Endangered and Threatened Wildlife and Plants; Endangered Status for 49 Species From the Hawaiian Islands
Final rule.
CFR Part: "50 CFR Part 17"
RIN Number: "RIN 1018-BB07"
Citation: "81 FR 67786"
Document Number: "Docket No. FWS-R1-ES-2015-0125; 4500030113"
Page Number: "67786"
"Rules and Regulations"
SUMMARY: We, the
EFFECTIVE DATE: This rule is effective
ADDRESSES: This final rule is available on the
FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT:
SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION:
Executive Summary
Why we need to publish a rule. Under the Endangered Species Act (Act), a species may warrant protection through listing if it is endangered or threatened throughout all or a significant portion of its range. Listing a species as an endangered or threatened species can only be completed by issuing a rule. Critical habitat is to be designated, to the maximum extent prudent and determinable, for any species determined to be an endangered or threatened species under the Act.
This rule makes final the listing of 10 animal species (the Hawaii DPS of the band-rumped storm-petrel (Oceanodroma castro), the orangeblack Hawaiian damselfly (Megalagrion xanthomelas), the anchialine pool shrimp (Procaris hawaiana), and seven yellow-faced bees (Hylaeus anthracinus, H. assimulans, H. facilis, H. hilaris, H. kuakea, H. longiceps, and H. mana)), and 39 plant species (Asplenium diellaciniatum (no common name, NCN), Calamagrostis expansa (
Delineation of critical habitat requires identification of the physical or biological features essential to the species' conservation. A careful assessment of the biological needs of the species and the areas that may have the physical or biological features essential for the conservation of the species and that may require special management considerations or protections, and thus qualify for designation as critical habitat, is required. We require additional time to analyze the best available scientific data in order to identify specific areas appropriate for critical habitat designation and to analyze the impacts of designating such areas as critical habitat. Accordingly, we find designation of critical habitat to be "not determinable" at this time.
The basis for our action. Under the Act, we can determine that a species is an endangered or threatened species based on any of five factors: (A) The present or threatened destruction, modification, or curtailment of its habitat or range; (B) overutilization for commercial, recreational, scientific, or educational purposes; (C) disease or predation; (D) the inadequacy of existing regulatory mechanisms; or (E) other natural or manmade factors affecting its continued existence. We have determined that these 49 species are experiencing population-level impacts as the result of the following current and ongoing threats:
. Habitat loss and degradation due to urbanization; nonnative feral ungulates (hoofed mammals, e.g., pigs, goats, axis deer, black-tailed deer, mouflon, and cattle); nonnative plants; wildfire; and water extraction.
. Predation or herbivory by nonnative feral ungulates, rats, slugs, bullfrogs, Jackson's chameleons, ants, and wasps.
. Stochastic events such as landslides, flooding, drought, tsunami, and hurricanes.
. Human activities such as recreational use of anchialine pools, dumping of nonnative fish and trash into anchialine pools, and manmade structures and artificial lighting.
. Vulnerability to extinction due to small numbers of individuals and occurrences and lack of regeneration.
. Competition with nonnative plants and nonnative invertebrates.
Existing regulatory mechanisms and conservation efforts are not adequate to ameliorate the impacts of these threats on any of the 49 species such that listing is not warranted. Environmental effects from climate change are likely to exacerbate the impacts of these threats.
Peer review and public comment. We sought comments from independent specialists to ensure that our designation is based on scientifically sound data, assumptions, and analyses. We invited these peer reviewers to comment on our listing proposal. We also considered all comments and information we received during two comment periods, including at one public hearing.
Previous Federal Actions
Please refer to the proposed listing rule for the 49 species from the Hawaiian Islands (80 FR 58820;
Summary of Comments and Recommendations
On
During the comment periods, we received a total of 41 unique public comment letters (including comments received at the public hearing) on the proposed listing of the 49 species. Of the 41 commenters, 21 were peer reviewers, 3 were Federal agencies (
All substantive information related to the listing action provided during the comment periods has either been incorporated directly into this final rule, or is addressed below. For readers' convenience, we have combined similar comments into a single comment and response.
Peer Review
In accordance with our peer review policy published in the
(1) Comment: One peer reviewer stated that sea-level rise and coastal inundation collectively are also potential future threats to the welfare of Procaris hawaiana, because they may cause further loss of anchialine pool habitat.
Our Response: We have added sea-level rise and coastal inundation as threats to P. hawaiana and its habitat under the discussion in this rule titled "Climate Change" (Factor E. Other Natural or Manmade Factors Affecting Their Continued Existence).
(2) Comment: One peer reviewer stated that because sea-level rise could increase surface connectivity between currently isolated anchialine pools, invasion by nonnative fish would be exacerbated.
Our Response: In this rule, we have added surface connectivity to our summary description of the status and stressors to P. hawaiana as a factor likely to exacerbate the threat posed by nonnative fish to this species and its anchialine pool habitat (see Anchialine pool shrimp (Procaris hawaiana), under Summary of Biological Status of the 49 Hawaiian Islands Species).
(3) Comment: One peer reviewer recommended that the island of
Our Response: We have added coastal habitat on
(4) Comment: One peer reviewer recommended that coastal habitat on leeward east
Our Response: We understand that coastal habitat on east
(5) Comment: One peer reviewer stated that predation by bullfrogs (Lithobates catesbeianus) should be included as a threat to the orangeblack Hawaiian damselfly, and that impacts of backswimmers (Notonectidae family) and caddisflies (Trichoptera order) on the damselfly are speculative.
Our Response: We have included in this final rule that bullfrogs are a threat to the orangeblack Hawaiian damselfly, and clarified that the effects of predation by backswimmers and caddisflies are not well understood.
Comments From State Agencies
(6) Comment:
Our Response: We appreciate the information provided regarding the 49 plant species from the Hawaiian Islands, and have incorporated it into the Summary of Biological Status of the 49 Hawaiian Islands Species for the appropriate species in this final rule.
(7) Comment:
Our Response: We agree that managing and controlling ungulates would provide significant conservation benefits to listed plant and animal species, and would also prevent erosion and protect water quality of the islands and near shore reefs. We also acknowledge that nonnative grasses contribute to the increase in numbers and intensity of wildfires in
(8) Comment:
Our Response: We appreciate this support for the proposed listing of the anchialine pool shrimp, Procaris hawaiana.
(9) Comment:
Our Response: In accordance with the President's memorandum of
Public Comments
Seven public commenters supported listing of all 49 Hawaiian Islands species. Seven public commenters opposed the listing of the 49 Hawaiian Islands species, and one of these commenters supported the intent of listing but opposed designation of critical habitat on their lands.
(10) Comment: One commenter supported this rule because of the facts and analysis stated in the proposed rule. Two commenters stated that humans need to be a voice for plants and animals, and that this listing will positively impact the conservation of many animals and positively lead other conversations in the right direction.
Our Response: We appreciate the comments and believe that listing status will help provide conservation benefits to the species and their habitats.
(11) Comment: One commenter stated that the 49 species also play a pivotal role in promoting tourism and building the economy of
Our Response: We do not consider economic consequences in our decisions to list or not list species as endangered or threatened under the Act. Section 4(b)(1)(a) of the Act specifies that listing determinations be made "solely on the basis of the best scientific and commercial data available."
(12) Comment: One commenter stated that the potential negative impacts of listing to landowners is very small, as the vast majority of the habitat for these rare species occurs on State and Federal lands, or in private lands devoted to conservation.
Our Response: We agree that many of the 49 species occur or were known from State and Federal lands, or in undeveloped areas already dedicated to conservation. However, listing a species as endangered or threatened is based on the species' biological status; the development of a proposed rule for critical habitat for these species will be completed in a separate rule, and the effects of critical habitat on landowners will be analyzed upon preparation of that proposed rule.
(13) Comment: One commenter stated that island residents have entirely lost historical and cultural opportunities and rights as a result of species protection enforcement and that those in the field of endangered species protection have a single focus, with little or no concern for cultural and historical values. Another commenter stated that this listing would cause a further loss for the public of cultural, historical, and economic resources. A third commenter stated that native Hawaiian society believes they should be able to manage their people, land, and resources autonomously.
Our Response: Listing a species as endangered or threatened does not cause loss of historical and cultural opportunities; in fact, it highlights the need to protect the characteristics that are unique to the Hawaiian Islands. We acknowledge that some economic impacts are a possible consequence of listing a species under the Act; for example, there may be costs to the landowner associated with the development of a habitat conservation plan (HCP). In other cases, if the landowner does not acquire a permit for incidental take (for animals), the landowner may choose to forego certain activities on their property to avoid violating the Act, resulting in potential lost income. However, the Act does not provide for the consideration of such impacts when making a listing decision. Section 4(b)(1)(a) of the Act specifies that listing determinations be made "solely on the basis of the best scientific and commercial data available." The language provided by
(14) Comment: Four commenters were concerned that listing a species would entail removal of nonnative species with cultural significance, or removal of those used for food and sport hunting, and that control of nonnative ungulates would not be conducted humanely.
Our Response: Habitat destruction and modification by ungulates is a threat to 37 of the 39 plants, and to 9 of the 10 animals proposed for listing. Herbivory by ungulates is a threat to 27 of the 39 plants proposed for listing.
(15) Comment: One commenter stated that once species are listed for protection under the Act, there is no public recourse.
Our Response: There is public recourse after a rulemaking is published in the
(16) Comment: Two commenters expressed concern that the magnitude of the proposed listing rule and the subsequent designation of critical habitat will have negative effects on
Our Response: We understand there is confusion and concern about the effects of listing the 49 multi-island species. Listing provides certain protections to the species under the Act. Section 7 of the Act states that each Federal agency (through consultation) shall insure that any action authorized, funded, or carried out by the agency is not likely to jeopardize the continued existence of any endangered or threatened species. For endangered species of fish or wildlife, section 9 of the Act prohibits any person subject to the jurisdiction of
(17) Comment: Two commenters stated that listing species and designating critical habitat on private property in
Our Response: This rule only addresses the listing of 49 species from the Hawaiian Islands and does not designate critical habitat. We agree that partnerships can provide benefits for listed species and their habitat through development of conservation plans and implementation of management actions.
(18) Comment: One commenter stated that the Service should include the public now, not after designating critical habitat, with outreach, public forums, presentations, and meetings on every island for community groups, industry and business groups, the Soil and Water Conservation Districts, the
Our Response: As described above, the publication of the proposed listing rule did not include a critical habitat proposal. We opened a 60-day comment period on the proposed listing rule, obtained extensive peer review, published notices in numerous local newspapers, reopened the comment period, and held a public hearing and information meeting. We considered all comments we received in preparing this final listing rule, and this rule incorporates new, substantive information provided to us by commenters.
Summary of Changes From the Proposed Rule
In preparing this final rule, we reviewed and fully considered comments from the public and peer reviewers on the proposed rule, and incorporated the following substantive changes into this final rule. None of the new information we received changed our evaluation of the threats to these species or our determinations in this final rule that they are endangered.
(1) We made revisions to the demographic status or distribution of 31 species of plants, based on comments from peer reviewers, by correcting current locations or numbers of individuals for: Asplenium diellaciniatum, Calamagrostis expansa, Cyanea kauaulaensis, Cyclosorus boydiae, Cyrtandra hematos, Dryopteris glabra var. pusilla, Exocarpos menziesii, Gardenia remyi, Huperzia stemmermanniae, Joinvillea ascendens ssp. ascendens, Kadua fluviatilis, Microlepia strigosa var. mauiensis, Myrsine fosbergii, Nothocestrum latifolium, Ochrosia haleakalae, Phyllostegia brevidens, P. helleri, P. stachyoides, Portulaca villosa, Pritchardia bakeri, Pseudognaphalium sandwicensium var. molokaiense, Ranunculus hawaiensis, R. mauiensis, Sanicula sandwicensis, Santalum involutum, Schiedea diffusa ssp. diffusa, S. pubescens, Sicyos lanceoloideus, S. macrophyllus, Stenogyne kaalae ssp. sherffii, and Wikstroemia skottsbergiana.
(2) We made revisions to specific threats to 31 plant species, based on comments from peer reviewers, including: Asplenium diellaciniatum, Calamagrostis expansa, Cyanea kauaulaensis, Cyclosorus boydiae, Cyperus neokunthianus, Cyrtandra hematos, Deparia kaalaana, Dryopteris glabra var. pusilla, Exocarpos menziesii, Huperzia stemmermanniae, Hypolepis hawaiiensis var. mauiensis, Joinvillea ascendens ssp. ascendens, Kadua fluviatilis, K. haupuensis, Labordia lorenciana, Lepidium orbiculare, Microlepia strigosa var. mauiensis, Myrsine fosbergii, Nothocestrum latifolium, Ochrosia haleakalae, Phyllostegia brevidens, P. helleri, P. stachyoides, Portulaca villosa, Sanicula sandwicensis, Santalum involutum, Schiedea diffusa ssp. diffusa, S. pubescens, Sicyos lanceoloideus, Solanum nelsonii, and Wikstroemia skottsbergiana.
(3) We corrected the taxonomy for the nonnative plant,
(4) We added further references concerning genetic research that supports differences in populations of the band-rumped storm-petrel breeding in different oceans and archipelagos.
(5) We added additional information on current nesting sites of the band-rumped storm-petrel on
(6) We added information regarding additional populations of the orangeblack Hawaiian damselfly on
(7) We added information on predation of the orangeblack Hawaiian damselfly by Jackson's chameleons, backswimmers, and bullfrogs as a threat, and predation by the black twig borer as a threat to Labordia lorenciana and Nothocestrum latifolium.
(8) We added competition with caddisflies for resources, prey, and space as a potential threat to the orangeblack Hawaiian damselfly.
(9) We made revisions to the demographic status or distribution of the yellow-faced bees Hylaeus anthracinus, H. facilis, and H. longiceps.
(10) We added tsunami as a threat to the yellow-faced bees that occur in coastal areas (Hylaeus anthracinus, H. assimulans, H. facilis, H. hilaris, and H. longiceps), and to Solanum nelsonii, also in coastal areas.
(11) We changed "Australian colletid" to "alien Hylaeus" bees, and included competition with sweat bees (Lasioglossum spp.) as a threat to the yellow-faced bees.
(12) We noted that transmission of diseases carried by nonnative insects through shared food sources could be a threat to the yellow-faced bees, but we have no specific evidence of this type of disease transmission.
(13) We added drought as a potential threat to all seven yellow-faced bees.
(14) We added infiltration of waste water, fertilizers, or pesticides resulting from development activities as a potential threat to the anchialine pool shrimp.
(15) We added sea-level rise and coastal inundation as a potential threat to Solanum nelsonii, as occurrences in low-lying coastal areas are at risk, and to the anchialine pool shrimp, as these events could increase connectivity of anchialine pools leading to further incursion by nonnative fish from one pool to another.
Background
Please refer to the proposed listing rule for the 49 species from the Hawaiian Islands (80 FR 58820;
. For background information on the Hawaii Islands, see "The Hawaiian Islands" under Background;
. For ecosystem descriptions, see An Ecosystem-Based Approach To Assessing the Conservation Status of the 49 Species in the Hawaiian Islands;
. For detailed descriptions of the species and their taxonomy, see Description of the 49 Hawaiian Islands Species.
Hawaiian Islands Species Addressed in This Final Rule
Table 1A (plants) and Table 1B (animals), below, provide the common name, scientific name, and range (by
Table 1A--Plant Species Listed as Endangered Scientific name Common name Hawaiian Island Plants Asplenium diellaciniatum No common name Kauai. (NCN) Calamagrostis expansa Maui reedgrass Hawaii, Maui. Cyanea kauaulaensis NCN Maui. Cyclosorus boydiae kupukupu Hawaii (H), Maui, Oahu. makalii Cyperus neokunthianus NCN Maui (H). Cyrtandra hematos haiwale Molokai. Deparia kaalaana NCN Hawaii (H), Maui, Kauai (H). Dryopteris glabra var. pusilla hohiu Kauai. Exocarpos menziesii heau Hawaii, Lanai (H). Festuca hawaiiensis NCN Hawaii, Maui (H). Gardenia remyi nanu Hawaii, Maui, Molokai, Kauai. Huperzia stemmermanniae NCN Hawaii, Maui (H). Hypolepis hawaiiensis var. olua Maui. mauiensis Joinvillea ascendens ssp. ohe Hawaii, Maui, Molokai, Oahu, ascendens Kauai. Kadua fluviatilis kamapuaa Oahu, Kauai. Kadua haupuensis NCN Kauai (H). Labordia lorenciana NCN Kauai. Lepidium orbiculare anaunau Kauai. Microlepia strigosa var. NCN Hawaii, Maui, Oahu. mauiensis Myrsine fosbergii kolea Oahu, Kauai. Nothocestrum latifolium aiea Maui, Lanai (H), Molokai, Oahu, Kauai (H). Ochrosia haleakalae holei Hawaii, Maui. Phyllostegia brevidens NCN Hawaii, Maui. Phyllostegia helleri NCN Kauai. Phyllostegia stachyoides NCN Hawaii (H), Maui, Molokai. Portulaca villosa ihi Hawaii, Maui, Kahoolawe, Lanai (H), Molokai, Oahu (H), Kaula (H), Lehua (H), Nihoa (H). Pritchardia bakeri Baker's loulu Oahu. Pseudognaphalium sandwicensium enaena Maui, Lanai (H), Molokai, Oahu var. molokaiense (H). Ranunculus hawaiensis makou Hawaii, Maui (H). Ranunculus mauiensis makou Hawaii (H), Maui, Molokai (H), Oahu (H), Kauai. Sanicula sandwicensis NCN Hawaii, Maui. Santalum involutum iliahi Kauai. Schiedea diffusa ssp. diffusa NCN Maui, Molokai (H). Schiedea pubescens maolioli Maui, Lanai (H), Molokai. Sicyos lanceoloideus anunu Oahu, Kauai. Sicyos macrophyllus anunu Hawaii, Maui (H). Solanum nelsonii popolo Hawaii, Maui (H), Molokai, Niihau (H), Pearl & Hermes, Kure, Midway, Laysan, Nihoa. Stenogyne kaalae ssp. sherffii NCN Oahu (H). Wikstroemia skottsbergiana akia Kauai. (H) = historically known from island, but not observed in the past 20 years.
Table 1B--Animal Species Listed as Endangered Common name Scientific name Hawaiian Island Animals Band-rumped Oceanodroma castro Hawaii, Maui, Kahoolawe, Lanai, storm-petrel Molokai (H), Oahu (H), Kauai, Lehua. Yellow-faced bee Hylaeus Hawaii, Maui, Kahoolawe, Lanai (H), anthracinus Molokai, Oahu. Yellow-faced bee Hylaeus assimulans Maui, Kahoolawe, Lanai, Oahu (H). Yellow-faced bee Hylaeus facilis Maui (H), Lanai (H), Molokai, Oahu. Yellow-faced bee Hylaeus hilaris Maui (H), Lanai (H), Molokai. Yellow-faced bee Hylaeus kuakea Oahu. Yellow-faced bee Hylaeus longiceps Maui, Lanai, Molokai, Oahu. Yellow-faced bee Hylaeus mana Oahu. Orangeblack Megalagrion Hawaii, Maui, Lanai, Molokai, Oahu, Hawaiian damselfly xanthomelas Kauai (H). Anchialine pool Procaris hawaiana Hawaii, Maui. shrimp (H) = Historically known from the island, but not observed in the last 20 years.
