of Transportation, Department of Energy, Department of Interior (U.S. Geological Survey, National Park Service), Department of Commerce (National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration) or any other Federal agency.

All lands designated as critical habitat are within the geographical area occupied by these species. Thus, we consider all critical habitat proposed in this rule to be occupied. Federal agencies already consult with us on activities in areas currently occupied by the species or if the species may be affected by the action to ensure that their actions do not jeopardize the continued existence of the species. Because of this, we do not expect any additional project modifications or restrictions or anticipate additional regulatory protection will result from critical habitat designation.

If you have questions regarding whether specific activities may affect or will constitute adverse modification of critical habitat, contact the Field Supervisor, Pacific Islands Ecological Services Field Office (see ADDRESSES section). Requests for copies of the regulations on listed plants and animals, and general inquiries regarding prohibitions and permits, may be addressed to the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, Endangered Species Permits, 911 N.E. 11th Ave., Portland, Oregon 97232-4181 (telephone 503-231-2063; facsimile 503-231-6243).

Consideration of Economic and Other Relevant Impacts

Section 4(b)(2) of the Act requires us to designate critical habitat on the basis of the best scientific and commercial data available and to consider the economic and other relevant impacts of designating a particular area as critical habitat. We may exclude areas from critical habitat upon a determination that the benefits of such exclusions outweigh the benefits of specifying such areas as critical habitat. We cannot exclude such areas from critical habitat when such exclusion will result in the extinction of the species.

We will conduct the economic analysis for this proposal prior to a final determination. When the draft economic analysis is completed, we will announce its availability with a notice in the Federal Register, and we will have a comment period for 30 days at that time to accept comments.

We will utilize the final economic analysis, and take into consideration all comments and information regarding economic or other impacts submitted during the public comment period and any public hearings, if requested, to make final critical habitat designations. We may exclude areas from critical habitat upon a determination that the benefits of such exclusions outweigh the benefits of specifying such areas as part of critical habitat; however, we cannot exclude areas from critical habitat when such exclusion will result in the extinction of the species.

Public Comments Solicited

It is our intent that any final action resulting from this proposal be as accurate and as effective as possible. Therefore, we solicit comments or suggestions from the public, other concerned governmental agencies, the scientific community, industry, or any other interested party concerning this proposed rule.

In this proposed rule, we do not propose to designate critical habitat on the private lands within Waikamoi and Kapunakea Preserves, Puu Kukui Watershed Management Area, and on the State lands in the upper areas of Hanawi Natural Area Reserve because these areas are permanently dedicated to conservation and managed to address the threats to the plant species at issue. We believe that these areas are not in need of special management considerations or protection and, therefore, do not meet the definition of critical habitat in the Act. Since we do not believe these areas meet the definition of critical habitat, critical habitat is not proposed for the four species that are only found in Waikamoi Preserve and/or Haleakala National Park (Argyroxiphium sandwicense ssp. macrocephalum, Melicope balloui, Melicope ovalis, and Schiedea haleakalensis). However, we are specifically soliciting comments on the appropriateness of this approach.

The Service also invites comments from the public that provide information on whether lands within proposed critical habitat are currently being managed to address conservation needs of these listed plants. As stated earlier in this proposed rule, if we receive information that any of the areas proposed as critical habitat are adequately managed, we may delete such areas from designation in the final rule, because they would not meet the definition in section 3(5)(A)(i) of the Act. In determining adequacy of management, we must find that the management effort is sufficiently certain to be implemented and effective so as to contribute to the elimination or adequate reduction of relevant threats to the species.

In determining whether an action is likely to be implemented, we will generally consider the following:

• Whether or not a management plan or agreement exists which specifies the management actions being implemented, or if to be implemented, the schedule for implementation;
• Whether there are responsible party(ies) and funding source(s) or other resources necessary to implement the actions, with a high level of assurance that the funding will be provided; and
• The authority and long-term commitment of the party(ies) to the agreement or plan to implement the management actions, as demonstrated, for example, by a legal instrument providing enduring protection and management of the lands.

In determining whether an action is likely to be effective, we would generally consider whether or not the plan is specific concerning the threats to be addressed by the management actions; whether such actions have been successful in the past; whether there are provisions for monitoring and assessment of the effectiveness of the management actions; and whether adaptive management principles have been incorporated into the plan.

