Endangered Plants: White Molokai Hibiscus

 White Molokai Hibiscus 

Hibiscus Arnottianus ssp. immaculatus

Hibiscus arnotttianus, also known as the White Molokai hibiscus, is a rare and endangered subspecies of the Hawainn white hibiscus. The perennial shrub can grow up to 10 meters tall but averages 9 meters in height. It has many Hawaiian names, including Aloalo, Hau hele, Kokio kea, Kokio Keeokeoo, and Pamakani. This subspecies stands apart from other subspecies of Hibiscus because of its white petals and white staminal column. 

Habitat

Hibiscus arnottianus ssp immaculatus is endemic to the island of Molokai in Hawaii and grows in mesic to wet forests. Its current range is extremely limited, with only a few known locations on Molokai. 

The range is highlighted in dark green on the island

The island of Molokai, Hawaii, is in red

Role and Decline

The White Molokai hibiscus plays an integral role in its native ecosystem in Hawaii. It is a pollinator flower, providing nectar for native Hawaiian birds and insects. Providing nectar and supporting pollinators contributes to the overall health and biodiversity of its ecosystem. However, it has declined and become endangered, putting its ecosystem in danger. Its important to conserve this plant as it can lead to a domino effect within its ecosystem, the biodiversity of the island could collapse if pollinators cannot harvest nectar. The decline of the White Molokai hibiscus is partly due to habitat destruction, invasive species, and climate change. Habitat destruction includes acts like urban development, deforestation, and agricultural presence. The hibiscus also has a limited range, making it more vulnerable to habitat disturbances. 

Conservation

Conservation efforts to mitigate the endangerment of the White Molokai hibiscus have been put into action. Habitat restoration, legal protection, and research are among these conservation efforts. One of these efforts is invasive species management, intended to remove non-native plants competing with the hibiscus for resources. The Endangered Species Act (ESA) was implemented to legally protect endangered species, including the Hibiscus arnottianus ssp. immaculatus. Using Geographic Information Systems (GIS) and remote sensing can aid in conserving the White Molokai hibiscus. GIS can be used to create detailed maps of the hibiscus's current and historical habitats to monitor the population changes and use these to identify the areas most at risk and better prioritize them. Remote sensing can be used to assess habitat quality, monitor its habitat's health from satellite or aerial imagery, and study the impact of climate change on the hibiscus 's habitat. 

How You Can Help!

• Donate to Conservation Organizations
• The Nature Conversancy's Hawaii Program 
• Laukahi Network: The Hawai'i Plant Conservation Network 
• Promote Awareness
• Educate others on the importance of conserving the Hawaiian hibiscus and its ecosystem. 
• Sustainable Practices
• Advocate for land use policies that protect native ecosystems
• Use eco-friendly products that are environmentally friendly
• Reduce Your Carbon Footprint
• Minimize your impact on climate change by considering energy and using public transportation or carpool
• Volunteer for Habitat Restoration Projects
• Find programs in Hawaii that contribute to the conservation efforts of the ecosystem and the White Molokai hibiscus.