Summary of Biological Status of the 49 Hawaiian Islands Species
The Act directs us to determine whether any species is an endangered species or a threatened species because of any one of the factors listed in section 4(a)(1). We summarize, below, the biological condition of, and factors affecting, each of the 49 species and determine whether each species is endangered or threatened. The summaries below include only brief lists of factors affecting each species. Each of these factors is fully considered, in detail, in the subsequent section, Summary of Factors Affecting the 49 Species From the Hawaiian Islands.
Climate Change Vulnerability Assessment for the Hawaiian Plants
Twenty-seven of the plant species described below were evaluated for their vulnerability to climate change as part of a comprehensive vulnerability analysis of native Hawaiian plants, as indicated in Table 2 (Fortini et al. 2013, 134 pp.). This analysis used "climate envelopes" (geographic ranges encompassing suitable climate for each species, as defined by temperature and moisture (Fortini et al. 2013, p. 17)) developed from field records by Price et al. (2012) to project each species' potential range in the year 2100. The location and spatial extent of these future ranges, and their overlap with current ranges, allows calculation of a vulnerability score. Estimates of vulnerability based on climate-envelope modeling are conservative in that they do not take into account potential changes in interspecific interactions such as predation, disease, pollination, or competition. This study provides a landscape- or island-scale picture of potential climate-change vulnerability of Hawaiian plants; the results are less clear at finer spatial scales (Fortini et al. 2013, p. 42). However, all 27 of these plant species scored moderately or extremely vulnerable in the analysis because of their relative inability to exhibit the possible responses necessary for persistence under projected climate change (Fortini et al. 2013, 134 pp.). These responses include the migration response (dispersal and establishment in new areas beyond their current distribution), the microrefugia response (persistence in topographically complex areas that are less exposed), evolutionary adaptation response (morphological changes in response to the changing environment), and toleration response (adaptation to environmental changes through phenotypic plasticity). In the study, response probabilities ranged from 0 (not vulnerable at all) to 1.0 (extremely vulnerable; species likely to disappear or "wink out" by the year 2100) (Fortini et al. 2013, pp. 6-7). Many species found to be moderately vulnerable in this study, with scores of 0.5 or greater, already are listed as endangered; some already are extinct (Fortini et al. 2013, pp. 24, 93). Therefore, because the species in this rule were found by the Fortini et al. (2013) study to be moderately (0.5) to extremely (1.0) vulnerable, we deem the likelihood of their persistence to be low with the impacts of climate change in addition to other threats these species face. The environmental changes associated with climate change are likely to exacerbate these ongoing threats and further reduce the likelihood that these species will persist in the future.
Plants
Asplenium diellaciniatum (no common name, NCN), a terrestrial or epipetric (growing on rocks) fern in the spleenwort family (Aspleniaceae), is endemic to
Feral pigs (Sus scrofa), goats (Capra hircus), and black-tailed deer (Odocoileus hemionus columbianus) modify and destroy the habitat of Asplenium diellaciniatum on
The remaining occurrences of Asplenium diellaciniatum are at risk; A. diellaciniatum numbers are decreasing on
Calamagrostis expansa (
Feral pigs modify and destroy the habitat of Calamagrostis expansa on
The remaining occurrences of Calamagrostis expansa are at risk; C. expansa populations are decreasing on
Cyanea kauaulaensis (NCN), a shrub in the bellflower family (Campanulaceae), is endemic to
The greatest threats to this species currently are the low numbers of occurrences and individuals, its limited range, poor seedling recruitment, and loss of pollinators and dispersal agents (Oppenheimer and Lorence 2012, pp. 20-21; Duvall 2015, in litt.). Rats and slugs are noted as a threat to Cyanea kauaulaensis because of their herbivory and seed predation. Additionally, nonnative plants modify and destroy native habitat and outcompete native species, negatively affecting C. kauaulaensis and its habitat. Although feral ungulates are present on west
Cyclosorus boydiae (previously Christella boydiae) (kupukupu makalii) is a small to medium-sized member of the thelypteroid fern family (Thelypteridaceae) (Pukui and Elbert 1986, p. 186; Palmer 2003, pp. 87-88). Typical habitat for C. boydiae is exposed, rocky, or moss-covered banks of stream courses in dense-wet Metrosideros-Acacia (ohia-koa) forest, from 2,300 to 4,400 ft (700 to 1,350 m), with other native ferns, grasses, and dwarfed woody species, in the lowland wet and montane wet ecosystems (Hillebrand 1888, p. 572; Medeiros et al. 1993, p. 87; Wagner (W.H.) et al. 1999, p. 156; TNCH 2007; HBMP 2010; Gates 2015, in litt.). Historically, this fern was known from near sea level to 4,400 ft (1,350 m) on
Feral pigs modify and destroy the habitat of Cyclosorus boydiae on
The remaining occurrences of Cyclosorus boydiae are at risk; C. boydiae populations are decreasing on
Cyperus neokunthianus (NCN) is a perennial plant in the sedge family (Cyperaceae) (
Feral pigs modify and destroy the habitat of Cyperus neokunthianus on west
Cyperus neokunthianus is at risk and continues to be negatively affected by modification and destruction by nonnative animals and plants (Duvall 2015, in litt.). Because of the threats described above, we find that this species is endangered throughout all of its range, and, therefore, find that it is unnecessary to analyze whether it is endangered or threatened in a significant portion of its range.
Cyrtandra hematos (haiwale), a shrub in the African violet family (Gesneriaceae), is endemic to
Feral pigs and goats modify and destroy the habitat of Cyrtandra hematos on
The remaining occurrences of Cyrtandra hematos are at risk. The known individuals are restricted to a small area on
Deparia kaalaana (NCN), a small, terrestrial fern in the ladyfern family (Athyriaceae), is recognized as a distinct taxon by Palmer (2003, pp. 109-111) and Christenhusz et al. (2012, p. 16). This fern is historically known from the islands of
Feral pigs modify and destroy habitat of Deparia kaalaana by facilitating the spread of nonnative plants, which converts vegetation communities from native to nonnative (Cuddihy and Stone 1990, p. 63; Oppenheimer and Bustamente 2014, p. 106). Ungulates are managed in
The remaining occurrence of Deparia kaalaana is at risk, and both the species and its habitat on
Dryopteris glabra var. pusilla (hohiu) is a small, terrestrial fern in the wood fern family (Dryopteridaceae) (Palmer 2003, p. 144). Habitat for D. glabra var. pusilla is deep shade on rocky, mossy streambanks in wet forest at about 4,000 ft (1,200 m), in the montane wet ecosystem on
Dryopteris glabra var. pusilla is at risk from habitat modification and destruction by nonnative plants, feral pigs, and black-tailed deer (Wood 2015, in litt.). Most individuals occur in the
Fortini et al. (2013, p. 74) found that, as environmental conditions are altered by climate change, D. glabra var. pusilla is unlikely to tolerate or adapt to projected changes in temperature and moisture, and is unlikely to be able to move to areas with more suitable climatic conditions. Although we cannot predict the timing, extent, or magnitude of specific impacts, we do expect the effects of climate change to exacerbate the threats to D. glabra var. pusilla described above. Because of these threats, we find that this variety is endangered throughout all of its range, and, therefore, find that it is unnecessary to analyze whether it is endangered or threatened in a significant portion of its range.
Exocarpos menziesii (heau) is a shrub in the sandalwood family (Santalaceae) (Wagner et al. 1999, p. 1218). This species occurs in Metrosideros shrubland or drier forest areas, and on lava flows with sparse vegetation, from 4,600 to 6,900 ft (1,400 to 2,100 m), in the montane dry ecosystem on the island of
Feral goats, mouflon, and sheep modify and destroy the habitat of Exocarpos menziesii on
The remaining occurrences of Exocarpos menziesii are at risk from modification and destruction by feral goats, mouflon, and sheep; from herbivory by these ungulates; and by the small number of remaining occurrences. Fire is a likely threat to this species. The effects of climate change are likely to exacerbate these threats. Because of these threats, we find that this species is endangered throughout all of its range, and, therefore, find that it is unnecessary to analyze whether it is endangered or threatened in a significant portion of its range.
Festuca hawaiiensis (NCN) is a cespitose (growing in tufts or clumps) annual in the grass family (Poaceae) (O'Connor 1999, p. 1547). Typical habitat for this species is dry forest at 6,500 ft (2,000 m), in the montane dry ecosystem (O'Connor 1999, p. 1547). Historically, F. hawaiiensis occurred at Hualalai and Puu Huluhulu on the island of
Habitat destruction and modification by feral goats and sheep is a threat to Festuca hawaiiensis. These ungulates also browse on native plants such as grasses, including F. hawaiiensis. Ungulates are managed in
The remaining occurrences of Festuca hawaiiensis are at risk; F. hawaiiensis occurrences have decreased on
Gardenia remyi (nanu) is a tree in the coffee family (Rubiaceae) (Wagner et al. 1999, p. 1133). Typical habitat for G. remyi is mesic to wet forest from 190 to 3,000 ft (60 to 760 m), in the lowland mesic (
Habitat modification and destruction by feral pigs, goats, and axis deer negatively affects Gardenia remyi and areas suitable for its reintroduction (
The remaining occurrences of Gardenia remyi are at risk. Gardenia remyi continues to be negatively affected by habitat modification and destruction by ungulates, and by direct competition from nonnative plants, combined with herbivory by ungulates and seed predation by rats. Natural events such as landslides are a threat to occurrences on the island of
Huperzia stemmermanniae (NCN) is an epiphytic hanging fir-moss (a fern ally) in the club moss family (Lycopodiaceae) (Palmer 2003, pp. 257-259). This species is epiphytic on rough bark of living trees or fallen logs in Metrosideros polymorpha-Acacia koa forest on the island of
Feral pigs, goats, axis deer, and cattle modify and destroy the habitat of Huperzia stemmermanniae on
The remaining occurrences of Huperzia stemmermanniae are at risk. The known individuals are restricted to a small area on
Hypolepis hawaiiensis var. mauiensis (olua) is a small terrestrial member of the bracken fern family (Dennstaedtiaceae), and is recognized as a distinct taxon by Palmer (2003, pp. 168-169). Hypolepis hawaiiensis var. mauiensis occurs in wet forest, predominately in the montane wet ecosystem (Palmer 2003, pp. 168-170; Oppenheimer 2015, in litt.). This variety is historically known from west
Nonnative plants, such as Tibouchina herbacea, modify and destroy the habitat of Hypolepis hawaiiensis var. mauiensis on east and west
The remaining occurrences of Hypolepis hawaiiensis var. mauiensis are at risk. Nonnative plants modify and destroy native habitat, and also outcompete native plants, and this plant is threatened by herbivory by slugs. This fern is also vulnerable to the impacts of climate change, and the small number of remaining individuals limits its ability to adapt to environmental change. Because of these threats, we find that this variety is endangered throughout all of its range, and, therefore, find that it is unnecessary to analyze whether it is endangered or threatened in a significant portion of its range.
Joinvillea ascendens ssp. ascendens (ohe) is an erect perennial herb in the joinvillea family (Joinvilleaceae) (Wagner et al. 1999, p. 1450). Joinvillea ascendens ssp. ascendens occurs in wet to mesic Metrosideros polymorpha-Acacia koa lowland and montane forest, and along intermittent streams, from 1,000 to 4,300 ft (305 to 1,300 m); in the lowland mesic (
Nonnative ungulates modify and destroy habitat on all of the islands where Joinvillea ascendens ssp. ascendens occurs (Moses 2006, in litt.; Oppenheimer 2006, in litt.; Welton and Haus 2008, p. 16; HBMP 2010; Perlman 2010, in litt.). Herbivory by feral pigs, goats, axis deer, black-tailed deer, and rats is a threat to this subspecies (HBMP 2010; Williams 2015, in litt.). Ungulates are managed in
The remaining occurrences of Joinvillea ascendens ssp. ascendens are at risk. The known individuals continue to be negatively affected by habitat modification and destruction by ungulates, compounded with herbivory by ungulates and rats. The small number of remaining individuals, smaller distribution, and poor recruitment in the wild limits this subspecies' ability to adapt to environmental changes. Destruction by fire, landslides, rockfalls, and floods can occur at any time. The effects of climate change are likely to further exacerbate these threats. Because of these threats, we find that this subspecies is endangered throughout all of its range, and, therefore, find that it is unnecessary to analyze whether it is endangered or threatened in a significant portion of its range.
Kadua fluviatilis (previously Hedyotis fluviatilis) (kamapuaa) is a climbing shrub in the coffee family (Rubiaceae) family (Wagner et al. 1999, pp. 1142-1144). Typical habitat for this species on
Historically, Kadua fluviatilis was known from the island of
Feral pigs and goats modify and destroy habitat of Kadua fluviatilis (HBMP 2010). Evidence of the activities of feral pigs has been reported at the occurrences on
The remaining occurrences of Kadua fluviatilis are at risk. Numbers of occurrences and individuals are decreasing on
Kadua haupuensis (NCN) is a shrub in the coffee family (Rubiaceae) (Lorence et al. 2010, p. 137). There is no historical information for this species as it was recently discovered and described from one occurrence just below and along cliffs in an isolated area on southern
Feral pigs modify and destroy the habitat of Kadua haupuensis on
Labordia lorenciana (NCN) is a small tree in the Logania family (Loganiaceae) (Wood et al. 2007, pp. 195-197). This species occurs on the island of
Labordia lorenciana is at risk from habitat modification and destruction and herbivory by nonnative mammals, displacement of individuals through competition with nonnative plants, stochastic events, and problems associated with small populations. Feral pigs, goats, and black-tailed deer modify and destroy the habitat of L. lorenciana (Wood et al. 2007, p. 198; Kishida 2015, in litt.). Ungulates are managed in
Lepidium orbiculare (anaunau) is a small, many-branched shrub in the mustard family (Brassicaceae) (
Feral pigs and goats have been documented to modify and destroy habitat of other rare and endangered native plant species at the same location on
The remaining occurrence of Lepidium orbiculare is at risk and the species continues to be negatively affected by the threats described above. Because of these threats, we find that this species is endangered throughout all of its range, and, therefore, find that it is unnecessary to analyze whether it is endangered or threatened in a significant portion of its range.
Microlepia strigosa var. mauiensis (NCN) is a terrestrial, medium-sized fern in the bracken fern family (Dennstaedtiaceae) (Palmer 2003, p. 186). Typical habitat for M. strigosa var. mauiensis is mesic to wet forest from 1,400 to 6,000 ft (425 to 1,830 m), in the lowland mesic (
Habitat modification and destruction by feral pigs and goats is a threat to Microlepia strigosa var. mauiensis (Oppenheimer 2007, in litt.; Bily 2009, in litt.; HBMP 2010). Herbivory by feral pigs is a threat to M. strigosa var. mauiensis (Oppenheimer 2007, in litt.; Bily 2009, in litt.; HBMP 2010). Ungulates are managed in
Myrsine fosbergii (kolea) is a branched shrub or small tree in the myrsine family (Myrsinaceae) (Wagner et al. 1999, p. 940). Typical habitat for this species on
Myrsine fosbergii is at risk from habitat modification and destruction by nonnative ungulates and plants. On
The remaining occurrences of Myrsine fosbergii are at risk from the threats described above. The effects of climate change are likely to exacerbate the threats described above. Because of these threats, we find that M. fosbergii is endangered throughout all of its range, and, therefore, find that it is unnecessary to analyze whether it is endangered or threatened in a significant portion of its range.
Nothocestrum latifolium (aiea) is a small tree in the nightshade family (Solanaceae) (
Feral pigs (
The remaining occurrences of Nothocestrum latifolium are at risk from the threats described above. Because of these threats, we find that this species is endangered throughout all of its range, and, therefore, find that it is unnecessary to analyze whether it is endangered or threatened in a significant portion of its range.
Ochrosia haleakalae (holei) is a tree in the dogbane family (Apocynaceae) (Wagner et al. 1999, p. 218). Typical habitat for this species is dry to mesic forest, sometimes wet forest, and often lava, from 2,300 to 4,000 ft (700 to 1,200 m), in the dry cliff (
Feral pigs and goats modify and destroy the habitat of Ochrosia haleakalae on
Ochrosia haleakalae is at risk from habitat degradation and loss by feral pigs, goats, cattle, and nonnative plants; the displacement of individuals due to competition with nonnative plants for space, nutrients, water, air, and light; herbivory by feral pigs, goats, and cattle; seed predation by slugs and rats; and by the small number of remaining individuals. The effects of climate change are likely to further exacerbate these threats. Because of these threats, we find that this species is endangered throughout all of its range, and, therefore, find that it is unnecessary to analyze whether it is endangered or threatened in a significant portion of its range.
Phyllostegia brevidens (NCN) is a scandent (climbing) subshrub in the mint family (Lamiaceae) (Wagner et al. 1999, pp. 814-815). This species occurs in wet forest on the islands of
Feral pigs modify and destroy habitat of this species on
The remaining occurrences of Phyllostegia brevidens are at risk. The species continues to be negatively affected by habitat modification and destruction by ungulates and nonnative plants, and by direct competition from nonnative plants, combined with herbivory by ungulates and slugs. The effects of climate change are likely to further exacerbate these threats. We find that P. brevidens is endangered throughout all of its range, and, therefore, find that it is unnecessary to analyze whether it is endangered or threatened in a significant portion of its range.