We are aware that the State of Hawaii and some private landowners are considering the development and implementation of land management plans or agreements that may promote the conservation and recovery of endangered and threatened plant species on the island of Maui. We are soliciting comments in this proposed rule on whether current land management plans or practices applied within the areas proposed as critical habitat provide for the conservation of the species by adequately addressing the threats. We are also soliciting comments on whether future development and approval of conservation measures (e.g., Conservation Agreements, Safe Harbor Agreements) should be excluded from critical habitat and if so, by what mechanism.

In addition, we are seeking comments on the following:

(1) The reasons why critical habitat for any of these species is prudent or not prudent as provided by section 4 of the Act and 50 CFR 424.12(a)(1), including whether the benefits of designation would outweigh any threats to these species due to designation;

(2) The reasons why any particular area should or should not be designated as critical habitat for any of these species, as critical habitat is defined by section 3 of the Act (16 U.S.C. 1532(5));

(3) Specific information on the amount and distribution of habitat for Acaena exigua, Alectryon macrococcus, Argyroxiphium sandwicense ssp. macrocephalum, Bidens micrantha ssp. kalealaha, Bonamia menziesii, Cenchrus agrimonioides, Centaurium sebaeoides, Clermontia lindseyana, Clermontia oblongifolia ssp. mauiensis, Clermontia samuelii, Colubrina oppositifolia, Ctenitis squamigera, Cyanea copelandii ssp. haleakalaensis, Cyanea glabra, Cyanea grimesiana ssp. grimesiana, Cyanea hamatiflora ssp. hamatiflora, Cyanea lobata, Cyanea mceldowneyi, Cyrtandra munroi, Diellia erecta, Diplazium molokaiense, Dubautia plantaginea ssp. humilis, Flueggea neowawraea, Geranium arboreum, Geranium multiflorum, Hedyotis coriacea, Hedyotis mannii, Hesperomannia arborescens, Hesperomannia arbuscula, Hibiscus brackenridgei, Ischaemum byrone, Kanaloa kahoolawensis, Lipochaeta kamolensis, Lysimachia lydgatei, Mariscus pennatiformis, Melicope adscendens, Melicope balloui, Melicope knudsenii, Melicope mucronulata, Melicope ovalis, Neraudia sericea, Peucedanum sandwicense, Phlegmariurus mannii, Phyllostegia mollis, Plantago princeps, Platanthera holochila, Pteris lidgatei, Remya mauiensis, Sanicula purpurea, Schiedea haleakalensis, Sesbania tomentosa, Spermolepis hawaiiensis, Tetramolopium capillare, Vigna o-wahuensis, and Zanthoxylum hawaiiense, and what habitat is essential to the conservation of the species and why;

(4) Land use practices and current or planned activities in the subject areas and their possible impacts on proposed critical habitat;

(5) Any economic or other impacts resulting from the proposed designations of critical habitat, including any impacts on small entities or families; and

(6) Economic and other potential values associated with designating critical habitat for the above 50 plant species such as those derived from non-consumptive uses (e.g., hiking, camping, birding, enhanced watershed protection, increased soil retention, “existence values,” and reductions in administrative costs).

If you wish to comment, you may submit your comments and materials concerning this proposal by any one of several methods.

1. You may submit written comments and information to the Field Supervisor, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, Pacific Islands Office, 300 Ala Moana Blvd., P.O. Box 50088, Honolulu, HI 96850-0001.

2. If you would like to submit comments by e-mail (mandk_crithab_pr@fws.gov), please submit e-mail comments as an ASCII file format and avoid the use of special characters and encryption. Please include “Attn: RIN 1018-AH70” and your name and return address in your e-mail message. If you do not receive a confirmation from the system that we have received your e-mail message, contact us directly by calling our Pacific Islands Office at phone number 808/541-3441. Please note that the e-mail address will be closed out at the termination of the public comment period.

3. You may hand-deliver written comments to our Pacific Islands Office at 300 Ala Moana Blvd., Room 3-122, Honolulu, HI.

Our practice is to make comments, including names and home addresses of respondents, available for public review during regular business hours. Respondents may request that we withhold their home address, which we will honor to the extent allowable by law. There also may be circumstances in which we would withhold a respondent's identity, as allowable by law. If you wish us to withhold your name and/or address, you must state this request prominently at the beginning of your comment. However, we will not consider anonymous comments. To the extent consistent with applicable law, we will make all submissions from organizations or businesses, and from individuals identifying themselves as representatives or officials of organizations or businesses, available for public inspection in their entirety. Comments and materials received will be available for public inspection, by appointment, during normal business hours at the above address.

