Distribution and status of Vicia menziesii Spreng. (Leguminosae): Hawai'i's first officially listed endangered plant species

Biological Conservation
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Abstract

Vicia menziesii Spreng., Hawai'i's first officially listed endangered plant species, formerly occurred across a large area in the upper montane-mesic forest habitat on the windward side of the island of Hawai'i. Until this species was ‘rediscovered’ in 1974, it had last been seen in 1915, and it was presumed to be extinct. The population is presently thought to number 150–300 plants, most of which are seedlings. These are located within a 200 ha area on the eastern flank of Mauna Loa volcano.

The primary factors responsible for the decline of V. menziesii are habitat loss and excessive predation on the plants by introduced ungulates. Continued logging and cattle grazing within its remnant range are major threats to its existence. Enhancing the survival of V. menziesii may best be accomplished by stabilizing its remaining habitat and allowing the population to reestablish itself naturally.

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Publication type Article
Publication Subtype Journal Article
Title Distribution and status of Vicia menziesii Spreng. (Leguminosae): Hawai'i's first officially listed endangered plant species
Series title Biological Conservation
DOI 10.1016/0006-3207(82)90034-9
Volume 23
Issue 2
Year Published 1982
Language English
Publisher Elsevier
Contributing office(s) Patuxent Wildlife Research Center
Description 16 p.
First page 111
Last page 126
Country United States
State Hawai'i
Other Geospatial Hawai'i, Mauna Loa Volcano
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