Phyllostegia helleri (NCN) is a weakly erect to climbing shrub in the mint family (Lamiaceae) (Wagner et al. 1999, pp. 816-817). This species occurs on ridges or spurs from 2,800 to 4,000 ft (860 to 1,200 m) in diverse forest on
Feral pigs and goats modify and destroy the habitat of Phyllostegia helleri on
The remaining occurrence of Phyllostegia helleri is at risk. The numbers of individuals are decreasing on
Phyllostegia stachyoides (NCN) is a weakly erect to climbing subshrub in the mint family (Lamiaceae) (Wagner et al. 1999, p. 823). This species occurs in mesic to wet forest from 3,600 to 4,600 ft (1,000 to 1,400 m), in the montane wet (
Feral pigs, goats, and axis deer modify and destroy the habitat of Phyllostegia stachyoides on
The remaining occurrences of Phyllostegia stachyoides are at risk. The known individuals are restricted to small areas on west
Portulaca villosa (ihi) is a perennial herb in the purslane family (Portulacaceae) (Wagner et al. 1999, p. 1074). Portulaca villosa occurs on dry, rocky, clay, lava, or coralline reef sites, from sea level to 1,600 ft (490 m), in the coastal (Lehua, Kaula,
Axis deer (
The remaining occurrences of Portulaca villosa are at risk; the numbers of individuals are decreasing on
Pritchardia bakeri (Baker's loulu) is a small to medium-sized tree in the palm family (Arecaceae) (Hodel 2009, pp. 173-179; Hodel 2012, pp. 70-73). This species occurs in the lowland mesic ecosystem in the
Habitat modification and destruction by feral pigs impact the range and abundance of Pritchardia bakeri. Ungulates are managed in
The remaining occurrences of Pritchardia bakeri are at risk; the known individuals are restricted to small areas on
Pseudognaphalium sandwicensium var. molokaiense (enaena) is a perennial herb in the sunflower family (Asteraceae) (Wagner et al. 1999, p. 321). Typical habitat for this variety is strand vegetation in dry consolidated dunes, in the coastal ecosystem (Wagner et al. 1999, p. 321; TNCH 2007; HBMP 2010). Historically, this variety was known from
Goats and axis deer modify and destroy the habitat of Pseudognaphalium sandwicensium var. molokaiense, with evidence of the activities of these animals reported in the areas where this plant occurs (Moses 2006, in litt.; Starr 2006, in litt.; Kallstrom 2008, in litt; HBMP 2010). Ungulates are managed in
The remaining occurrences of Pseudognaphalium sandwicensium var. molokaiense on
Ranunculus hawaiensis (makou) is an erect or ascending perennial herb in the buttercup family (Ranunculaceae) (Duncan 1999, p. 1088). Typical habitat is mesic forest on grassy slopes and scree, and in open pastures, from 6,000 to 6,700 ft (1,800 to 2,000 m), in the montane mesic (
Feral pigs, mouflon, and cattle modify and destroy the habitat of Ranunculus hawaiensis on
The remaining occurrences of Ranunculus hawaiensis are at risk; the known individuals are restricted to small areas on
Ranunculus mauiensis (makou) is an erect to weakly ascending perennial herb in the buttercup family (Ranunculaceae) (Duncan 1999, p. 1089). Typical habitat for R. mauiensis is open sites in mesic to wet forest and along streams, from 3,500 to 5,600 ft (1,060 to 1,700 m), in the montane wet (
Feral pigs, goats, axis deer, black-tailed deer, and cattle modify and destroy the habitat of Ranunculus mauiensis on
The remaining occurrences of Ranunculus mauiensis are at risk, the known individuals are restricted to small areas on
Sanicula sandwicensis (NCN) is a stout, erect, perennial herb in the parsley family (Apiaceae) (Constance and Affolter 1999, p. 210). This species occurs from 6,500 to 8,500 ft (2,000 to 2,600 m) in shrubland and woodland on the islands of
Feral pigs and goats modify and destroy the habitat of Sanicula sandwicensis on
The remaining occurrences of Sanicula sandwicensis are at risk; the known individuals are restricted to small areas on
Santalum involutum (iliahi) is a shrub or small tree in the sandalwood family (Santalaceae) (Harbaugh et al. 2010, pp. 827-838). Habitat for S. involutum is mesic and wet forest on
Feral pigs and goats modify and destroy the habitat of Santalum involutum on
The remaining occurrences of Santalum involutum are at risk; the known individuals are restricted to a small area on
Schiedea diffusa ssp. diffusa (NCN) is a reclining or weakly climbing vine in the pink family (Caryophyllaceae) (Wagner et al. 1999, pp. 511-512; Wagner et al. 2005, pp. 103-106). Schiedea diffusa ssp. diffusa occurs in wet forest from 3,000 to 5,300 ft (915 to 1,600 m) on
Feral pigs modify and destroy the habitat of Schiedea diffusa ssp. diffusa on
The remaining occurrences of Schiedea diffusa ssp. diffusa are at risk. The known individuals are restricted to small areas on
Schiedea pubescens (maolioli) is a reclining or weakly climbing vine in the pink family (Caryophyllaceae) (Wagner et al. 1999, p. 519; Wagner et al. 2005, pp. 99-102). This species occurs in diverse mesic to wet Metrosideros forest from 2,000 to 4,000 ft (640 to 1,220 m) in the lowland wet, montane wet, montane mesic, and wet cliff ecosystems (Wagner et al. 1999, 519; Wagner et al. 2005, p 100; TNCH 2007; HBMP 2010). Historically, on
Feral pigs, goats, axis deer, and cattle modify and destroy the habitat of Schiedea pubescens on
The remaining occurrences of Schiedea pubescens are at risk. The known individuals are restricted to small areas on
Sicyos lanceoloideus (anunu) is a perennial vine in the gourd family (Cucurbitaceae) (Telford 1999, p. 581; Wagner and Shannon 1999, p. 444). Sicyos lanceoloideus occurs on ridges or spurs in mesic forest from 1,800 to 2,700 ft (550 to 800 m), in the dry cliff (
Feral pigs, goats, and black-tailed deer modify and destroy the habitat of Sicyos lanceoloideus on
The remaining occurrences of Sicyos lanceoloideus are at risk. The known individuals are restricted to small areas on
Sicyos macrophyllus (anunu) is a perennial vine in the gourd family (Cucurbitaceae) (Telford 1999, p. 578; Wagner and Shannon 1999, p. 444). Typical habitat is wet Metrosideros polymorpha forest and Sophora chrysophylla -Myoporum sandwicense (mamane-naio) forest, from 4,000 to 6,600 ft (1,200 to 2,000 m) in the montane mesic (
Feral pigs, mouflon, and cattle modify and destroy the habitat of Sicyos macrophyllus on the island of
The remaining occurrences of Sicyos macrophyllus are at risk. The only known individuals are restricted to small areas on
Solanum nelsonii (popolo) is a sprawling or trailing shrub up to 3 ft (1 m) tall, in the nightshade family (Solanaceae) (
Axis deer and feral cattle modify and destroy the habitat of Solanum nelsonii on the main Hawaiian islands of
The remaining occurrences of Solanum nelsonii on the main Hawaiian Islands are restricted to small areas of
Stenogyne kaalae ssp. sherffii (NCN) is a climbing vine in the mint family (Lamiaceae) (Wagner and
Feral pigs modify and destroy the habitat of Stenogyne kaalae ssp. sherffii on
Any remaining occurrences of Stenogyne kaalae ssp. sherffii are at risk; the last known wild individuals were restricted to a very small area on
Wikstroemia skottsbergiana (akia) is a shrub or small tree in the akia family (Thymelaceae) (Peterson 1999, p. 1290). Wikstroemia skottsbergiana occurs in wet forest on the island of
Feral pigs and goats destroy and modify the habitat of Wikstroemia skottsbergiana on
The remaining occurrences of Wikstroemia skottsbergiana are at risk. The known individuals are restricted to a very small area on
Animals
Band-Rumped Storm-Petrel (Oceanodroma castro)--Hawaii Population
The band-rumped storm-petrel, a small seabird, is a member of the family Hydrobatidae (order Procellariiformes) and a member of the Northern Hemisphere subfamily Hyrdrobatinae (Slotterback 2002, p. 2). This seabird is found in several areas of the subtropical
When Polynesians arrived about 1,500 years ago, the band-rumped storm-petrel probably was common on all of the main Hawaiian Islands (Harrison et al. 1990, pp. 47-48). As evidenced by bones found in middens on
In Hawaii, band-rumped storm-petrels are known to nest in remote cliff locations on
Taxonomists have typically combined the Pacific populations of band-rumped storm-petrel into a single taxon, and currently the American Ornithologist's Union (AOU) regards the species as monotypic (2015, in litt.). However, molecular studies are ongoing and indicate genetic differences between populations in different oceans and archipelagos (Friesen et al. 2007b, pp. 18590-18952; Smith et al. 2007, p. 770; Taylor et al., in prep in Raine 2015, in litt.) and between sympatric populations that breed in different seasons (e.g., in the Galapagos Islands; Smith and Friesen 2007, pp. 1599-1560; Smith et al. 2007, p. 756).
Band-rumped storm-petrels are regularly observed in coastal waters around
Nesting sites are in burrows and in crevices, holes, and on protected ledges along cliff faces, where a single egg is laid (
Yellow-Faced Bees (Hylaeus spp.)
Bees in the genus Hylaeus (family Colletidae), which includes the seven species in this final rule, are commonly known as yellow-faced bees or masked bees for their yellow-to-white facial markings. All Hylaeus bees roughly resemble small wasps in appearance; however, Hylaeus bees have plumose (branched) hairs on the body that are longest on the sides of the thorax, which readily distinguish them from wasps (Michener 2000, in litt.). Bees in the family Colletidae are also referred to as plasterer bees because they line their nests with a self-secreted, cellophane-like material. Eggs hatch and develop into larvae (immature stage) and as larvae grow, they molt through three successive stages (instars), then change into pupae (a resting form) in which they metamorphose and emerge as adults (Michener 2000, in litt.). The diet of the larval stages is unknown, although it is presumed the larvae feed on stores of pollen and nectar collected and deposited in the nest by the adult female.
Hylaeus anthracinus was historically known from numerous coastal and lowland dry forest habitats up to 2,000 ft (610 m) in elevation on the islands of
Habitat destruction and modification by urbanization and land use conversion lead to the direct fragmentation of foraging and nesting areas used by Hylaeus anthracinus. Habitat destruction and modification by nonnative plants adversely impacts native plant species by modifying the availability of light, altering soil-water regimes, modifying nutrient cycling, altering the fire characteristics (increasing the fire cycle), and ultimately converting native dominated plant communities to nonnative plant communities, and results in removal of food sources and nesting sites for H. anthracinus (Graham 2015, in litt.). Habitat modification and destruction by nonnative animals such as feral pigs, goats, axis deer, and cattle, is considered one of the primary factors underlying degradation of native vegetation in the Hawaiian Islands, and these habitat changes also remove food sources and nesting sites for H. anthracinus (Stone 1985, pp. 262-263; Cuddihy and Stone 1990, pp. 60-66, 73). Fire is a threat to H. anthracinus, as it destroys native coastal and lowland plant communities on which the species depends, and opens habitat for increased invasion by nonnative plants. Because of the greater frequency, intensity, and duration of fires that have resulted from the human alteration of landscapes and the introduction of nonnative plants, especially grasses, fires are now more destructive to the coastal and lowland dry ecosystems (Brown and Smith 2000, p. 172). A single grass-fueled fire often kills most native trees and shrubs in the area (D'Antonio and Vitousek 1992, p. 74) and could destroy food and nesting resources for H. anthracinus. The number and size of wildfires are increasing in the main Hawaiian Islands; however, their occurrences and locations are unpredictable, and could affect habitat for yellow-faced bees at any time (Gima 1998, in litt.; County of
The remaining populations of Hylaeus anthracinus and its habitat are at risk. The known individuals are restricted to 15 locations on
Historically, Hylaeus assimulans was known from numerous coastal and lowland dry forest habitats up to 2,000 ft (610 m) in elevation on the islands of
Habitat destruction and modification by urbanization and land use conversion lead to fragmentation of, and eventual loss, of foraging and nesting areas used by Hylaeus assimulans. Habitat destruction and modification by nonnative plants (Asystasia gangetica (Chinese violet), Atriplex semibaccata, Cenchrus ciliaris (buffelgrass), Chloris barbata (swollen fingergrass), Digitaria insularis (sourgrass), Leucaena leucocephala, Melinis minutiflora, Pluchea indica (Indian fleabane), P. carolinensis, Prosopis pallida, Schinus terebinthifolius, and Verbesina encelioides (golden crown-beard) adversely impact native plant species by modifying the availability of light, altering soil-water regimes, modifying nutrient cycling, altering the fire characteristics, and ultimately converting native dominated plant communities to nonnative plant communities, and results in removal of food sources and nesting sites for H. assimulans (
The remaining populations of Hylaeus assimulans and its habitat are at risk. The known individuals are restricted to 5 locations: 2 on
Historically, Hylaeus facilis was known from
Habitat destruction and modification by urbanization and land use conversion lead to fragmentation of, and eventual loss of, foraging and nesting areas used by Hylaeus facilis. Habitat destruction and modification by nonnative plants adversely impacts native plant species by modifying the availability of light, altering soil-water regimes, modifying nutrient cycling, altering the fire characteristics, and ultimately converting native dominated plant communities to nonnative plant communities, and results in removal of food sources and nesting sites for the H. facilis. In addition to the nonnative plant species noted above that modify and destroy habitat of H. assimulans, Urochloa mutica, Prosopis pallida, Psidium cattleianum, and Rubus spp. are noted to negatively affect the habitat of H. facilis (Cuddihy and Stone 1990, p. 105;
The remaining populations of Hylaeus facilis and its habitat are at risk. The known individuals are restricted to one location on
Historically, Hylaeus hilaris was known from coastal habitat on
Because Hylaeus hilaris is an obligate parasite on H. anthracinus, H. assimulans, and H. longiceps, its occurrences are determined by the remaining populations of these three species. Habitat destruction and modification by urbanization and land use conversion leads to fragmentation of, and eventual loss of, foraging and nesting areas of H. hilaris, and of those Hylaeus species that H. hilaris is dependent upon. Habitat destruction and modification by nonnative plants adversely impacts native plant species by modifying the availability of light, altering soil-water regimes, modifying nutrient cycling, altering the fire characteristics, and ultimately converting native dominated plant communities to nonnative plant communities, and results in removal of food sources and nesting sites for the Hylaeus species that H. hilaris is dependent upon. Nonnative plant species that modify and destroy habitat of H. hilaris are noted in the description for H. assimulans, above. Habitat modification and destruction by nonnative animals such as feral pigs, goats, axis deer, and cattle is considered one of the primary factors underlying destruction of native vegetation in the Hawaiian Islands, and these habitat changes also remove food sources and nesting sites for the host species of H. hilaris (Stone 1985, pp. 262-263; Cuddihy and Stone 1990, pp. 60-66, 73). Fire is a threat to H. hilaris, as it destroys native plant communities, and opens habitat for increased invasion by nonnative plants. Because of the greater frequency, intensity, and duration of fires that have resulted from the human alteration of landscapes and the introduction of nonnative plants, especially grasses, fires are now more destructive to the coastal and lowland dry ecosystems (Brown and Smith 2000, p. 172), and a single grass-fueled fire often kills most native trees and shrubs in the area (D'Antonio and Vitousek 1992, p. 74) and could destroy food and nesting resources for H. hilaris. The numbers of wildfires and the acreages involved are increasing in the main Hawaiian Islands; however, their occurrences and locations are unpredictable, and could affect habitat for yellow-faced bees at any time (Gima 1998, in litt.; County of
The remaining populations of Hylaeus hilaris and its habitat are at risk. There is one known occurrence on
Because the first collection of Hylaeus kuakea was not made until 1997, its historical range is unknown (Magnacca 2005e, in litt., p. 2; Magnacca 2007, p. 184). Phylogenetically, H. kuakea belongs in a species-group primarily including species inhabiting mesic forests (Magnacca and Danforth 2006, p. 405). Only four individuals (all males) have been collected from two different sites in the
Habitat destruction and modification by feral pigs leads to fragmentation of, and eventual loss of, foraging and nesting areas of Hylaeus kuakea. Habitat destruction and modification by nonnative plants adversely impacts native plant species by modifying the availability of light, altering soil-water regimes, modifying nutrient cycling, altering the fire characteristics, and ultimately converting native dominated plant communities to nonnative plant communities, and results in removal of food sources and nesting sites for H. kuakea. Nonnative plant species that modify and destroy habitat of H. kuakea are noted in the descriptions for H. assimulans and H. facilis, above. Fire is a threat to H. kuakea because it destroys native plant communities and opens habitat for increased invasion by nonnative plants. Because of the greater frequency, intensity, and duration of fires that have resulted from the human alteration of landscapes and the introduction of nonnative plants, especially grasses, fires are now more destructive, including in lowland mesic areas (Brown and Smith 2000, p. 172), and a single grass-fueled fire often kills most native trees and shrubs in the area (D'Antonio and Vitousek 1992, p. 74) and could destroy food and nesting resources for H. kuakea. The numbers of wildfires and the acreages involved are increasing in the main Hawaiian Islands; however, their occurrences and locations are unpredictable, and could affect habitat for yellow-faced bees at any time (Gima 1998, in litt.; County of
The remaining populations of Hylaeus kuakea and its habitat are at risk. The known individuals are restricted to mesic forest in one area of one island (
Yellow-faced bee (Hylaeus longiceps)
Hylaeus longiceps is historically known from coastal and lowland dry shrubland habitat up to 2,000 ft (610 m) in numerous locations on the islands of
Most of the coastal and lowland habitat of Hylaeus longiceps has been developed or degraded, and is no longer suitable (
The remaining population of Hylaeus longiceps and its habitat are at risk. The known individuals are restricted to seven locations, three on
Hylaeus mana is known only from lowland mesic forest dominated by native Acacia koa in the
Habitat destruction and modification by feral pigs leads to fragmentation of, and eventual loss of, foraging and nesting areas of Hylaeus mana (
The remaining populations of Hylaeus mana and its habitat are at risk. The known individuals are restricted to three locations of native koa forest on
Orangeblack Hawaiian Damselfly (Megalagrion xanthomelas)
The orangeblack Hawaiian damselfly was once
Currently, the orangeblack Hawaiian damselfly occurs on
Past and present land use and water management practices, including agriculture, urban development, ground water development, and destruction of perched aquifer and surface water resources, and feral ungulates (pigs, goats, axis deer), modify and destroy habitat of the orangeblack Hawaiian damselfly (Harris et al. 1993, pp. 9-13; Meier et al. 1993, pp. 181-183). Nonnative plant species such as Urochloa mutica form dense, monotypic stands that can completely eliminate any open water habitat of the orangeblack Hawaiian damselfly (Smith 1985, p. 186). Stochastic events such as drought, flooding, and hurricanes can also modify and destroy habitat, and kill individuals. Predation of the orangeblack Hawaiian damselfly by nonnative fish and nonnative aquatic invertebrates on the orangeblack Hawaiian damselfly is a significant threat; predation by Jackson's chameleons (Trioceros jacksonii) may occur as well (Sailer 2015, in litt.). Hawaiian damselflies evolved with few, if any, predatory fish, and the reduced defensive and evasive behaviors of most of the fully aquatic species, including the orangeblack Hawaiian damselfly, makes them particularly vulnerable to predation by nonnative fish (Englund 1999, pp. 225-225, 235; Haines 2015, in litt.). The damselfly is not observed in any bodies of water that support nonnative fish (Henrickson 1988, p. 183; McPeek 1990a, pp. 92-96). Nonnative backswimmers (aquatic true bugs; Heteroptera) are voracious predators and frequently feed on prey much larger than themselves, such as tadpoles, small fish, and other aquatic invertebrates and may be a potential threat to damselfly's aquatic larvae (naiads) (Borror et al. 1989, p. 296). In addition, the nonnative bullfrog (Rana catesbeiana, Lithobates catesbeianus), found in ponds and along streams, is a generalist predator, and eats insects and crustaceans as well as a wide variety of small vertebrates (Bury and Whelan 1985, p. 4). Predation by the bullfrog is a threat to the orangeblack Hawaiian damselfly (Englund et al. 2007, pp. 215, 219; Haines 2015, in litt.). Also, caddisflies (Trichoptera spp.) compete with native aquatic invertebrates for resources and space (Flint et al. 2003, p. 38; Haines 2015, in litt.) and reduce prey abundance for orangeblack Hawaiian damselfly larvae.