Peer Review

In accordance with our policy published on July 1, 1994 (59 FR 34270), we will seek the expert opinions of at least three appropriate and independent specialists regarding this proposed rule. The purpose of such review is to ensure listing and critical habitat decisions are based on scientifically sound data, assumptions, and analyses. We will send copies of this proposed rule to these peer reviewers immediately following publication in the Federal Register. We will invite the peer reviewers to comment, during the public comment period, on the specific assumptions and conclusions regarding the proposed designations of critical habitat.

We will consider all comments and data received during the 60-day comment period on this proposed rule during preparation of a final rulemaking. Accordingly, the final decision may differ from this proposal.

Clarity of the Rule

Executive Order 12866 requires each agency to write regulations and notices that are easy to understand. We invite your comments on how to make this proposed rule easier to understand including answers to questions such as the following: (1) Are the requirements in the proposed rule clearly stated? (2) Does the proposed rule contain technical language or jargon that interferes with the clarity? (3) Does the format of the proposed rule (grouping and order of sections, use of headings, paragraphing, etc.) aid or reduce its clarity? (4) Is the description of the proposed rule in the “Supplementary Information” section of the preamble helpful in understanding the document? (5) What else could we do to make the proposed rule easier to understand?

Send a copy of any comments that concern how we could make this notice easier to understand to: Office of Regulatory Affairs, Department of the Interior, Room 7229, 1849 C Street, NW., Washington, DC 20240. You may e-mail your comments to this address: Execsec@ios.doi.gov.

Required Determinations

Regulatory Planning and Review

In accordance with Executive Order 12866, this action was submitted for review by the Office of Management and Budget (OMB). We are in the process of preparing an economic analysis to determine the economic consequences of designating the specific areas identified as critical habitat. If our economic analysis reveals that the economic impacts of designating any area as critical habitat outweigh the benefits of designation, we may exclude those areas from consideration, unless such exclusion will result in the extinction of the species.

(a) While we will prepare an economic analysis to assist us in considering whether areas should be excluded pursuant to section 4 of the Act at this time, we do not believe this rule will have an annual economic effect of $100 million or adversely affect an economic sector, productivity, jobs, the environment, or other units of government. Therefore we do not believe a cost benefit and economic analysis pursuant to Executive Order 12866 is required.

The 50 plants were listed as endangered or threatened species between the years 1991 and 1999. The areas proposed for critical habitat are currently occupied by one or more of these species. Under section 7 of the Act, critical habitat may not be destroyed or adversely modified by a Federal agency action; it does not impose any restrictions on non-Federal persons unless they are conducting activities funded or otherwise sponsored or permitted by a Federal agency (see Table 6).

Section 7 also requires Federal agencies to ensure that they do not jeopardize the continued existence of the species. Based on our experience, due to the limited number of individuals and populations, and limited range, we conclude that any Federal action or authorized action that could potentially cause an adverse modification of the proposed critical habitat for any of these 50 species would also likely cause “jeopardy” to that species. Accordingly, the designation of currently occupied areas as critical habitat would not have any additional incremental impacts on what actions may or may not be conducted by Federal agencies or non-Federal persons that receive Federal authorization or funding. Non-Federal persons that do not have a Federal involvement in their actions are not restricted by the designation of critical habitat.

(b) This rule will not create inconsistencies with other agencies' actions. As discussed above, Federal agencies have been required to ensure that their actions not jeopardize the continued existence of the 50 plant species since their listing between 1991 and 1999. The prohibition against adverse modification of critical habitat would not be expected to impose any additional restrictions to those that currently exist because all proposed critical habitat is currently occupied.

(c) This rule will not materially affect entitlements, grants, user fees, loan programs, or the rights and obligations of their recipients. Federal agencies are currently required to ensure that their activities do not jeopardize the continued existence of the species, and as discussed above we do not anticipate that the adverse modification prohibition resulting from critical habitat designation will have any incremental effects.

(d) This rule will not raise novel legal or policy issues. The proposed rule follows the requirements for determining critical habitat contained in the Endangered Species Act.

Regulatory Flexibility Act (5 U.S.C. 601 et seq.)

In the economic analysis, we will determine whether designation of critical habitat will have a significant effect on a substantial number of small entities. As discussed under Regulatory Planning and Review above, this rule is not expected to result in any restrictions in addition to those currently in existence. As indicated on Table 5 (see “Methods for Selection of Areas for Proposed Critical Habitat Designations”) we have designated property owned by Federal and State governments, and private property.

