Observations on the life history of the endangered Hawaiian vetch (Vicia menziesii) (Fabaceae) and its use by birds

Author:

Ralph, C. J.

Title:

Observations on the life history of the endangered Hawaiian vetch (Vicia menziesii) (Fabaceae) and its use by birds

Periodical:

Pacific Science

Year:

1980

Volume:

34

Pages:

83-92

Subject:

Hawaiian vetch Rare plants

Summary:

The Hawaiian vetch (Vicia menziesee Sprengel) is one of the rarest plants in the world. Belonging to the pea family, this a vine species does not grow flowers until 2 to 3 years of age but flowers prolifically and can grow to 10 meters. However, due to its palatability, it is susceptible to herbivore damage which is likely a limiting factor in its limited distribution. While the vetch was officially listed as "endangered" in 1978 by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, virtually nothing was know about the life history of this plant but it was felt that it was likely a very important food sources for native birds prior to the arrival of herbivorous mammals. This study documents several aspects of the biology of the Hawaiian vetch in the hope that it may help in the management and recovery of this rare species.

Label:

Botany

URL:

http://hdl.handle.net/10125/1545

Date:

1980

Collection:

Periodicals