Hawaii State law (State Water Code) does not provide for permanent or minimal instream flow standards, and channel modifications or revisions to flow standards can be undertaken at any time by the
The remaining populations and habitat of the orangeblack Hawaiian damselfly are at risk; numbers are decreasing on
Anchialine Pool Shrimp (Procaris hawaiana)
The shrimp family Procarididae is represented by a small number of species globally, with only two species within the genus Procaris (Magnacca 2015, in litt.). Procaris hawaiana is an endemic anchialine pool shrimp species known only from the islands of
Like other anchialine pool shrimp species, Procaris hawaiana inhabits extensive networks of water-filled interstitial spaces (cracks and crevices) leading to and from the open pools where they can be detected, a trait which has precluded accurate estimates of population size (Holthuis 1973, p. 36; Maciolek 1983, pp. 613-616). Surveys for many rare species of anchialine pool shrimp, including P. hawaiana, often involve baiting in likely habitat to determine presence or absence. Absence, and presumably extirpation, of shrimp species from suitable habitat is the best or only measure of species decline as population sizes are not easily determined or monitored (Holthuis 1973, pp. 7-12; Maciolek 1983, pp. 613-616), but owing to the potential for shrimp to move between pools through subterranean connections, the lack of sighting on one or several visits to a site is not definitive evidence that the species is extirpated (Kinzie 2015, in litt.). Extirpation of anchialine pool shrimp has been documented definitively in some cases; for example, Halocaridina rubra disappeared from an anchialine pool at
Habitat modification and destruction by human activities is a significant threat to Procaris hawaiana. It is estimated that up to 90 percent of existing anchialine pools in
Procaris hawaiana and its habitat are at risk. There are a total of 700 known anchialine pools in the
Distinct Population Segment (DPS) Analysis
Band-Rumped Storm-Petrel (Oceanodroma castro)
Under the Act, we have the authority to consider for listing any species, subspecies, or, for vertebrates, any distinct population segment (DPS) of these taxa if there is sufficient information to indicate that such action may be warranted. To guide the implementation of the DPS provisions of the Act, we, and the National Marine Fisheries Service (National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration--Fisheries), published the Policy Regarding the Recognition of Distinct Vertebrate Population Segments Under the Endangered Species Act (DPS Policy) in the Federal Register on February 7, 1996 (61 FR 4722). Under our DPS Policy, we use two elements to assess whether a population segment under consideration for listing may be recognized as a DPS: (1) The population segment's discreteness from the remainder of the species to which it belongs, and (2) the significance of the population segment to the species to which it belongs. If we determine that a population segment being considered for listing is a DPS, then the population segment's conservation status is evaluated based on the five listing factors established by the Act to determine if listing it as either endangered or threatened is warranted. In the proposed rule (80 FR 58820; September 30, 2015), we evaluated the
Discreteness
Under the DPS Policy, a population segment of a vertebrate taxon may be considered discrete if it satisfies either one of the following conditions: (1) It is markedly separated from other populations of the same taxon as a consequence of physical, physiological, ecological, or behavioral factors (quantitative measures of genetic or morphological discontinuity may provide evidence of this separation); or (2) it is delimited by international governmental boundaries within which differences in control of exploitation, management of habitat, conservation status, or regulatory mechanisms exist that are significant in light of section 4(a)(1)(D) of the Act. The
The band-rumped storm-petrel is widely distributed in the tropics and subtropics, with breeding populations in numerous island groups in the
Band-rumped storm-petrels from
Even those disparate breeding populations of pelagic seabirds that do overlap at sea may remain largely isolated otherwise and exhibit genetic differentiation (e.g.,
We have determined that the
Significance
Under our DPS Policy, once we have determined that a population segment is discrete, we consider its biological and ecological significance to the larger taxon to which it belongs. This consideration may include, but is not limited to: (1) Evidence of the persistence of the discrete population segment in an ecological setting that is unusual or unique for the taxon, (2) evidence that loss of the population segment would result in a significant gap in the range of the taxon, (3) evidence that the population segment represents the only surviving natural occurrence of a taxon that may be more abundant elsewhere as an introduced population outside its historical range, or (4) evidence that the discrete population segment differs markedly from other populations of the species in its genetic characteristics. We have found substantial evidence that the
Dispersal between populations of seabird species with ranges fragmented by large expanses of ocean may play a vital role in the persistence of individual populations (Bicknell et al. 2012, p. 2872). No evidence currently exists of such dispersal among Pacific populations of band-rumped storm-petrels at frequencies or in numbers that would change the population status between years, for example, by providing immigrants that compensate for breeding failure or adult mortality resulting from predation, as has been hypothesized for Leach's storm-petrel in the
The loss of this population would result in a significant gap in the range of the band-rumped storm-petrel. As noted above, seabirds in the order Procellariiformes, including the band-rumped storm-petrel, exhibit very high natal site fidelity, and so are slow to recolonize extirpated areas or range-gaps (Jones 2010, p. 1214), and may lack local adaptations; they thus face a potentially increased risk of extinction with the loss of individual populations (Smith et al. 2007, p. 770). The
BILLING CODE 4333-15-P
See Illustration in Original Document.
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The Hawaii population of the band-rumped storm-petrel is significant also because it persists in a unique ecological setting. This is the only population of the species known to nest at high-elevation sites (above 6,000 ft (1,800 m)) (Banko et al. 1991, pp. 651-653;
We have determined that the
DPS Conclusion
We have evaluated the
Summary of Factors Affecting the 49 Species From the Hawaiian Islands
Section 4 of the Act (16 U.S.C. 1533), and its implementing regulations (50 CFR part 424), set forth the procedures for adding species to the Federal Lists of Endangered and Threatened Wildlife and Plants. A species may be determined to be an endangered or threatened species due to one or more of the five factors described in section 4(a)(1) of the Act: (A) The present or threatened destruction, modification, or curtailment of its habitat or range; (B) overutilization for commercial, recreational, scientific, or educational purposes; (C) disease or predation; (D) the inadequacy of existing regulatory mechanisms; and (E) other natural or manmade factors affecting its continued existence. Listing actions may be warranted based on any of the above threat factors, singly or in combination. Each of these factors is discussed below.
In considering factors that might constitute threats to a species, we must look beyond the exposure of the species to a factor to evaluate whether the species responds to the factor in a way that causes impacts to the species or is likely to cause impacts in the future. If a species responds negatively to such exposure, the factor may be a threat and, during the status review, our aim is to determine whether impacts are or will be of an intensity or magnitude to place the species at risk. The factor is a threat if it drives, or contributes to, the risk of extinction of the species such that the species warrants listing as an endangered or threatened species as those terms are defined by the Act. This does not necessarily require empirical proof of a threat. The combination of exposure and some corroborating evidence of how the species is likely affected could suffice. In sum, the mere identification of factors that could affect a species negatively is not sufficient to compel a finding that listing is appropriate; we require evidence that these factors act on the species to the point that the species meets the definition of an endangered or threatened species.
If we determine that the threats posed to a species by one or more of the five listing factors are, or are likely to become, of such magnitude and/or intensity that the species meets the definition of either endangered or threatened under section 3 of the Act, that species may then be listed as endangered or threatened. The Act defines an endangered species as "in danger of extinction throughout all or a significant portion of its range," and a threatened species as "likely to become an endangered species within the foreseeable future throughout all or a significant portion of its range." The threats to each of the individual 49 species are summarized in Table 2, and discussed in detail below.
We acknowledge that the specific threats to the individual species in this final rule are not all completely understood. Scientific study of each of the 49 species is limited because of their rarity and the challenging logistics associated with conducting field work in
The following threats affect the 49 species in one or more of the ecosystems addressed in this rule:
(1) Modification and destruction of habitat, including streams, ponds, and anchialine pools, by urban development and water extraction. Human activities also contribute to increased sedimentation in anchialine pools.
(2) Habitat destruction and modification by feral ungulates including pigs, goats, axis deer, black-tailed deer, mouflon, sheep, and cattle. The disturbance of soils by these animals causes erosion and creates fertile seedbeds for nonnative plants, leading to further habitat degradation. Ungulates also trample seedlings.
(3) Habitat destruction and modification by nonnative plants. Nonnative plants modify availability of light, alter soil-water regimes, modify nutrient cycling, alter fire regimes, and ultimately convert native dominated plant communities to nonnative plant communities. They also cause or contribute to loss of host plants used for food and nesting by the yellow-faced bees.
(4) Habitat destruction by wildfires caused naturally or by humans. Fires also destroy the native plant seedbank, and contribute to habitat conversion of native forest to nonnative grasslands (grass/fire cycle).
(5) Habitat destruction and modification, or direct damage and death, by stochastic events including drought, erosion, flooding, tree falls, rock falls, landslides, hurricanes, and tsunamis.
(6) Illegal collection of anchialine pool shrimp for personal use or commercial trade.
(7) Herbivory or defoliation of native plants by ungulates, rats, slugs, and black twig borers, which have been observed to contribute to the decline or death of 35 the 39 plant species (except for Cyperus neokunthianus, Cyrtandra hematos, Lepidium orbiculare, and Stenogyne kaalae ssp. sherffii). Herbivory also destroys seeds and fruit and contributes to lack of reproduction in the wild and low genetic diversity compounding the decline of native plants.
(8) Predation of the band-rumped storm-petrel by rats, barn owls, cats, and mongoose.
(9) Predation of the orangeblack Hawaiian damselfly by bullfrogs, backswimmers, Jackson's chameleons, and nonnative fish.
(10) Predation of the anchialine pool shrimp by nonnative fish.
(11) Predation of Hylaeus bees by ants and wasps.
(12) Competition for food and nesting sites of the Hylaeus yellow-faced bees by nonnative ants, wasps, and bees, and competition for food and habitat of the orangeblack Hawaiian damselfly by caddisflies. Competition for space and food resources of the anchialine pool shrimp by nonnative fish.
(13) Injury and mortality of the band-rumped storm-petrel caused by artificial lighting, communication towers, and power lines.
(14) Injury and mortality of the band-rumped storm-petrel by the activities of fisheries and encounters with marine debris.
(15) Low numbers and/or no reproduction of all 49 species exacerbated by one or more of the above threats, combined with inability of the species to adapt to sea-level rise or other factors associated with climate change.
Existing regulatory mechanisms do not ameliorate these threats for any of the 49 species such that listing is not warranted. Each of the threats listed above is discussed in more detail below, and summarized in Table 2.
Table 2--Summary of Primary Threats Identified for Each of the 49 Hawaiian Islands Species Factor A Species Ecosystem Agricul- Ungulates Non- Fire Stocha- ture and native stic urban plants events develop- ment Plants: Asplenium MM P, G, BTD X diellaciniatum Calamagrostis MW P X expansa Cyanea LW X E, F, L kauaulaensis Cyclosorus LW, MW X, WE P X DR, F, L boydiae Cyperus LW P X neokunthianus Cyrtandra hematos MW P, G X Deparia kaalaana LM, LW P X DR, F Dryopteris glabra MW P, BTD X L var. pusilla Exocarpos LM, MM, G, M, SH X X menziesii MD Festuca MD G, SH X X hawaiiensis Gardenia remyi LM, LW P, G, D X L Huperzia MW P, G, D, X DR stemmermanniae C Hypolepis MW X hawaiiensis var. mauiensis Joinvillea LM, LW, P, G, D, X X L ascendens ssp. MW, MM BTD ascendens Kadua fluviatilis LM, LW P, G X L Kadua haupuensis LM P X L Labordia MM P, G, BTD X X F, L, TF lorenciana Lepidium LM P, G X L orbiculare Microlepia LM, MW, P, G X strigosa var. MM mauiensis Myrsine fosbergii LM, LW, P, G X MW Nothocestrum LD, LM, P, G, D, X X latifolium DC BTD, M, C Ochrosia LM, MM, P, G, C X X haleakalae DC Phyllostegia LW, MW, P X E, L brevidens WC Phyllostegia LW, MW, P, G X L helleri WC Phyllostegia MW, MM P, G, D X DR, E, F, stachyoides L, RF Portulaca villosa CO, LD, G, D, M, X X L, RF MD C Pritchardia LM P X HUR bakeri Pseudognaphalium CO G, D X L, RF sandwicensium var. molokaiense Ranunculus MM, MD, P, M, C X DR, E hawaiensis SA Ranunculus MW, MM, P, G, D, X X DR, E, L mauiensis WC BTD, C Sanicula MM, MD, P, G X X DR, E, F sandwicensis SA Santalum LM, LW P, G X X involutum Schiedea diffusa LW, MW P X ssp. diffusa Schiedea LW, MW, P, G, D, X X DR, E, F pubescens MM, WC C Sicyos LM, MM, P, G, BTD X X DR lanceoloideus DC Sicyos MW, MM, P, M, C X X macrophyllus MD Solanum nelsonii CO D, C X X DR, E, F, TS Stenogyne kaalae LW P X ssp. sherffii Wikstroemia LW P, G X L skottsbergiana ANIMALS: Band-rumped CO, SA, G X E, L, HUR storm-petrel DC, WC (Oceanodroma castro) Orangeblack AP, CO, X, WE P, G, D X DR, F, Hawaiian LD, LM HUR damselfly (Megalagrion xanthomelas) Anchialine pool AP X, WE shrimp (Procaris hawaiana) Yellow-faced bee CO, LD X P, G, D, X X DR, HUR, (Hylaeus SH, C TS anthracinus) Yellow-faced bee CO, LD X P, G, D, X X DR, HUR, (Hylaeus M, C TS assimulans) Yellow-faced bee CO, LD, X P, G, D, X X DR, HUR, (Hylaeus facilis) LM C TS Yellow-faced bee CO, LD X P, G, D, X X DR, HUR, (Hylaeus hilaris) C TS Yellow-faced bee LM P X X DR, HUR (Hylaeus kuakea) Yellow-faced bee CO, LD X D X X DR, HUR, (Hylaeus TS longiceps) Yellow-faced bee LM P X X DR, HUR (Hylaeus mana)
Table 2--Summary of Primary Threats Identified for Each of the 49 Hawaiian Islands Species Factor B Factor C Species Over- Predation/ Predation/ Predation/ utilization herbivory herbivory herbivory by by other NN by NN ungulates vertebrates inverte- brates Plants: Asplenium X diellaciniatum Calamagrostis X R expansa Cyanea R S kauaulaensis Cyclosorus X boydiae Cyperus neokunthianus Cyrtandra hematos Deparia kaalaana X S Dryopteris glabra R S var. pusilla Exocarpos X menziesii Festuca X hawaiiensis Gardenia remyi X R Huperzia X stemmermanniae Hypolepis S hawaiiensis var. mauiensis Joinvillea X R ascendens ssp. ascendens Kadua fluviatilis X Kadua haupuensis R Labordia X R BTB lorenciana Lepidium orbiculare Microlepia X strigosa var. mauiensis Myrsine fosbergii X Nothocestrum X BTB latifolium Ochrosia X R S haleakalae Phyllostegia X S brevidens Phyllostegia R helleri Phyllostegia X R S stachyoides Portulaca villosa X Pritchardia R bakeri Pseudognaphalium X sandwicensium var. molokaiense Ranunculus X hawaiensis Ranunculus X R S mauiensis Sanicula X R sandwicensis Santalum X R involutum Schiedea diffusa R S ssp. diffusa Schiedea X R S pubescens Sicyos X lanceoloideus Sicyos X R macrophyllus Solanum nelsonii X R Stenogyne kaalae ssp. sherffii Wikstroemia R skottsbergiana ANIMALS: Band-rumped R, O, CA, storm-petrel MO (Oceanodroma castro) Orangeblack FS, BF, JC BS Hawaiian damselfly (Megalagrion xanthomelas) Anchialine pool X FS shrimp (Procaris hawaiana) Yellow-faced bee A, W, (Hylaeus anthracinus) Yellow-faced bee A, W (Hylaeus assimulans) Yellow-faced bee A, W (Hylaeus facilis) Yellow-faced bee A, W (Hylaeus hilaris) Yellow-faced bee A, W (Hylaeus kuakea) Yellow-faced bee A, W (Hylaeus longiceps) Yellow-faced bee A, W (Hylaeus mana)
Table 2--Summary of Primary Threats Identified for Each of the 49 Hawaiian Islands Species Factor D Factor E Species Inadequate Other Climate existing species- change regulatory specific mechanisms threats Plants: Asplenium X LN X. diellaciniatum Calamagrostis X LN X, Ft. expansa Cyanea X LN, NR X. kauaulaensis Cyclosorus X LN X, Ft. boydiae Cyperus X LN X. neokunthianus Cyrtandra hematos X HY, LN, NR X, Ft. Deparia kaalaana X LN X. Dryopteris glabra X LN X, Ft. var. pusilla Exocarpos X LN X, Ft. menziesii Festuca X LN X, Ft. hawaiiensis Gardenia remyi X LN, NR X, Ft. Huperzia X LN X, Ft. stemmermanniae Hypolepis X LN X, Ft. hawaiiensis var. mauiensis Joinvillea X LN, NR X, Ft. ascendens ssp. ascendens Kadua fluviatilis X LN X, Ft. Kadua haupuensis X LN X. Labordia X LN, NR X. lorenciana Lepidium X LN X. orbiculare Microlepia X HY, LN X. strigosa var. mauiensis Myrsine fosbergii X HY, LN X, Ft. Nothocestrum X LN, NR X, Ft. latifolium Ochrosia X LN, NR X, Ft. haleakalae Phyllostegia X LN X, Ft. brevidens Phyllostegia X LN X, Ft. helleri Phyllostegia X LN X, Ft. stachyoides Portulaca villosa X LN X, Ft. Pritchardia X LN X. bakeri Pseudognaphalium X LN X, Ft. sandwicensium var. molokaiense Ranunculus X LN X, Ft. hawaiensis Ranunculus X LN X, Ft. mauiensis Sanicula X LN X, Ft. sandwicensis Santalum X LN X. involutum Schiedea diffusa X LN X. ssp. diffusa Schiedea X LN X, Ft. pubescens Sicyos X LN X, Ft. lanceoloideus Sicyos X LN X, Ft. macrophyllus Solanum nelsonii X LN, SL X, Ft. Stenogyne kaalae X LN X, Ft. ssp. sherffii Wikstroemia X LN X. skottsbergiana ANIMALS: Band-rumped X LI, ST, H, X. storm-petrel LN (Oceanodroma castro) Orangeblack X LN, CD X. Hawaiian damselfly (Megalagrion xanthomelas) Anchialine pool X FS, H, LN, X. shrimp (Procaris RU, SD, SL hawaiana) Yellow-faced bee X LN, W, B, X. (Hylaeus LHP anthracinus) Yellow-faced bee X LN, W, B, X. (Hylaeus LHP assimulans) Yellow-faced bee X LN, W, B, X. (Hylaeus facilis) LHP Yellow-faced bee X LN, W, B, X. (Hylaeus hilaris) LHP Yellow-faced bee X LN, W, B, X. (Hylaeus kuakea) LHP Yellow-faced bee X LN, W, B, X. (Hylaeus LHP, RU longiceps) Yellow-faced bee X LN, W, B, X. (Hylaeus mana) LHP Factor A = Habitat Modification; Factor B = Overutilization; Factor C = Disease or Predation; Factor D = Inadequacy of Regulatory Mechanisms: the Xs in this column indicate that existing regulatory mechanisms do not ameliorate the threats to the species such that listing is not warranted (we do not identify Factor D, in and of itself, as a threat to the species); Factor E = Other Species-Specific Threats. AP = Anchialine Pools; CO = Coastal; LD = Lowland Dry; LM = Lowland Mesic; LW = Lowland Wet; MW = Montane Wet; MM = Montane Mesic; MD = Montane Dry; SA = Subalpine; DC = Dry Cliff; WC = Wet Cliff. A = Ants, B = Bees (competition); BF = Bullfrog; BS = Backswimmer; BTB = BlackTwig Borer ; BTD = Black-tailed Deer; C = Cattle; CA = Cats; CD = Caddisflies; D = Axis Deer;; FS = Fish; G = Goats; JC = Jackson's Chameleons; M = Mouflon; MO = Mongoose; O = Barn Owls; P = Pigs; R = Rats; S = Slugs; SH = Sheep; W = Wasps (competition, predation). DR = Drought; E = Erosion; F = Flooding; Ft = assessed in Fortini et al. (2013) climate change vulnerability analysis; H = Human (fisheries, marine debris, contamination); HUR = Hurricanes; HY = Hybridization; L = Landslides; LHP = Loss of Host Plants; LI = Lights; LN = Low Numbers; NR = No Regeneration; RF = Rockfalls; RU = Recreational Use (swimming, fishing, dumping trash and nonnative fish); SD = Sedimentation; SL = Sea Level Rise; ST = Structures; TF = Tree Fall; TS = Tsunami; WE = Water Extraction.
Factor A. The Present or Threatened Destruction, Modification, or Curtailment of Their Habitat or Range
The Hawaiian Islands are located over 2,000 mi (3,200 km) from the nearest continent. This isolation has allowed the few plants and animals transported to the islands by wind, water, or birds to evolve into many varied and endemic species. The only native terrestrial mammals on the Hawaiian Islands include two bat taxa, the Hawaiian hoary bat (Lasiurus cinereus semotus), and an extinct, unnamed insectivorous bat (Ziegler 2002, p. 245). The native plants of the Hawaiian Islands therefore evolved in the absence of mammalian predators, browsers, or grazers, and subsequently, many native species lost unneeded defenses against threats typical of continental environments such as herbivory and competition with aggressive, weedy plant species (Loope 1992, p. 11;
Habitat Destruction and Modification by Agriculture and Urban Development
Past land use practices such as agriculture or urban development have resulted in little or no native vegetation below 2,000 ft (600 m) throughout the Hawaiian Islands (TNC 2006). These land use practices negatively affect the anchialine pool, coastal, lowland dry, and lowland mesic ecosystems, including streams and wetlands that occur within these areas.
Development and urbanization of anchialine pool, coastal, lowland dry, and lowland mesic ecosystems on
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. On Hawaii Island, the orangeblack Hawaiian damselfly, the anchialine pool shrimp Procaris hawaiana, and the yellow-faced bee Hylaeus anthracinus. (
Although we are unaware of any comprehensive, site-by-site assessment of wetland development in
On Hawaii Island, it is estimated that up to 90 percent of the anchialine pools have been destroyed or altered by human activities, including bulldozing and filling of pools (Brock 2004, p. i; Bailey-Brock and Brock 1993, p. 354). Dumping of trash and nonnative fish has affected anchialine pools on this island (Brock 2004, pp. 13-17) (see Factor E. Other Natural or Manmade Factors Affecting Their Continued Existence, below). Brock also noted that garbage like bottles and cans appear to have no net negative impact, while the dumping of used oil, oil filters, and grease has resulted in the disappearance of the anchialine pool shrimp Halaocaridina rubra from a pool adjacent to Honokohau Harbor on Hawaii Island. Lua O Palahemo (where Procaris hawaiana occurs) on Hawaii Island is accessible to the public, and dumping has occurred there (Brock 2004, pp. 13-17). We are not aware of any dumping activities within the two
Destruction and modification of Hylaeus habitat by urbanization and land use conversion, including agriculture, has led to the fragmentation of foraging and nesting habitat of these species. In particular, because native host plant species are known to be essential to the yellow-faced bees for foraging of nectar and pollen, any further loss of this habitat may reduce their long-term chances for recovery. Additionally, further destruction and modification of Hylaeus habitat is also likely to facilitate the introduction and spread of nonnative plants within these areas (see "Habitat Destruction and Modification by Nonnative Plants," below).
Habitat Destruction and Modification by Nonnative Ungulates
Nonnative ungulates have greatly affected the native vegetation, as well as the native fauna, of the Hawaiian Islands. Impacts to the native species and ecosystems accelerated following the arrival of Captain
Pigs (Sus scrofa)
The destruction or modification of habitat by pigs is currently a threat to four of the ecosystems (lowland mesic, lowland wet, montane wet, and montane mesic) in which these species occur. Feral pigs are known to cause deleterious impacts to ecosystem processes and functions throughout their worldwide distribution (
Feral pigs are extremely destructive and have both direct and indirect impacts on native plant communities. While rooting in the earth in search of invertebrates and plant material, pigs directly affect native plants by disturbing and destroying vegetative cover and by trampling plants and seedlings. It has been estimated that at a conservative rooting rate of 2 square yards (sq yd) (1.7 square meters (sq m)) per minute and only 4 hours of foraging per day, a single pig could disturb over 1,600 sq yd (1,340 sq m) (or approximately 0.3 acres (ac) (0.1 hectares (ha)) of groundcover per week (Anderson et al. 2007, in litt.). Feral pigs are a major vector for the establishment and spread of invasive nonnative plant species, such as Passiflora tarminiana and Psidium cattleianum, by dispersing seeds carried on their hooves and coats and in their feces (which also serve to fertilize disturbed soil) (Diong 1982, pp. 169-170;
Goats (Capra hircus)
Feral goats currently destroy and modify habitat in 10 of the 11 ecosystems (coastal, lowland dry, lowland mesic, lowland wet, montane wet, montane mesic, montane dry, subalpine, dry cliff, and wet cliff) in which these species occur. Goats, native to the
Axis Deer (Axis axis)
Axis deer destroy and modify 6 of the 11 ecosystems (coastal, lowland dry, lowland mesic, lowland wet, montane wet, and montane mesic) in which these species are found. Axis deer were introduced to the Hawaiian Islands for hunting opportunities on
On Molokai, axis deer likely occur at all elevations from sea level to almost 5,000 ft (1,500 m) at the summit area (Kessler 2011, pers. comm.). The most current population estimate for axis deer on the island of
While axis deer are allowed as game animals on these three islands, the State does not permit their introduction to other Hawaiian Islands. In 2010-2011, axis deer were illegally introduced to Hawaii Island as a game animal (Kessler 2011, pers. comm.; Aila 2012, in litt.), and deer have now been observed across the southern portion of the island including in
The following 16 species in this rule are at risk from the activities of axis deer: Gardenia remyi, Huperzia stemmermanniae, Joinvillea ascendens ssp. ascendens, Nothocestrum latifolium, Phyllostegia stachyoides, Portulaca villosa, Pseudognaphalium sandwicensium var. molokaiense, Ranunculus mauiensis, Schiedea pubescens, Solanum nelsonii, the orangeblack Hawaiian damselfly, and five of the yellow-faced bees (Hylaeus anthracinus, H. assimulans, H. facilis, H. hilaris, and H. longiceps).
Black-Tailed Deer (Odocoileus hemionus columbianus)
Black-tailed deer destroy and modify habitat in 5 of the 11 ecosystems (lowland mesic, lowland wet, montane wet, montane mesic, and dry cliff) in which these species occur. The black-tailed deer is one of nine subspecies of mule deer (
Sheep (Ovis aries)
Four of the ecosystems on Hawaii Island (lowland dry, lowland mesic, montane mesic, and montane dry) in which these species occur are currently threatened by habitat destruction and modification due to the activities of feral sheep. Sheep were introduced to Hawaii Island in 1791, when Captain Vancouver brought five rams and two ewes from
Mouflon (Ovis gmelini musimon)
Mouflon destroy and modify habitat in 6 of the 11 ecosystems on
Cattle (Bos taurus)
Cattle destroy and modify habitat in 7 of the 11 ecosystems on
In summary, 37 of the 39 plant species (all except Cyanea kauaulaensis and Hypolepis hawaiiensis var. mauiensis), and 9 of the 10 animals (except for the anchialine pool shrimp Procaris hawaiana), are at risk of habitat destruction and modification by ungulates including pigs, goats, axis deer, black-tailed deer, sheep, mouflon, and cattle (see Table 2). The effects of these nonnative animals include the destruction of vegetative cover, trampling of plants and seedlings, direct consumption of native vegetation, soil disturbance and sedimentation (erosion and landslides), dispersal of nonnative plant seeds by animals, alteration of soil nitrogen availability, and creation of open, disturbed areas conducive to further invasion by nonnative pest plant species. All of these impacts also can lead to the conversion of a native plant community to one dominated by nonnative species (see "Habitat Destruction and Modification by Nonnative Plants," below). In addition, because these animals inhabit terrain that is often steep and remote, foraging and trampling contributes to severe erosion of watersheds and degradation of streams and wetlands (Cuddihy and Stone 1990, p. 59; Dunkell et al. 2011, pp. 175-194).
Habitat Destruction and Modification by Nonnative Plants
Ten of the 11 ecosystems (excluding anchialine pool ecosystem) and the species in this rule that are associated with them are currently at risk of habitat destruction and modification by nonnative plants. Native vegetation on all of the main Hawaiian Islands has undergone extreme alteration because of past and present land management practices, including ranching, deliberate introduction of nonnative plants and animals, and agriculture (Cuddihy and Stone 1990, pp. 27, 58). The original native flora of Hawaii (present before human arrival) consisted of about 1,000 taxa, 89 percent of which are endemic (Wagner et al. 1999, pp. 3-6). Over 800 plant taxa have been introduced to the Hawaiian Islands. These were brought to Hawaii for food or for cultural reasons, to reforest areas destroyed by grazing feral and domestic animals, or for horticultural or agricultural purposes; some were introduced unintentionally (Scott et al. 1986, pp. 361-363; Cuddihy and Stone 1990, p. 73). Individual descriptions of 114 nonnative plant species that negatively affect the 49 species are provided in our proposed rule (80 FR 58820, September 30, 2015; see pp. 58869-58881). Fourteen of these nonnative plants are included in the Hawaii Noxious Weed List (Hawaii Department of Agriculture HAR 1981-title 4, subtitle 6, chapter 68).
Nonnative plants adversely affect native habitat in Hawaii by (1) modifying the availability of light, (2) altering soil-water regimes, (3) modifying nutrient cycling, and (4) altering fire regimes of native plant communities (i.e., the "grass/fire cycle" that converts native-dominated plant communities to nonnative plant communities; see below) (Smith 1985, pp. 180-181; Cuddihy and Stone 1990, p. 74; D'Antonio and Vitousek 1992, p. 73; Vitousek et al. 1997, p. 6). The contribution of nonnative plants to the extinction of native species in the lowland and upland habitats of Hawaii is well-documented (Vitousek et al. 1987 in Cuddihy and Stone 1990, p. 74). The most commonly observed effect of nonnative plants on native species is displacement through competition. Competition occurs for water or nutrients, or it may involve allelopathy (chemical inhibition of growth of other plants), shading, or precluding sites for seedling establishment (Vitousek et al. 1987 in Cuddihy and Stone 1990, p. 74).
Alteration of fire regimes represents an ecosystem-level change caused by the invasion of nonnative plants, primarily grasses (D'Antonio and Vitousek 1992, p. 73). Grasses generate standing dead material that burns readily, and grass tissues with large surface-to-volume ratios dry out quickly, contributing to flammability (D'Antonio and Vitousek 1992, p. 73). The finest size classes of grass material ignite and spread fires under a broader range of conditions than do woody fuels or even surface litter (D'Antonio and Vitousek 1992, p. 73). The grass life form allows rapid recovery following fire because there is little above-ground vegetative structure. Grasslands also support a microclimate in which surface temperatures are hotter, contributing to drier vegetative conditions that favor fire (D'Antonio and Vitousek 1992, p. 73). In summary, nonnative plants directly and indirectly affect the 39 plants and 9 of the 10 animals in this rule (except the anchialine pool shrimp) by destroying and modifying their habitat, by removing their native host plants, or by direct competition.
Habitat Destruction and Modification by Fire
Seven of the 11 ecosystems (coastal, lowland dry, lowland mesic, montane mesic, montane dry, subalpine, and dry cliff) and the species in this rule that are associated with them are at risk of destruction and modification by fire. Fire is an increasing, human-exacerbated threat to native species and ecosystems in Hawaii. The pre-settlement fire regime in Hawaii was characterized by infrequent, low-severity events, as few natural ignition sources existed (Cuddihy and Stone 1990, p. 91; Smith and Tunison 1992, pp. 395-397). It is believed that prior to human colonization fuel was sparse in wet plant communities and only seasonally flammable in mesic and dry plant communities. The only ignition sources were volcanism and lightning (Baker et al. 2009, p. 43). Although Vogl (1969, in Cuddihy and Stone 1990, p. 91) proposed that naturally occurring fires may have been important in the development of some of the original Hawaiian flora, Mueller-Dombois (1981, in Cuddihy and Stone 1990, p. 91) asserts that most natural vegetation types of Hawaii would not carry fire before the introduction of alien grasses. Smith and Tunison (in Cuddihy and Stone 1990, p. 91) state that native plant fuels typically have low flammability. Existing fuel loads were often discontinuous, and rainfall in many areas on most islands was moderate to high. Fires inadvertently or intentionally set by the Polynesian settlers probably contributed to the initial decline of native vegetation in the drier plains and foothills. These early settlers practiced slash-and-burn agriculture that created open lowland areas suitable for the opportunistic invasion and colonization of nonnative, fire-adapted grasses (Kirch 1982, pp. 5-6, 8; Cuddihy and Stone 1990, pp. 30-31). Beginning in the late 18th century, Europeans and Americans introduced plants and animals that further degraded native Hawaiian ecosystems. Ranching and the creation of pasturelands in particular created highly fire-prone areas of nonnative grasses and shrubs (D'Antonio and Vitousek 1992, p. 67). Although fires were infrequent in mountainous regions, extensive fires have recently occurred in lowland dry and lowland mesic areas, leading to grass/fire cycles that convert native dry forest and native wet forest to nonnative grassland (D'Antonio and Vitousek 1992, p. 77).
Because of the greater frequency, intensity, and duration of fires that have resulted from the human alteration of landscapes and the introduction of nonnative plants, especially grasses, fires are now more destructive to native Hawaiian ecosystems (Brown and Smith 2000, p. 172), and a single grass-fueled fire often kills most native trees and shrubs in the area (D'Antonio and Vitousek 1992, p. 74). Fire destroys dormant seeds of native plants, as well as individual plants and animals themselves, even in steep, inaccessible areas or near streams and ponds. Successive fires remove habitat for native species by altering microclimate conditions, creating conditions more favorable to nonnative plants. Nonnative grasses (e.g., Cenchrus setaceus; fountain grass), many of which may be fire-adapted, produce a high fuel load that allow fire to burn areas that would not otherwise burn easily, regenerate quickly after fire, and establish rapidly in burned areas (Fujioka and Fujii 1980 in Cuddihy and Stone 1990, p. 93; D'Antonio and Vitousek 1992, pp. 70, 73-74; Tunison et al. 2002, p. 122). Native woody plants may recover to some degree, but fire tips the competitive balance toward nonnative species (National Park Service 1989 in Cuddihy and Stone 1990, p. 93). During a post-burn survey on Hawaii Island, in an area of native Diospyros forest with undergrowth of the nonnative grass Pennisetum setaceum [Cenchrus setaceus ], Takeuchi (1991, p. 2) noted that "no regeneration of native canopy is occurring within the Puuwaawaa burn area." Takeuchi also stated that "burn events served to accelerate a decline process already in place, compressing into days a sequence which would ordinarily have taken decades" (Takeuchi 1991, p. 4), and concluded that, in addition to increasing the number of fires, the nonnative Pennisetum acted to suppress establishment of native plants after a fire (Takeuchi 1991, p. 6).
For many decades, fires have affected rare or endangered species and their habitats on Molokai, Lanai, and Maui (Gima 1998, in litt.; Hamilton 2009, in litt.; Honolulu Advertiser 2010, in litt.; Pacific Disaster Center 2011, in litt.). These three islands experienced approximately 1,290 brush fires between 1972 and 1999 that burned a total of 64,250 ac (26,000 ha) (County of Maui 2009, ch. 3, p. 3; Pacific Disaster Center 2011, in litt.). Between 2000 and 2003, the annual number of wildfires on these islands jumped from 118 to 271; of these, several burned more than 5,000 ac (2,023 ha) each (Pacific Disaster Center 2011, in litt.). On Molokai, between 2003 and 2004, three wildfires each burned 10,000 ac (4,050 ha) (Pacific Disaster Center 2011, in litt.). From August through early September 2009, a wildfire burned approximately 8,000 ac (3,237 ha), including 600 ac (243 ha) of the remote Makakupaia section of the Molokai Forest Reserve, a small portion of The Nature Conservancy's (TNC's) Kamakou Preserve, and encroached on Onini Gulch, Kalamaula, and Kawela (Hamilton 2009, in litt.). Species at risk because of wildfire on Molokai include the plants Joinvillea ascendens ssp. ascendens, Nothocestrum latifolium, Portulaca villosa, Ranunculus mauiensis, Schiedea pubescens, and Solanum nelsonii, and the yellow-faced bees Hylaeus anthracinus, H. facilis, H. hilaris, and H. longiceps.
Several wildfires have occurred on Lanai in the last decade. In 2006, a wildfire burned 600 ac (243 ha) between Manele Road and the Palawai Basin, about 3 mi (4 km) south of Lanai City (The Maui News 2006, in litt.). In 2007, a brush fire at Mahana burned about 30 ac (12 ha), and in 2008, another 1,000 ac (405 ha) were burned by wildfire in the Palawai Basin (The Maui News 2007, in litt.; KITV Honolulu 2008, in litt.). Species at risk because of wildfire on Lanai include Exocarpos menziesii, Nothocestrum latifolium, Portulaca villosa, Schidea pubescens; and the yellow-faced bees Hylaeus anthracinus, H. assimulans, H. facilis, H. hilaris, and H. longiceps.
On west Maui, wildfires burned more than 8,650 ac (3,501 ha) between 2007 and 2010 (Honolulu Advertiser 2010, in litt.; Shimogawa 2010, in litt.). These fires encroached into the West Maui Forest Reserve, on the ridges of Olowalu and Kealaloloa, which is habitat for several endangered plants. In 2007, on east Maui, a fire consumed over 600 ac (240 ha), increasing invasion of the area by nonnative plants (Pinus spp.) (Pacific Disaster Center 2007, in litt.; The Maui News 2011, in litt.). Species at risk because of wildfire on west and east Maui include the plants Festuca hawaiiensis, Joinvillea ascendens ssp. ascendens, Nothocestrum latifolium, Ochrosia haleakalae, Portulaca villosa, Ranunculus mauiensis, Sanicula sandwicensis, Schiedea pubescens, Sicyos macrophyllus, and Solanum nelsonii, and the yellow-faced bees Hylaeus anthracinus, H. assimulans, H. facilis, H. hilaris, and H. longiceps.
Several recent fires on Oahu in the Waianae Mountain range have affected rare and endangered species. Between 2004 and 2005, wildfires burned more than 360 ac (146 ha) in Honouliuli Preserve, habitat of more than 90 rare and endangered plants and animals (TNC 2005). In 2006, a fire at Kaena Point State Park burned 60 ac (24 ha), and encroached on endangered plants in Makua Military Training Area. In 2007, there was a significant fire at Kaukonahua that crossed 12 gulches, eventually encompassing 5,655 ac (2,289 ha) that negatively affected eight endangered plant species and their habitat (Abutilon sandwicense, Bonamia menziesii, Colubrina oppositifolia, Eugenia koolauensis, Euphorbia haeleeleana, Hibiscus brackenridgei ssp. mokuleianus, Nototrichium humile, and Schiedea hookeri) (U.S. Army Garrison 2007b, Appendices pp. 1-5). This fire provided ingress for nonnative ungulates (cattle, goats, and pigs) into previously undisturbed areas, and opened dense native vegetation to the invasive grass Urochloa maxima (Panicum maximum, guinea grass), also a food source for cattle and goats. The grass was observed to generate blades over 2 ft (0.6 m) in length only 2 weeks following the fire (U.S. Army Garrison 2007b, Appendices pp. 1-5). In 2009, two smaller fires burned 200 ac (81 ha) at Manini Pali (Kaena Point State Park) and almost 4 ac (1.5 ha) at Makua Cave. Both of these fires burned into area designated as critical habitat, although no individual plants were directly affected (U.S. Army Natural Resource Program 2009, Appendix 2, 17 pp.). Most recently, in 2014, two fires affected native forest, one in the Oahu Forest National Wildlife Refuge (350 ac, 140 ha), on the leeward side of the Koolau Mountains (DLNR 2014, in litt.), and one above Makakilo, in the Waianae Mountains, just below Honouliuli FR, that burned more than 1,000 ac (400 ha) (KHON 2014, in litt.). The Makakilo fire took over 2 weeks to contain. Species at risk because of wildfire on Oahu include the plants Joinvillea ascendens ssp. ascendens, Nothocestrum latifolium, Portulaca villosa, Ranunculus mauiensis, and Sicyos lanceoloideus, and the yellow-faced bees Hylaeus anthracinus, H. assimulans, H. facilis, H. kuakea, H. longiceps, and H. mana.