Within these areas, the types of Federal actions or authorized activities that we have identified as potential concerns are:

(1) Regulation of activities affecting waters of the United States by the Army Corps of Engineers under section 404 of the Clean Water Act;

(2) Development on private or State lands requiring permits from other Federal agencies such as Housing and Urban Development;

(3) Federally funded silviculture/forestry projects and research and research by the U.S. Department of Agriculture (Forest Service);

(4) Regulation of airport improvement activities by the Federal Aviation Administration jurisdiction;

(5) Road construction and maintenance by, or funded by, the U.S. Department of Transportation;

(6) Military training or similar activities of the U.S. Department of Defense (Hawaii Army National Guard) on lands under their jurisdiction;

(7) Unexploded ordnance clean-up or similar activities of the U.S. Department of Defense (Navy) or their contractors on the island of Kahoolawe;

(8) Federally funded importation of alien species for research, agriculture, and aquiculture, and the release or authorization of release of biological control agents by the U.S. Department of Agriculture;

(9) Regulation of activities affecting point source pollution discharges into waters of the United States by the Environmental Protection Agency under section 402 of the Clean Water Act;

(10) Hazard mitigation and post-disaster repairs funded by the Federal Emergency Management Agency;

(11) Installation and maintenance of U.S. Coast Guard navigational aids;

(12) Construction of communication sites licensed by the Federal Communications Commission; and

(13) Activities not mentioned above funded or authorized by the U.S. Department of Agriculture (Forest Service, Natural Resources Conservation Service), Department of Defense, Department of Transportation, Department of Energy, Department of Interior (U.S. Geological Survey, National Park Service), Department of Commerce (National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration) or any other Federal agency.

Many of these activities authorized or funded by Federal agencies within the proposed critical habitat areas are carried out by small entities (as defined by the Regulatory Flexibility Act) through contract, grant, permit, or other Federal authorization. As discussed in section 1 above, these actions are currently required to comply with the protections of the Act that are triggered by listing, such as avoiding jeopardy to these species, and the designation of critical habitat is not anticipated to have any additional effects on these activities.

For actions on non-Federal property that do not have a Federal connection (such as funding or authorization), the current State restrictions concerning take of listed threatened or endangered plant species remain in effect, and this rule would impose no additional restrictions.

Small Business Regulatory Enforcement Fairness Act (5 U.S.C. 804(2)).

In the economic analysis, we will determine whether designation of critical habitat will cause (a) any effect on the economy of $100 million or more, (b) any increases in costs or prices for consumers, individual industries, Federal, State, or local government agencies, or geographic regions in the economic analysis, or (c) any significant adverse effects on competition, employment, investment, productivity, innovation, or the ability of U.S.-based enterprises to compete with foreign-based enterprises.

Unfunded Mandates Reform Act (2 U.S.C. 1501 et seq.)

In accordance with the Unfunded Mandates Reform Act (2 U.S.C. 1501 et seq.):

(a) This rule will not “significantly or uniquely” affect small governments. A Small Government Agency Plan is not required. Small governments will only be affected to the extent that any Federal agency that funds, permits or other authorized activities must ensure that their actions will not adversely affect the critical habitat. However, as discussed in section 1, these actions are currently subject to equivalent restrictions through the listing protections of the species, and no further restrictions are anticipated.

(b) This rule will not produce a Federal mandate of $100 million or greater in any year, that is, it is not a “significant regulatory action” under the Unfunded Mandates Reform Act. The designation of critical habitat imposes no obligations on State or local governments.

Takings

In accordance with Executive Order 12630, this rule does not have significant takings implications. A takings implication assessment is not required. As discussed above, the designation of critical habitat affects only Federal agency actions. The rule will not increase or decrease the current restrictions on private property concerning take of these 50 plant species. We do not anticipate that property values will be affected by the critical habitat designations. Landowners in areas that are included in the designated critical habitat will continue to have opportunity to utilize their property in ways consistent with State law and with the continued survival of the plant species.

