Geniostoma kaalae
Overview
A detailed profile for this species is sourced from the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species as assessments become available.
Geniostoma kaalae faces severe habitat degradation from invasive plant species that alter native forest composition and structure. Feral ungulates, particularly pigs and goats, damage the understory vegetation and create erosion that degrades the mesic forest ecosystem this endemic Hawaiian species requires. Urban development and agricultural expansion continue to fragment remaining suitable habitat across its limited range on Oahu.
Habitat
This endemic Hawaiian shrub inhabits mesic forests on the island of Oahu, typically found in native mixed forests at mid-elevations. It grows in the understory of forests dominated by native trees like koa and ohia, requiring the specific moisture and light conditions of intact Hawaiian mesic forest ecosystems.