In 2012, on Kauai, a wildfire that was possibly started by an unauthorized camping fire burned 40 ac (16 ha) in the Na Pali-Kona Forest Reserve on Milolii Ridge, forcing closure of a hiking trail. Fortunately, several endangered and threatened plants in the adjacent Kula NAR were not impacted (KITV 2012, in litt.). The same year, another wildfire burned over 650 ac (260 ha) on Hikimoe Ridge, and threatened the Puu Ka Pele section of Waimea Canyon State Park (Hawaii News Now 2012, in litt.; Star Advertiser 2012, in litt.). Species at risk of because wildfire on Kauai include the plants Joinvillea ascendens ssp. ascendens, Labordia lorenciana, Nothocestrum latifolium, Ranunculus mauiensis, Santalum involutum, and Sicyos lanceoloideus.
In the driest areas on the island of Hawaii, wildfires are exacerbated by the uncontrolled growth of nonnative grasses such as Cenchrus setaceus (Fire Science Brief 2009, in litt.). Since its introduction to the island in 1917, this grass now covers more than 200 square mi (500 square km) of the leeward areas of the island (Joint Fire Science Brief (JFSB) 2009, in litt.). In the past 50 years, three wildfires on the leeward side encompassed a total of 30,000 ac (12,140 ha) (JFSB 2009, in litt.). These wildfires traveled great distances at rates of 4 to 8 miles per hour (mph) (7 to 12 kilometers per hour (kph)), burning 2.5 ac (1 ha) to 6 ac (2.5 ha) per minute (the equivalent of 6 to 8 football fields per minute) (Burn Institute 2009, p. 4). Between 2002 and 2003, three successive lava-ignited wildfires in the east rift zone of Hawaii Volcanoes National Park affected native forests in lowland dry, lowland mesic, and lowland wet ecosystems (JFSB 2009, p. 3), cumulatively burning an estimated 11,225 ac (4,543 ha) (Wildfire News, June 9, 2003; JFSP 2009, p. 3). These fires destroyed over 95 percent of the canopy cover and encroached upon forest areas that were previously thought to have low susceptibility to wildfires. After the fires, nonnative ferns were observed in higher elevation rainforest where they had not previously been seen, and were believed to inhibit the recovery of the native Metrosideros polymorpha (ohia) trees (JFSP 2003, pp. 1-2). Nonnative grasses invaded the burn area, increasing the risk of fire encroaching into the surrounding native forest (Ainsworth 2011, in litt.). Extreme drought conditions also contributed to the number and intensity of wildfires on Hawaii Island (Armstrong and Media 2010, in litt.; Loh 2010, in litt.). This "extreme" drought classification for Hawaii was recently lifted to "moderate"; however, drier than average conditions persist, and another extreme drought event may occur (NOAA 2015, in litt.). In addition, El Nino conditions in the Pacific (see "Climate Change" under Factor E, below), a half-century of decline in annual rainfall, and intermittent dry spells have contributed to the conditions favoring wildfires in all the main Hawaiian Islands (Marcus 2010, in litt.). Species at risk because of wildfire on Hawaii Island include the plants Exocarpos menziesii, Festuca hawaiiensis, Joinvillea ascendens ssp. ascendens, Ochrosia haleakalae, Portulaca villosa, Ranunculus mauiensis, Sanicula sandwicensis, Sicyos macrophyllus, and Solanum nelsonii, and the yellow-faced bee Hylaeus anthracinus.
In summary, fire is a threat to 14 plant species and their habitat (Exocarpos menziesii, Festuca hawaiiensis, Joinvillea ascendens ssp. ascendens, Labordia lorenciana, Nothocestrum latifolium, Ochrosia haleakalae, Portulaca villosa, Ranunculus mauiensis, Sanicula sandwicensis, Santalum involutum, Schiedea pubescens, Sicyos lanceoloideus, S. macrophyllus, and Solanum nelsonii), and all seven yellow-faced bees because these species and their habitat are located in or near areas that were burned previously, or in areas considered at risk because of fire due to the cumulative and compounding effects of drought and the presence of highly flammable nonnative grasses.
Habitat Destruction and Modification by Hurricanes
Ten of the 11 ecosystems (all except the anchialine pool ecosystem) where these species occur are at risk of habitat destruction and modification by hurricanes. Hurricanes exacerbate the impacts of other threats such as habitat destruction and modification by ungulates and competition with nonnative plants. By destroying native vegetation, hurricanes open the forest canopy, modify the availability of light, and create disturbed areas conducive to invasion by nonnative pest species (see "Habitat Destruction and Modification by Nonnative Plants", above) (Asner and Goldstein 1997, p. 148; Harrington et al. 1997, pp. 539-540). In addition, hurricanes adversely affect native Hawaiian stream habitat by defoliating and toppling vegetation, thus loosening the surrounding soil and increasing erosion. Along with catastrophic flooding, this soil and vegetative debris can be washed into streambeds (by hurricane-induced rain or subsequent rain storms), resulting in the scouring of stream bottoms and channels (Polhemus 1993a, 88 pp.). Natural disasters such as hurricanes can be particularly devastating to Hawaiian plant and animal species that persist in low numbers and in restricted ranges (Mitchell et al. 2005, p. 4-3).
Hurricanes affecting Hawaii were only rarely reported from ships in the area from the 1800s until 1949. Between 1950 and 1997, 22 hurricanes passed near or over the Hawaiian Islands, 5 of which caused serious damage (Businger 1998, pp. 1-2). In November 1982, Hurricane Iwa struck the Hawaiian Islands with wind gusts exceeding 100 miles per hour (mph) (160 kilometers per hour (kmh)), causing extensive damage, especially on the islands of Kauai, Niihau, and Oahu (Businger 1998, pp. 2, 6). Many forest trees were destroyed (Perlman 1992, pp. 1-9), which opened the canopy and facilitated the invasion of native forest by nonnative plants (Kitayama and Mueller-Dombois 1995, p. 671). Hurricanes therefore exacerbate the threats posed by nonnative plants, as described in "Habitat Destruction and Modification by Nonnative Plants," above. In September 1992, Hurricane Iniki, a category 4 hurricane with maximum sustained winds of 130 mph (209 kmh, 113 knots), passed directly over the island of Kauai and close to the island of Oahu, causing significant damage to Kauai and along Oahu's southwestern coast (Blake et al. 2007, pp. 20, 24). Biologists documented damage to the habitat of six endangered plant species on Kauai, and one plant on Oahu. Polhemus (1993a, pp. 86-87) documented the extirpation of the scarlet Kauai damselfly (Megalagrion vagabundum) (a species related to M. xanthomelas), from the entire Hanakapiai Stream system on the island of Kauai as a result of the impacts of Hurricane Iniki. Damage by future hurricanes will further alter the remaining native-plant dominated habitat for rare plants and animals in native ecosystems of Kauai, Oahu, and other Hawaiian Islands (Bellingham et al. 2005, p. 681) (see "Climate Change" under Factor E. Other Natural or Manmade Factors Affecting Their Continued Existence, below).
In summary, hurricanes exacerbate other habitat threats, such as competition with nonnative plants, as well as result in direct habitat destruction. This is a particular problem for the plant Pritchardia bakeri, the band-rumped storm-petrel, the orangeblack Hawaiian damselfly, and all seven yellow-faced bees.
Habitat Modification and Destruction Due to Landslides, Rockfalls, Treefall, Flooding, Erosion, Drought, and Tsunamis
Habitat destruction and modification by landslides, rockfalls, treefall, flooding, erosion, and drought (singly or in combination) is a threat to all 11 ecosystems in which these species occur. Landslides, rockfalls, treefall, flooding, and erosion change native plant and animal communities by destabilizing substrates, damaging or destroying individual plants, and altering hydrological patterns. In the open sea near Hawaii, rainfall averages 25 to 30 inches (in) (630 to 760 millimeters (mm)) per year, yet the islands may receive up to 15 times this amount in some places, caused by orographic features (topography) (Wagner et al. 1999, adapted from Price (1983) and Carlquist (1980), pp. 38-39). During storms, rain may fall at rates of 3 in (76 mm) per hour or more, and sometimes may reach nearly 40 in (1,000 mm) in 24 hours, resulting in destructive flash-flooding in streams and narrow gulches (Wagner et al. 1999, adapted from Price (1983) and Carlquist (1980), pp. 38-39). Due to the steep topography in many mountainous areas on the Hawaiian Islands, disturbance caused by introduced ungulates exacerbates erosion and increases the potential for landslides, rockfalls, or flooding, which in turn damages or destroys native plants and disturbs habitat of the band-rumped storm-petrel (see Table 2). These events could eliminate one or more isolated occurrences of species that persist in low numbers and a limited geographic range, resulting in reduced redundancy and resilience of the species.
Landslides, rockfalls, treefall, flooding, and erosion are threats to 20 plant species (Cyanea kauaulaensis, Cyclosorus boydiae, Deparia kaalaana, Dryopteris glabra var. pusilla, Gardenia remyi, Joinvillea ascendens ssp. ascendens, Kadua fluviatilis, K. haupuensis, Labordia lorenciana, Lepidium orbiculare, Phyllostegia brevidens, P. helleri, P. stachyoides, Portulaca villosa, Pseudognaphalium sandwicensium var. molokaiense, Ranunculus hawaiensis, R. mauiensis, Sanicula sandwicensis, Schiedea pubescens, and Solanum nelsonii) and to the band-rumped storm-petrel and the orangeblack Hawaiian damselfly. Landslides, rockfalls, and erosion can directly affect nests and nesting habitat of the band-rumped storm-petrel. Destabilization of cliff habitat leads to additional landslides and alteration of hydrological patterns, affecting the availability of soil moisture. Landslides also destroy and modify riparian and stream habitat by direct physical damage, and create disturbed areas leading to invasion by nonnative plants, as well as damaging or destroying plants directly. Kadua haupuensis, Labordia lorenciana, Lepidium orbiculare, Phyllostegia brevidens, and P. helleri are known only from a few individuals in single occurrences on cliffs or steep-walled stream valleys, and one landslide could extirpate a species by direct destruction. Monitoring data presented by the Plant Extinction Prevention Program (PEPP) and botanical surveys suggest that flooding is a likely threat to eight plant species, Cyanea kauaulaensis, Cyclosorus boydiae, Deparia kaalaana, Labordia lorenciana, Phyllostegia stachyoides, Sanicula sandwicensis, Schiedea pubescens, and Solanum nelsonii, as some individuals occur on stream banks (Wood et al. 2007, p. 198; PEPP 2011, pp. 162-164; Oppenheimer and Lorence 2012, pp. 20-21; PEPP 2013, p. 54; PEPP 2014, pp. 95, 142). The naiad life stage of the orangeblack Hawaiian damselfly would be destroyed by flooding if an individual is carried out of suitable habitat or into areas occupied by nonnative fish.
Drought is reported to be a threat to 10 plants (Cyclosorus boydiae, Deparia kaalaana, Huperzia stemmermanniae, Phyllostegia stachyoides, Ranunculus hawaiensis, R. mauiensis, Sanicula sandwicensis, Schiedea pubescens, Sicyos lanceoloideus, and Solanum nelsonii), the orangeblack Hawaiian damselfly (directly or by desiccation of streams and ponds), and all seven yellow-faced bees (Magnacca 2007, pp. 181, 183; Polhemus 2008, p. 26; Chu et al. 2010, pp. 4887, 4891, 4898; PEPP 2011, pp. 162-164; Fortini et al. 2013, p. 2; PEPP 2013, p. 177; PEPP 2014, pp. 140-142, 154-156, 162, 166-167). Between 1860 and 2002, there were 49 periods of drought on Oahu, 30 periods of drought on Molokai, Lanai, and Maui, and at least 18 serious or severe drought events on Hawaii Island (Giambelluca et al. 1991, pp. 3-4; Hawaii Commission on Water Resource Management (CWRM) 2009, in litt.; Hawaii Civil Defense 2011, pp. 14-1-14-12). The most severe drought events over the past 15 years were associated with the El Nino phenomenon (Hawaii Civil Defense 2011, p. 14-3). In 1998, the city of Hilo had the lowest January total rainfall (0.014 in) ever observed for any month since records have been kept, with average rainfall being almost 10 in for January (Hawaii Civil Defense 2011, p. 14-3). Currently, the State remains under abnormally dry to moderate drought conditions, with the onset of another El Nino event (U.S. Drought Monitor 2015, in litt., National Weather Service 2015, in litt.). Drought events dry up streams, irrigation ditches, and reservoirs, and deplete groundwater supplies (Hawaii CWRM 2009, in litt.). Recent episodes of drought have driven axis deer farther into forested areas in search of food, increasing their negative impacts on native vegetation from herbivory, bark stripping, and trampling (see Factor C. Disease or Predation, below) (Waring 1996, in litt; Nishibayashi 2001, in litt.). Drought events could eliminate one or more isolated populations of a species that currently persists in low numbers and a limited geographic range, resulting in reduced redundancy and resilience of the species or extinction.
Tsunamis destroy and modify habitat for species in Northwestern Hawaiian Islands and in low-lying coastal areas of the main Hawaiian Islands. Tsunamis in Hawaii are caused by earthquakes, submarine landslides, and volcanic eruptions that may occur within the archipelago or in distant parts of the Pacific. These events disturb the ocean's surface, and gravity combined with the water's motion produces a series of long-period waves that travel quickly and can reach heights of 32 ft (10 m) or more when reaching land. Major tsunamis occur worldwide about once every 10 years, on average, and almost 60 percent of those occur in the Pacific Ocean (Pacific Tsunami Warning Center, http://ptwc.weather.gov/ptwc/faq.php#8, accessed June 2016). In 2011, a tsunami caused by an earthquake in Japan reached Hawaii and the Northwestern Hawaiian Islands. This tsunami swept over Midway Atoll's Eastern Island and Kure Atoll's Green Island, where it inundated plants, spread plastic debris, killed thousands of seabirds, and destroyed seabird nesting areas as it traveled about 500 ft (150 m) inland (DOFAW 2011, in litt.; Starr 2011, in litt.; USFWS 2011, in litt.). This threat could occur at any time and negatively affect occurrences and habitat of the plant Solanum nelsonii and the yellow-faced bees Hylaeus anthracinus, H. assimulans, H. facilis, H. hilaris, and H. longiceps.
Habitat Destruction and Modification by Water Extraction
Freshwater habitats on all the main Hawaiian Islands have been severely altered and degraded because of past and present land and water management practices, including agriculture, urban development, and development of ground water, perched aquifer, and surface water resources (Harris et al. 1993, p. 11; Meier et al. 1993, p. 181). Extensive modification of lentic (standing water) habitat in the Hawaiian Islands began about 1100 A.D. with a rapid increase in the human population (Harris et al. 1993, p. 9; Kirch 1982, pp. 5-6). Hawaiians cultivated Colocasia esculenta (kalo, taro) by creating shallow, walled ponds, or loi, in marshes and riparian areas (Meier et al. 1993, p. 181; Handy and Handy 1972, p. 58). By 1778, virtually all valley bottoms with permanent stream flow and most basin marshes were converted to taro cultivation (Handy and Handy 1972, pp. 396, 411). Hawaiians also modified wetlands by constructing fishponds, many of which were primarily fresh water, fed by streams or springs (Meier et al. 1993, p. 181). Despite this habitat modification by early Hawaiians, many areas of extensive marshland remained intact and were used by the native damselflies. Over time, however, many of the wetlands formerly used for taro were drained and filled for dry-land agriculture or development (Stone 1989, p. 129; Meier et al. 1993, pp. 181-182). In addition, marshes are slowly filled and converted to meadow habitat due to increased sedimentation resulting from increased storm water runoff from upslope development and blockage of downslope drainage (Wilson Okamoto and Associates, Inc. 1993, p. 3-5). Presently the most significant threat to the remaining natural ponds and marshes in Hawaii, habitat for the orangeblack Hawaiian damselfly, is the nonnative grass species Urochloa mutica. This sprawling, perennial grass was first observed on Oahu in 1924, and now occurs on all the main islands (O'Connor 1999, p. 1504). This species forms dense, monotypic stands that can completely eliminate any open water by layering of its trailing stems (Smith 1985, p. 186).
Similar to the loss of wetlands in Hawaii, the loss of streams has been significant and began with the early Hawaiians who modified stream systems by diverting water to irrigate taro. However, these Hawaiian-made diversions were closely regulated and were not permitted to take more than half the stream flow, and were typically used to flood taro loi only periodically (Handy and Handy 1972, pp. 58-59). The advent of sugarcane plantations in 1835 led to more extensive stream diversions. These systems were typically designed to tap water at upper elevation sources (above 980 ft (300 m)) by means of concrete weirs. All or most of the stream flow was diverted into fields or reservoirs (Takasaki et al. 1969, p. 65; Harris et al. 1993, p. 10). By the 1930s, major water diversions had been developed on all the main islands, and currently one-third of Hawaii's perennial streams are diverted (Harris et al. 1993, p. 10). In addition to diverting water for agriculture and domestic water supply, streams have been diverted for use in producing hydroelectric power (Hawaii Stream Assessment 1990, p. 96). Surface flow has also been diverted into channels, and the perched aquifers which fed the streams have been tapped by means of tunnels (Stearns and Vaksvik 1935, pp. 365, 378-434; Stearns 1985, p. 291, 301-303). Many of these aquifers are the sources of springs, which contribute flow to streams. The draining of these aquifers causes springs to become dry (Stearns and Vaksvik 1935, pp. 380, 388; USGS 2000, in litt.). Most remaining streams that are not already diverted have been, and continue to be, seriously degraded by the activities of feral ungulates and by nonnative plants. Channelization has not been restricted to lower reaches, and it results in the loss of riparian vegetation, increasing flow velocity, illumination, and water temperature (Parrish et al. 1984, pp. 83-84). These conditions make the channels unsuitable as habitat for the orangeblack Hawaiian damselfly.
Water extraction (e.g., withdrawal of subsurface fresh water for development and human use) from underground fresh water sources increases salinity levels of anchialine pools and negatively affect the anchialine pool shrimp, Procaris hawaiana, which relies on the delicate balance of mixohaline (brackish water) habitats (Conry 2012, in litt.; National Park Service 2016, in litt.). Water extraction also negatively affects the plant Cyclosorus boydiae and the orangeblack Hawaiian damselfly by degrading or destroying habitat for these species (Harris et al. 1993, pp. 9-13; Medeiros et al. 1993, p. 88; Meier et al. 1993, pp. 181-183; Palmer 2003, p. 88).
Habitat Destruction and Modification by Climate Change
Climate change affects the habitat of the 49 species. Discussion of climate change impacts is included in our complete discussion of climate change under Factor E. Other Natural or Manmade Factors Affecting Their Continued Existence, below.
Summary of Factor A
Destruction and modification of the habitat of each of the 49 species addressed in this rule is occurring throughout the entire range of each of the species. These impacts include the effects of agriculture and urban development, introduced ungulates, nonnative plants, fire, hurricanes, landslides, rockfalls, treefall, flooding, erosion, drought, tsunamis, and water extraction.
