Rediscovery, conservation status and taxonomic assessment of Melicope degeneri (Rutaceae), Kaua'i, Hawai'i

Abstract

Melicope degeneri (B. Stone) T. Hartley & B. Stone is endemic to the island of Kaua'i and is one of Hawai'i's rare members of the Rutaceae. Rediscovered in 1993 after not being documented for 67 yr, it is currently known from only 22 individuals. Data concerning its morphology, distribution, and ecological preferences are presented in this paper in order to contribute to the Global Strategy for Plant Conservation (GSPC) goals and to assist biologists and land managers in monitoring and protecting this species from extinction. A formal IUCN assessment of the species has been completed and is reported here as Critically Endangered (CR B2ab(iii,v); D). © Inter-Research 2011.