Federalism

In accordance with Executive Order 13132, the rule does not have significant Federalism effects. A Federalism assessment is not required. As discussed above, the designation of critical habitat in areas currently occupied by the 50 plant species would have little incremental impact on State and local governments and their activities. The designations may have some benefit to these governments in that the areas essential to the conservation of these species are more clearly defined, and the primary constituent elements of the habitat necessary to the survival of the species are identified. While this definition and identification does not alter where and what federally sponsored activities may occur, it may assist these local governments in long range planning rather than waiting for case-by-case section 7 consultation to occur.

Civil Justice Reform

In accordance with Executive Order 12988, the Office of the Solicitor has determined that the rule does not unduly burden the judicial system and meets the requirements of sections 3(a) and 3(b)(2) of the Order. We designate critical habitat in accordance with the provisions of the Endangered Species Act. The rule uses standard property descriptions and identifies the primary constituent elements within the designated areas to assist the public in understanding the habitat needs of the plant species.

Paperwork Reduction Act of 1995 (44 U.S.C. 3501 et seq.)

This rule does not contain any information collection requirements for which OMB approval under the Paperwork Reduction Act is required.

National Environmental Policy Act

We have determined that an Environmental Assessment and/or an Environmental Impact Statement as defined by the National Environmental Policy Act of 1969 need not be prepared in connection with regulations adopted pursuant to section 4(a) of the Act, as amended. A notice outlining our reason for this determination was published in the Federal Register on October 25, 1983 (48 FR 49244). This proposed rule does not constitute a major Federal action significantly affecting the quality of the human environment.

Government-to-Government Relationship with Tribes

In accordance with the President's memorandum of April 29, 1994, “Government-to-Government Relations with Native American Tribal Governments” (59 FR 22951) and 512 DM 2, we understand that Federally recognized Tribes must be related to on a Government-to-Government basis. The 1997 Secretarial Order on Native Americans and the Act clearly states that Tribal lands should not be designated unless absolutely necessary for the conservation of the species. According to the Secretarial Order, “Critical habitat shall not be designated in an area that may impact Tribal trust resources unless it is determined essential to conserve a listed species. In designating critical habitat, the Services shall evaluate and document the extent to which the conservation needs of a listed species can be achieved by limiting the designation to other lands.”

We determined that no Tribal lands are essential for the conservation of the plant species discussed in this proposed ruler because they do not support populations or suitable habitat. Therefore, we are not proposing to designate critical habitat for these species on Tribal lands.

References Cited

A complete list of all references cited in this proposed rule is available upon request from the Pacific Islands Ecoregion Office (see ADDRESSES section).

Authors

The primary authors of this notice are Christa Russell, Michelle Stephens, and Marigold Zoll of the Pacific Islands Field Office (see ADDRESSES section).

List of Subjects in 50 CFR Part 17

• Endangered and threatened species
• Exports
• Imports
• Reporting and record-keeping requirements
• Transportation

Proposed Regulation Promulgation

Accordingly, we propose 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. In § 17.12(h) revise the entries for Alectryon macrococcus, Bidens micrantha ssp. kalealaha, Bonamia menziesii, Cenchrus agrimonioides, Centaurium sebaeoides, Clermontia lindseyana, Clermontia oblongifolia ssp. mauiensis, Clermontia samuelii, Colubrina oppositifolia, Cyanea copelandii ssp. haleakalaensis, Cyanea glabra, Cyanea grimesiana ssp. grimesiana, Cyanea hamatiflora ssp. hamatiflora, Cyanea lobata, Cyanea mceldowneyi, Cyrtandra munroi, Dubautia plantaginea ssp. humilis, Flueggea neowawraea, Geranium arboreum, Geranium multiflorum, Hedyotis coriacea, Hedyotis mannii, Hesperomannia arborescens, Hesperomannia arbuscula, Hibiscus brackenridgei, Ischaemum byrone, Kanaloa kahoolawensis, Lipochaeta kamolensis, Lysimachia lydgatei, Mariscus pennatiformis, Melicope adscendens, Melicope knudsenii, Melicope (=Pelea) mucronulata, Neraudia sericea, Peucedanum sandwicense, Phyllostegia mollis, Plantago princeps, Platanthera holochila, Remya mauiensis, Sanicula purpurea, Sesbania tomentosa, Spermolepis hawaiiensis, Tetramolopium capillare, Vigna o-wahuensis, and Zanthoxylum hawaiiense under “FLOWERING PLANTS” and Ctenitis squamigera, Diellia erecta, Diplazium molokaiense, Phlegmariurus (=Lycopodium, =Huperzia) mannii, and Pteris lidgatei under “FERNS AND ALLIES” to read as follows: