Schiedea obovata
Overview
Schiedea obovata is a species of flowering plant in the family Caryophyllaceae. It is a shrub endemic to the island of Oahu in the Hawaiian Islands, where it grows in lowland moist forests from 550 to 800 meters elevation. There are only 38 plants in the single known population, and the species is assessed as Critically Endangered. It is threatened by habitat loss.
Schiedea obovata faces severe threats from invasive plant species that outcompete this endemic Hawaiian shrub for resources and habitat space. Habitat degradation from feral ungulates, particularly pigs and goats, has destroyed much of its native dry forest ecosystem through trampling and browsing. The species' extremely limited population size and restricted range on the Hawaiian Islands make it highly vulnerable to stochastic events and genetic bottlenecks.
Habitat
Schiedea obovata inhabits dry to mesic forests and shrublands in the Hawaiian Islands, typically growing on volcanic slopes and ridges at moderate elevations. This endemic species is adapted to the unique microclimatic conditions of Hawaii's native forest ecosystems.
Conservation measures underway
Other threatened species in CARYOPHYLLACEAE
Threatened in United States
Frequently asked questions
Why is Schiedea obovata classified as Critically Endangered?
Where does Schiedea obovata live?
What are the main threats to Schiedea obovata?
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