Habitat destruction and modification by agriculture and urban development is an ongoing and serious threat to the plant Cyclosorus boydiae, the orangeblack Hawaiian damselfly, the anchialine pool shrimp Procaris hawaiana, and the yellow-faced bees Hylaeus anthracinus, H. assimulans, H. facilis, H. hilaris, and H. longiceps. Conversion of wetland and other aquatic habitat (i.e., water extraction) for agriculture and urban development is ongoing, is expected to continue into the future, and affects the orangeblack Hawaiian damselfly by removing habitat required for hunting and breeding. Water extraction affects the orangeblack Hawaiian damselfly because it (1) Reduces the amount and distribution of stream habitat; (2) reduces stream flow and habitat; and (3) leads to an increase in water temperature, which causes physiological stress to the damselfly naiads. Water extraction affects the delicate balance of the anchialine pool ecosystem, including salinity and biota, negatively affecting the anchialine pool shrimp, Procaris hawaiana. Loss of stream-course habitat affects Cyclosorus boydiae because this is the only habitat where this riparian species occurs.
The threat of habitat destruction and modification by ungulates is ongoing as ungulates currently occur in all ecosystems on which these species depend except the anchialine pool system. Introduced ungulates pose a threat to 37 of the 39 plants (except for Cyanea kauaulaensis and Hypolepis hawaiiensis var. mauiensis), and 9 of the 10 animal species (all except for the anchialine pool shrimp) in this rule that occur in these 10 ecosystems because ungulates: (1) Directly affect the species by trampling and grazing (see Factor C discussion, below); (2) increase soil disturbance and erosion; (3) create open, disturbed areas conducive to nonnative plant invasion by dispersing fruits and seeds, which results in conversion of a native-dominated plant community to a nonnative-dominated plant community; and (4) increase marsh and stream disturbance and sedimentation, which negatively affects these aquatic habitats.
Habitat destruction and modification by nonnative plants is a serious and ongoing current threat to all 39 plant species because nonnative plants: (1) Adversely affect microhabitat by modifying the availability of light; (2) alter soil-water regimes; (3) modify nutrient cycling processes; (4) alter fire ecology, leading to incursions of fire-tolerant nonnative plant species into native habitat; (5) outcompete, and possibly directly inhibit (through allelopathy) the growth of native plant species; and (6) alter habitat and substrate such that erosion leading to rockfalls and landslides may increase. Each of these processes can convert native-dominated plant communities to nonnative plant communities (Cuddihy and Stone 1990, p. 74; Vitousek 1992, pp. 33-35).
The threat of habitat destruction and modification by fire to 14 plant species (Exocarpos menziesii, Festuca hawaiiensis, Joinvillea ascendens ssp. ascendens, Labordia lorenciana, Nothocestrum latifolium, Ochrosia haleakalae, Portulaca villosa, Ranunculus mauiensis, Sanicula sandwicensis, Santalum involutum, Schiedea pubescens, Sicyos lanceoloideus, S. macrophyllus, and Solanum nelsonii) and all seven yellow-faced bee species is serious and ongoing because fires occur frequently and damage and destroy native vegetation, including dormant seeds, seedlings, and juvenile and adult plants, including host plants for the bees. Many nonnative, invasive plants, particularly fire-tolerant grasses, create more destructive fires, invade burned areas, and can out-compete native plants and inhibit their regeneration (D'Antonio and Vitousek 1992, pp. 70, 73-74; Tunison et al. 2002, p. 122). Successive fires that burn farther and farther into native habitat destroy the ecosystem and its components upon which these species depend.
Habitat destruction and modification by natural disasters such as hurricanes represent a serious threat to the plant Pritchardia bakeri, the band-rumped storm-petrel, the orangeblack Hawaiian damselfly, and all seven yellow-faced bee species. Hurricanes open the forest canopy, modifying available light and creating disturbed areas that are conducive to invasion by nonnative plants (Asner and Goldstein 1997, p. 148; Harrington et al. 1997, pp. 346-347). The discussion under "Habitat Destruction and Modification by Nonnative Plants" provides additional information related to canopy gaps, light availability, and the establishment of nonnative plant species. In addition, hurricanes cause mortality of birds, including adults and chicks drowned when nest sites are flooded (Schreiber 2002, p. 186; Hass et al. 2012, pp. 252-253). Hurricanes also destroy nesting habitat, a particular problem for species like storm-petrels that return to the same nest site each year (Schreiber 2002, p. 186). These hurricane impacts are likely for the band-rumped storm-petrel. Finally, hurricanes can alter and directly damage streams and wetlands used by the orangeblack Hawaiian damselfly (Polhemus 1993a, pp. 86-87). The impacts from hurricanes can be particularly devastating to these species because they persist in low numbers in restricted ranges and are therefore less resilient to such disturbances. A single destructive hurricane holds the potential of driving to extinction species that persist as one or several small, isolated populations.
Landslides, rockfalls, treefalls, flooding, and erosion (singly or combined) are a threat to 20 plant species (Cyanea kauaulaensis, Cyclosorus boydiae, Deparia kaalaana, Dryopteris glabra var. pusilla, Gardenia remyi, Joinvillea ascendens ssp. ascendens, Kadua fluviatilis, K. haupuensis, Labordia lorenciana, Lepidium orbiculare, Phyllostegia brevidens, P. helleri, P. stachyoides, Portulaca villosa, Pseudognaphalium sandwicensium var. molokaiense, Ranunculus hawaiensis, R. mauiensis, Sanicula sandwicensis, Schiedea pubescens, and Solanum nelsonii), the band-rumped storm-petrel, and the orangeblack Hawaiian damselfly by destabilizing substrates, damaging and killing individuals, altering hydrological patterns, and destroying or modifying habitat--all resulting in changes to native plant and animal communities. Drought is a threat to 10 plant species (Cyclosorus boydiae, Deparia kaalaana, Huperzia stemmermanniae, Phyllostegia stachyoides, Ranunculus hawaiensis, R. mauiensis, Sanicula sandwicensis, Schiedea pubescens, Sicyos lanceoloideus, and Solanum nelsonii), the orangeblack Hawaiian damselfly (directly or by desiccation of streams and ponds), and all seven yellow-faced bee species (and the host plants upon which all seven yellow-faced bees depend).
Habitat destruction and modification by over-washing of low-lying areas by tsunamis is a threat to coastal species, including Solanum nelsonii, Hylaeus anthracinus, H. assimulans, H. facilis, H. hilaris, and H. longiceps.
Factor B. Overutilization for Commercial, Recreational, Scientific, or Educational Purposes
Plants
We are not aware of any threats to the 39 plant species that would be attributed to overutilization for commercial, recreational, scientific, or educational purposes.
Animals
Anchialine Pool Shrimp
Illegal collection is a threat to the anchialine pool shrimp Procaris hawaiana because of inadequate monitoring and enforcement at the pools where this species occurs. All terrestrial and aquatic invertebrates (including anchialine pool shrimp) are protected under (1) the State of Hawaii Revised Statutes (1993) chapter 195D-4-f license; and (2) DLNR chapter 124: Indigenous Wildlife, Endangered and Threatened Wildlife, and Introduced Wild Birds. Collection of plants and animals is prohibited in the State Natural Area Reserves (NARs) Ahihi-Kinau (Maui) and Manuka (Hawaii Island), but enforcement of prohibitions is insufficient to prevent illegal collecting at these remote sites. Collection is not prohibited in State Parks or City and County property where some anchialine pools occur, and is not expressly prohibited at Lua O Palahemo (Hawaii Island), and thus no regulatory protection of these shrimp exists at the remaining five anchialine pools outside of Manuka NAR that are known to contain P. hawaiana. A Native Invertebrate Research and Collecting permit issued by DLNR's Division of Forestry and Wildlife is required to collect anchialine pool shrimp for research or commercial purposes, and the commercial market is supported by legal, permitted collection. We expect that permit holders, whether they are collecting for scientific or commercial purposes, adhere to the conditions of their permit and do not pose a threat to P. hawaiana. However, we consider illegal collection of this anchialine pool shrimp, P. hawaiana, to be an ongoing threat because, despite the prohibition on collecting within the NARs and the permitting process for collection elsewhere, collection can occur at any time owing to insufficient patrolling or other monitoring or enforcement at the pools where P. hawaiana occurs.
Factor C. Disease or Predation
Disease
We are not aware of any current threats to the 49 species that would be attributable to disease. Disease may be a potential threat to the yellow-faced bee Hylaeus anthracinus, as pathogens carried by nonnative bees, wasps, and ants could be transmitted through shared food sources (Graham 2015, in litt.); however, we have no evidence of this type of disease transmission at this time.
Predation
Hawaii's plants and animals evolved in nearly complete isolation from continental influence. Successful, natural colonization of these remote volcanic islands is infrequent, and many organisms never succeeded in establishing populations. As an example, Hawaii lacks native ants and conifers, has very few families of birds, and has only had two native species of land mammal, both insectivorous bats (Loope 1998, p. 748; Ziegler 2002, pp. 244-245). In the absence of grazing or browsing mammals, plants that became established did not need mechanical or chemical defenses against mammalian herbivory such as thorns, prickles, and toxins. Because the evolutionary pressure to either produce or maintain such defenses was lacking, Hawaiian plants either lost or never developed these adaptations (Carlquist 1980, p. 173). Likewise, native Hawaiian birds and insects experienced no evolutionary pressure to develop defense mechanisms against mammalian or invertebrate predators that were not historically present on the islands. The native flora and fauna are thus particularly vulnerable to the impacts of introduced nonnative species, as discussed below.
Introduced Ungulates
In addition to the habitat impacts discussed above (see "Habitat Destruction and Modification by Introduced Ungulates" under Factor A. The Present or Threatened Destruction, Modification, or Curtailment of Their Habitat or Range), grazing and browsing (predation) by introduced ungulates are a threat to the following 27 plant species in this proposal (see Table 2, above): Asplenium diellaciniatum (black-tailed deer); Calamagrostis expansa (pigs), Cyclosorus boydiae (pigs), Deparia kaalaana (pigs), Exocarpos menziesii (goats, mouflon, sheep), Festuca hawaiiensis (goats, sheep), Gardenia remyi (pigs, goats, axis deer), Huperzia stemmermanniae (goats, axis deer, cattle), Joinvillea ascendens ssp. ascendens (pigs, goats, axis deer, black-tailed deer), Kadua fluviatilis (pigs, goats), Labordia lorenciana (goats, black-tailed deer), Microlepia strigosa var. mauiensis (pigs), Myrsine fosbergii (pigs, goats), Nothocestrum latifolium (pigs, goats, axis deer, black-tailed deer, mouflon, cattle), Ochrosia haleakalae (goats, cattle), Phyllostegia brevidens (pigs), P. stachyoides (pigs, goats), Portulaca villosa (goats, axis deer, mouflon), Pseudognaphalium sandwicensium var. molokaiense (axis deer), Ranunculus hawaiensis (pigs, mouflon, cattle), R. mauiensis (pigs, goats, axis deer, black-tailed deer, cattle), Sanicula sandwicensis (goats), Santalum involutum (goats), Schiedea pubescens (axis deer, cattle), Sicyos lanceoloideus (goats, black-tailed deer), S. macrophyllus (mouflon, cattle), and Solanum nelsonii (axis deer, cattle).
Feral Pigs
We have direct evidence of ungulate damage to some of the 39 plant species, but for many, due to their remote locations or lack of study, ungulate damage is presumed based on the known presence of these introduced ungulates in the areas where these species occur and the results of studies involving similar species or ecosystems conducted in Hawaii and elsewhere (Diong 1982, p. 160; Mueller-Dombois and Spatz, 1975, pp. 1-29; Hess 2008, 4 pp.; Weller et al. 2011, p. 8). For example, in a study conducted by Diong (1982, p. 160) on Maui, feral pigs were observed browsing on young shoots, leaves, and fronds of a wide variety of plants, of which over 75 percent were endemic species. A stomach-content analysis in this study showed that most of the pigs' food source consisted of the endemic Cibotium (hapuu, tree fern). Pigs were observed to fell native plants and remove the bark from standing plants of species in the genera Cibotium, Clermontia, Coprosma, Hedyotis [Kadua ], Psychotria, and Scaevola, resulting in larger trees and shrubs dying after a few months of repeated feeding (Diong 1982, p. 144). Beach (1997, pp. 3-4) found that feral pigs in Texas spread disease and parasites, and their rooting and wallowing behavior led to spoilage of watering holes and loss of soil through leaching and erosion. Rooting activity by pigs also decreased the survivability of some plant species through disruption at root level of mature plants and seedlings (Beach 1997, pp. 3-4; Anderson et al. 2007, in litt.). In Hawaii, pigs dig up forest ground cover consisting of delicate and rare species of orchids, ferns, mints, lobeliads, and other taxa, including their roots, tubers, and rhizomes (Stone and Anderson 1988, p. 137). The following plants are particularly at risk of herbivory by feral pigs: Calamagrostis expansa on Maui and Hawaii Island (HBMP 2010); Cyclosorus boydiae on Oahu (HBMP 2010); Deparia kaalaana on Maui (HBMP 2010); Gardenia remyi on Hawaii Island (PEPP 2011, pp. 113-114; PEPP 2012, p. 102), west Maui (HBMP 2010), Molokai (HBMP 2010) and Kauai (HBMP 2010); Joinvillea ascendens ssp. ascendens on Hawaii Island (PEPP 2011, pp. 120-121; PEPP 2012, p. 113; HBMP 2010), Kauai (PEPP 2014, p. 109; HBMP 2010), Maui (HBMP 2010), Molokai (HBMP 2010), and Oahu (HBMP 2010); Kadua fluviatilis on Kauai (HBMP 2010) and Oahu (HBMP 2010); Microlepia strigosa var. mauiensis on Maui (Bily 2009, in litt.; Oppenheimer 2007, in litt.); Myrsine fosbergii on Kauai (HBMP 2010); Nothocestrum latifolium on Maui (PEPP 2011, p. 140; HBMP 2010) and Molokai (HBMP 2010); Phyllostegia brevidens on Maui and Hawaii Island (PEPP 2014, p. 36); P. stachyoides on Molokai (PEPP 2014, pp. 140-141); Ranunculus hawaiensis on Hawaii Island (HBMP 2010); and R. mauiensis on Kauai (PEPP 2011, p. 161; PEPP 2013, p. 177; PEPP 2014, p. 156; HBMP 2010), Maui (PEPP 2011, p. 144; PEPP 2013, pp. 177-178; PEPP 2014, p. 155; HBMP 2010), and Molokai (HBMP 2010). Feral pigs occur in 10 of the 11 ecosystems (all except anchialine pool) discussed here; the results of the studies described above suggest that foraging by pigs can directly damage and destroy these plants through herbivory. Feral pigs may also consume native host plants of the yellow-faced bees Hylaeus anthracinus, H. assimulans, H. facilis, H. hilaris, H. kuakea, H. longiceps, and H. mana.
Feral Goats
Feral goats are able to forage in extremely rugged terrain and are instrumental in the decline of native vegetation in many areas of the Hawaiian Islands (Cuddihy and Stone 1990, p. 64; Clarke and Cuddihy 1980, p. C-20; van Riper and van Riper 1982, pp. 34-35; Tomich 1986, pp. 153-156). Feral goats consume a variety of plants for food and have been observed to browse on (but are not limited to) native plant species in the following genera: Argyroxiphium, Canavalia, Chamaesyce, Erythrina, Plantago, Schiedea, and Stenogyne (Cuddihy and Stone 1990, p. 64; Warren 2004, p. 462; Wood 2007, pers. comm.). A study conducted on the island of Hawaii demonstrated that native Acacia koa seedlings are unable to survive due to browsing and grazing by goats (Spatz and Mueller-Dombois 1973, p. 874). If goats remained in the area in high numbers, mature trees eventually died and with them the root systems that supported suckers and vegetative reproduction. When feral goats were excluded by fences for 3 years, there was a positive height-growth response of A. koa suckers (Spatz and Mueller-Dombois 1973, p. 873). Another study at Puuwaawaa on Hawaii Island demonstrated that prior to management actions in 1985, regeneration of endemic shrubs and trees in a goat-grazed area was almost totally lacking, contributing to the invasion of forest understory by exotic grasses and weeds. After the removal of goats, A. koa and native Metrosideros seedlings were observed germinating by the thousands (HDLNR 2002, p. 52). Based on these studies, and other comparisons of fenced and unfenced areas, it is clear that goats devastate native Hawaiian ecosystems (Loope et al. 1988, p. 277). Because feral goats occur in 10 of the 11 ecosystems (all except anchialine pool) discussed in this proposal, the results of the studies described above indicate that goats likely also alter these ecosystems and directly damage or destroy native plants. Browsing or grazing by feral goats poses a particular threat to the following plant species: Exocarpos menziesii on Hawaii Island (NTBG Herbarium Database 2014, in litt.), Festuca hawaiiensis on Hawaii Island (Wood 2001b, in litt.), Gardenia remyi on Kauai (PEPP 2011, p. 114; PEPP 2013, p. 107; Kishida 2011, in litt.), Huperzia stemmermanniae on Hawaii Island (HBMP 2010), Joinvillea ascendens ssp. ascendens on Kauai (PEPP 2010, p. 80), Kadua fluviatilis on Kauai (HBMP 2010), Labordia lorenciana on Kauai (PEPP 2011, p. 124; PEPP 2013, p. 126), Myrsine fosbergii on Kauai (HBMP 2010), Nothocestrum latifolium on Maui (HBMP 2010), Ochrosia haleakalae on Maui and Hawaii Island (HBMP 2010), Phyllostegia stachyoides on Molokai (HBMP 2010), Portulaca villosa on Hawaii Island (PEPP 2012, p. 140), Ranunculus mauiensis on Kauai and Maui (PEPP 2011, p. 161; PEPP 2012, p. 144; PEPP 2013, pp. 177-178; PEPP 2014, pp. 155-156; Kishida 2011, in litt.), Sanicula sandwicensis on Maui (PEPP 2011, p. 163), and Sicyos lanceoloideus on Kauai (PEPP 2012, p. 154; PEPP 2013, p. 189). In addition, browsing by feral goats may also damage or destroy native host plants of the yellow-faced bees Hylaeus anthracinus, H. assimulans, H. facilis, and H. hilaris.
Axis Deer
Axis deer are known to consume a wide range of forage items throughout their native range and in areas where they have been introduced (Anderson 1999, p. 3). Although they prefer to graze on grass, axis deer have been documented to eat over 75 species of plants, including all plant parts (Anderson 1999, p. 3). They exhibit a high degree of opportunism regarding their choice of forage, and consume progressively less palatable plants until no edible vegetation remains (Dinerstein 1987, in Anderson 1999, p. 5; Medeiros 2010, pers. comm.). Axis deer on Maui follow a cycle of grazing and browsing in open lowland grasslands during the rainy season (November through March) and then migrating to the lava flows of montane mesic forest during the dry summer months to graze and browse on many native plant species, for example, Abutilon menziesii (kooloaula, listed endangered), Erythrina sandwicensis (wiliwili), and Sida fallax (Medeiros 2010, pers. comm.). During the El Nino drought cycles from 1988 through 2001, Maui experienced an 80 to 90 percent decline in native shrub species caused by axis deer browsing on and girdling young saplings (Medeiros 2010, pers. comm.). On Lanai, grazing by axis deer has been reported as a major threat to the endangered Gardenia brighamii (nanu), and Swedberg and Walker (1978, in Anderson 2003, pp. 124-25) reported that the native plants Osteomeles anthyllidifolia (uulei) and Leptecophylla tameiameiae (pukiawe) comprised more than 30 percent of axis deer rumen volume. During the driest summer months, axis deer are observed in coastal areas in search of food (Medeiros 2010, pers. comm.). Because axis deer occur in 10 of the 11 ecosystems on Molokai, Lanai, and Maui (all except anchialine pool), the results from the studies above, in addition to direct observations from field biologists, suggest that axis deer can also alter these ecosystems and directly damage or destroy native plants. Browsing or grazing by axis deer poses a threat to the following plant species: Gardenia remyi on Molokai (HBMP 2010), Huperzia stemmermanniae on Maui (HBMP 2010), Joinvillea ascendens ssp. ascendens on Maui (PEPP 2014, pp. 108-109), Nothocestrum latifolium on Lanai (PEPP 2012, p. 129), Portulaca villosa on Lanai (HBMP 2010), Pseudognaphalium sandwicensium var. molokaiense on Molokai (Wood 2005c, in litt.; Kallstrom 2008, in litt.; MNTF 2010), Ranunculus mauiensis on Maui (PEPP 2013, p. 178; PEPP 2014, pp. 154-155), Schiedea pubescens on Molokai and Lanai (Wood 2004, in litt.; Rowland 2006, in litt.; Oppenheimer 2001, in litt.), and Solanum nelsonii on Molokai (PEPP 2012, p. 156; PEPP 2013, pp. 190-191; PEPP 2014, p. 167). Axis deer may also damage or destroy native host plants of the yellow-faced bees Hylaeus anthracinus, H. assimulans, H. facilis, H. hilaris, and H. longiceps.
Black-Tailed Deer
Black-tailed deer are extremely adaptable, and in their native range (U.S. Pacific coast) inhabit every principal ecosystem including open grasslands, agricultural land, shrubland, woodland, mountain forests, semi-deserts, and high mountain ecosystems (NRCS 2005, in litt.). Their home range size varies in the continental United States, but has been estimated to from 1 to 4 sq mi (2.5 to 10 km) and sometimes as large as 30 sq mi (78 sq km), with adults defending small areas when caring for fawns (NRCS 2005, in litt.). We do not know their home range size on Kauai; however, the island is only 562 sq mi (1,456 sq km) in size. Black-tailed deer are primarily browsers, but as they have a smaller rumen compared to other browsers in relation to their body size, they must select the most nutritious plants and parts of plants (Mule Deer Foundation 2011, in litt.). Their diet consist of a diversity of living, wilted, dry, or decaying vegetation, including leaves, needles, succulent stems, fruits, nuts, shrubs, herbaceous undergrowth, domestic crops, and grasses (NRCS 2005, in litt.). Black-tailed deer consume native vegetation on the island of Kauai (van Riper and van Riper 1982, pp. 42-43; Stone 1985, pp. 262-263; Tomich 1986, pp. 132-134; Cuddihy and Stone 1990, p. 67). In the 1990s, it was estimated there were about 350 animals in and near Waimea Canyon; however, in 2013, the population was estimated to be 1,000 to 1,200 animals in public hunting areas (not including private lands), and was expanding into the southern and eastern sections of the island (Mule Deer Working Group 2013, in litt.). According to State records, black-tailed deer are feeding largely on the introduced species Psidium cattleianum and Rubus rosifolius, as well as the native species Alyxia stellata (maile), Dodonaea viscosa (aalii), Dianella sandwicensis (ukiuki), Coprosma sp. (pilo), and Acacia koa (Cuddihy and Stone 1990, p. 67). Browsing by black-tailed deer is a threat to the Kauai plant species Asplenium diellaciniatum, Joinvillea ascendens ssp. ascendens, Labordia lorenciana, Nothocestrum latifolium, Ranunculus mauiensis, and Sicyos lanceoloideus.
Mouflon and Sheep
Mouflon, feral domestic sheep, and mouflon-sheep hybrids browse native vegetation on Lanai and Hawaii Island. Domestic sheep have been raised on Kauai, Lanai, Kahoolawe, and Hawaii, but today sheep farming only occurs on Hawaii Island on Mauna Kea and Hualalai (Pratt and Jacobi in Pratt et al. 2009, p. 151). Sheep browse (eating shoots, leaves, flowers, and bark) on the native Sophora chrysophylla (mamane), the primary food source of the endangered forest bird, the palila (Loxioides bailleui) (Scowcroft and Sakai 1983, p. 495). Feral sheep reductions were initiated in palila habitat; however, even after most were removed, tree bark stripping continued and some mamane populations did not recover (Pratt and Jacobi in Pratt et al. 2009, p. 151). On Hawaii Island, vegetation browsing by mouflon led to the decline of the largest population of the endangered Argyroxiphium kauense (kau silversword, Mauna Loa silversword, or ahinahina), reducing it from a "magnificent population of several thousand" (Degener et al. 1976, pp. 173-174) to fewer than 2,000 individuals in a period of 10 years (unpublished data in Powell 1992, p. 312). Mamane is also preferred browse for mouflon, and according to Scowcroft and Sakai (1983, p. 495), mouflon eat the shoots, leaves, flowers, and bark of this species. Mouflon are also reported to strip bark from native koa trees and to seek out the native plants Geranium cuneatum (hinahina) and Silene hawaiiensis, and Lanai occurrences of Gardenia brighamii (Benitez et al. 2008, p. 57; Mehrhoff 1993, p. 11). While mouflon were introduced to Lanai and Hawaii Island as game mammals, a private game ranch on Maui has added mouflon to its stock, and it is likely that over time some individuals may escape (Hess 2010, pers. comm.; Kessler 2010, pers. comm.). Browsing and grazing by mouflon, feral domestic sheep, and mouflon-sheep hybrids poses a threat to the plant species Exocarpos menziesii on Hawaii Island (Keitt and Island Conservation 2008, pp. 90, 92; NPS 2013, pp. i, 124); Festuca hawaiiensis on Hawaii Island (Oppenheimer 2001, in litt.; HBMP 2007, in litt.); Nothocestrum latifolium on Lanai (PEPP 2012, p. 129); Portulaca villosa on Lanai (HBMP 2010); Ranunculus hawaiensis on Hawaii Island (HBMP 2010); and Sicyos macrophyllus on Hawaii Island (HBMP 2010). Because feral sheep and mouflon occur in all of the described ecosystems except for the anchialine pool ecosystem, the data from studies above suggest that in addition to consuming the host plants of the yellow-faced bees Hylaeus anthracinus and H. assimulans on Lanai, herbivory by feral sheep and mouflon also may consume host plants of the other species on Lanai: H. facilis, H. hilaris, and H. longiceps.
Feral Cattle
Grazing by cattle is considered one of the most important factors in the destruction of Hawaiian forests (Baldwin and Fagerlund 1943, pp. 118-122). Feral cattle are currently found only on the islands of Molokai, Maui, and Hawaii (Tomich 1986, pp. 140-144; de Sa et al. 2013, 29 pp.). Cattle consume tree seedlings and browse saplings (Cuddihy 1984, p. 16). In Hawaii Volcanoes National Park (Hawaii Island), Cuddihy reported that there were twice as many native plant species as nonnatives in areas that had been fenced to exclude cattle (Cuddihy 1984, pp. 16, 34). Loss of the native sandalwood forest on Lanai is attributed to cattle (Skottsberg 1953 in Cuddihy 1984, p. 16). Browsing and grazing by feral cattle poses a threat to the following plant species: Huperzia stemmermanniae on Maui and Hawaii Island (Medeiros et al. 1996b, p. 96); Nothocestrum latifolium on Molokai and Maui (HBMP 2010); Ochrosia haleakalae on Maui (HBMP 2010); Ranunculus hawaiensis on Hawaii Island (HBMP 2010); R. mauiensis on Maui and Hawaii Island (PEPP 2012, p. 144; PEPP 2013, p. 178; PEPP 2014, pp. 154-155; HBMP 2010); Schiedea pubescens on Maui (Wood 2005d, in litt.; HBMP 2010); Sicyos macrophyllus on Hawaii Island (PEPP 2010, p. 111; HBMP 2010); and Solanum nelsonii on Molokai (Wood 1999, in litt.; HBMP 2010). Because feral cattle occur in 6 of the 11 ecosystems (lowland dry, lowland mesic, lowland wet, montane wet, montane mesic, and subalpine) in which these species occur on Molokai, Maui, and Hawaii Island, the results from the studies cited above, in addition to direct observations from field biologists, indicate that grazing by feral cattle can directly damage or destroy these plants.
Blackbuck
The blackbuck antelope (Antelope cervicapra) is an endangered species from India brought to a private game reserve on Molokai about 15 years ago from an Indian zoo (Kessler 2010, pers. comm.). According to Kessler (2010, pers. comm.), a few individuals escaped captivity and established a wild population of unknown size on the low, dry plains of western Molokai. Blackbuck primarily use grassland habitat for grazing. In India, foraging consumption and nutrient digestibility are high in the moist winter months and low in the dry summer months (Jhala 1997, pp. 1348, 1351). Although most plant species are grazed intensely when they are green, some are grazed only after they are dry (Jhala 1997, pp. 1348, 1351). Because the foraging dynamics of blackbuck antelope in Hawaii and possible habitat effects are unknown at this time, we do not currently consider this ungulate a threat to the four native plant species known from dry areas on Molokai: Gardenia remyi, Nothocestrum latifolium, Portulaca villosa, and Pseudognaphalium sandwicensium var. molokaiense, or to the yellow-faced bees Hylaeus anthracinus, H. facilis, H. hilaris, and H. longiceps (which rely on host plants that ungulates consume).
Other Introduced Vertebrates
Rats
Three species of introduced rats occur in the Hawaiian Islands. Studies of Polynesian rat (Rattus exulans) DNA suggest they first appeared in the islands along with emigrants from the Marquesas Islands (French Polynesia) in about 400 A.D., with a second introduction around 1100 A.D. (Ziegler 2002, p. 315). The black rat (R. rattus) and the Norway rat (R. norvegicus) arrived in the islands more recently, as stowaways on ships sometime in the late 19th century (Atkinson and Atkinson 2000, p. 25). The Polynesian rat and the black rat are primarily found in rural and remote areas of Hawaii, in dry to wet habitats, while the Norway rat is typically found in urban areas or agricultural fields (Tomich 1986, p. 41). The black rat is widely distributed throughout the main Hawaiian Islands and can be found in a range of ecosystems and as high as 9,000 ft (2,700 m), but it is most common at low- to mid-elevations (Tomich 1986, pp. 38-40). Sugihara (1997, p. 194) found both the black and Polynesian rats up to 7,000 ft (2,000 m) on Maui, but found the Norway rat only at lower elevations. Rats are omnivorous and eat almost any type of food (Nelson 2012, in litt.). Rats occur in 7 of the 11 ecosystems (coastal, lowland mesic, lowland wet, montane wet, montane mesic, montane dry, and wet cliff), and predation or herbivory by rats is a threat to 19 plants (Calamagrostis expansa (Maui and Hawaii Island; HBMP 2010), Cyanea kauaulaensis (Maui; PEPP 2012, pp. 71-72; PEPP 2014, p. 73), Dryopteris glabra var. pusilla (Kauai; Wood 2015, in litt.); Gardenia remyi (Kauai, Molokai, Maui, and Hawaii Island; Wood 2004, in litt.; HBMP 2010); Joinvillea ascendens ssp. ascendens (Kauai, Oahu, Molokai, Maui, and Hawaii Island; PEPP 2014, p. 109), Kadua haupuensis (Kauai; Lorence et al. 2010, p. 140), Labordia lorenciana (Kauai; Wood et al. 2007, p. 198), Ochrosia haleakalae (Maui; Oppenheimer 2015, in litt.), Phyllostegia helleri (Kauai; HBMP 2010), P. stachyoides (Molokai, Maui, and Hawaii Island; PEPP 2012, p. 133; PEPP 2013, pp. 158-159; PEPP 2014, pp. 140-142), Pritchardia bakeri (Oahu; Hodel 2012, pp. 42, 73), Ranunculus mauiensis (Kauai, Oahu, Molokai, Maui, and Hawaii Island; HBMP 2010), Sanicula sandwicensis (Maui and Hawaii Island; PEPP 2012, p. 148), Santalum involutum (Kauai; Harbaugh et al. 2010, pp. 835-836), Schiedea diffusa ssp. diffusa (Molokai, Maui; HBMP 2010), S. pubescens (Molokai, Lanai, and Maui; Wood 2005d, in litt.; HBMP 2010), Sicyos macrophyllus (Maui and Hawaii Island; Pratt 2008, in litt.), Solanum nelsonii (NWHI, Niihau, Molokai, Maui, and Hawaii Island; PEPP 2012, p. 156; PEPP 2014, p. 167), and Wikstroemia skottsbergiana (Kauai; Mitchell et al. 2005, in litt.)) and to the band-rumped storm-petrel (Lehua, Kauai, Maui, Kahoolawe, Lanai, and Hawaii Island; Pyle and Pyle 2009, in litt.).
Rat Impacts on Plants: Rats affect native plants by eating fleshy fruits, seeds, flowers, stems, leaves, roots, and other plant parts (Atkinson and Atkinson 2000, p. 23), and by stripping bark and cutting small branches (twig cutting) in search of moisture and nutrients, with detrimental impacts to plants' vigor and regeneration (Abe and Umeno 2011, pp. 27-39; Nelson 2012, pp. 1-4, 8-9). Studies in New Zealand have demonstrated that differential regeneration as a consequence of rat predation alters species composition of forested areas (Cuddihy and Stone 1990, pp. 68-69). Rats have caused declines or even the total elimination of island plant species (Campbell and Atkinson 1999 in Atkinson and Atkinson 2000, p. 24). In the Hawaiian Islands, rats may consume as much at 90 percent of the seeds produced by some native plants, and in some cases prevent regeneration of forest species completely (Cuddihy and Stone 1990, pp. 68-69). Hawaiian plants with fleshy fruit, such as Cyanea and Pritchardia, are particularly susceptible to rat predation (Cuddihy and Stone 1990, pp. 67-69). Predation of seeds by rats poses a serious and ongoing threat to all the Hawaiian Pritchardia palms, including P. bakeri, because rats are able to consume every seed in a fruiting stalk, preventing successful reproduction (Hodel 2012, pp. 42, 73). Fossil pollen records indicate that Pritchardia palms were once among the dominant species of coastal, lowland, and interior forests of Hawaii (Burney et al. 2001, pp. 630-631; Chapin et al. 2007, p. 21); today, complete coverage by all age classes of Pritchardia occurs only on small islets currently unoccupied by rats (Athens 2009, p. 1498). Because rats occur in seven of the ecosystems in which these species occur, the results from these studies, in addition to direct observations by field biologists, suggest that predation by rats can directly damage or destroy native plants.
Rat Impacts on the Band-Rumped Storm-Petrel: Introduced predators are the most serious threat facing the band-rumped storm-petrel. Rats occur on all the main Hawaiian Islands, and populations are also high on Lehua; however, attempts to control rats on Lehua are ongoing (Parkes and Fisher 2011, 48 pp.). Ground-, crevice-, and burrow-nesting seabirds, as well as their eggs and young, are highly susceptible to predation by rats; storm-petrels are the most susceptible of seabirds to rat predation and have experienced population-level impacts and extirpation as a result (Simons 1984, p. 1073; Jones et al. 2008, pp. 20-21). Evidence from the islands of Hawaii and Maui show that the Hawaiian petrel, a much larger seabird that nests in some of the same areas as the band-rumped storm-petrel, suffers huge losses to introduced predators (Johnston 1992, in litt.; Hodges and Nagata 2001, pp. 308-310; Hu et al. 2001, p. 234). The effects of introduced predators on the breeding success of the band-rumped storm-petrel are probably similar to the documented effects on the breeding success of Hawaiian petrels because these birds are similarly vulnerable. Population modeling showed that consistent predation of Hawaiian petrels, where reproductive success was reduced to 35 percent and adult survival was 80 percent, could drive a population to extinction in 20 to 30 years (Simons 1984, pp. 1071-1073). Rat bones were collected from a band-rumped storm-petrel nest on a sheer cliff on Kauai, and two live rats were observed moving along small rock ledges in the same area (Wood et al. 2002, p. 8), demonstrating that even remote and otherwise inaccessible nest sites are not safe from these predators. Because rats are present in all three ecosystems in which the band-rumped storm-petrel occurs (coastal, dry cliff, and wet cliff), predation by rats likely results in decreases in the numbers and populations of the band-rumped storm-petrel. We do not anticipate a reduction of this threat in the near future.
Barn Owl Impacts on the Band-Rumped Storm-Petrel
Two species of owls, the native pueo (Asio flammeus sandwichensis) and the introduced barn owl (Tyto alba), are known to prey on native Hawaiian birds. For example, between 1996 and 1998, 10 percent of nest failures of the puaiohi (small Kauai thrush, Myadestes palmeri), an endangered forest bird, on Kauai were attributed to owls (Snetsinger et al. 1994, p. 47; Snetsinger et al. 2005, pp. 72, 79). The band-rumped storm petrel only comes to land after dark, and likely avoids predation by the pueo, which hunts in daylight (Hawaii DOFAW 2005). The nonnative barn owl, however, is a nocturnal hunter and may prey on the storm-petrel. Barn owls were introduced to Kauai, Oahu, Molokai, and Hawaii Island between 1958 and 1963, to control rats and mice in sugar cane plantations, and now they occur on all of the main islands (USFWS 2013, p. 9). Barn owls are well-known predators of storm-petrels and other seabirds on islands (LeCorre and Jouventin 1997, p. 215; Velarde et al. 2007, p. 286; Guerra et al. 2014, p. 182; Ringler et al. 2015, p. 79). Direct impacts of barn owls on band-rumped storm-petrels in Hawaii are not well documented, but evidence and numerous anecdotal reports exist of barn owls preying on seabirds in the main Hawaiian islands, including the threatened Newell's shearwater and endangered Hawaiian petrel, and including on Kauai and Lehua, where band-rumped storm-petrels are known to nest (summarized in USFWS 2013, pp. 11-12). Because barn owls occur throughout the range of the band-rumped storm-petrel in Hawaii, they are likely to be predators of these seabirds.
Cat Impacts on the Band-Rumped Storm-Petrel
Cats (Felis catus) were introduced to Hawaii in the early 1800s, and are present on all the main Hawaiian Islands (Tomich 1986, p. 101). Cats are notorious for their predation on birds (Tomich 1986, p. 102). Native mammalian carnivores are absent from oceanic islands because of their low dispersal ability, but once introduced, are significant predators on seabird colonies and terrestrial birds that have no innate defenses against predation by these animals (Scott et al. 1986, p. 363; Ainley et al. 1997, p. 24; Ziegler 2002, p. 243; Hess and Banko 2006, in litt.; Nogales et al. 2013, p. 804). Cats may have contributed to the extinction of the Hawaiian rail (Porzana sandwichensis) (Stone 1985 in Stone and Scott 1985, p. 266). Although cats are more common at lower elevations, there are populations in areas completely isolated from human presence, including montane forests and alpine areas of Maui and Hawaii Island (Lindsey et al. in Pratt et al. 2009, p. 277; Scott et al. 1986, p. 363). Examination of the stomach contents of feral cats at Hakalau Forest NWR (Hawaii Island) found native and introduced birds to be the most common prey item (Banko et al. 2004, p. 162). Cats are believed to prey on roosting or incubating adult band-rumped storm-petrels and young, as evidenced by carcasses found in Hawaii Volcanoes National Park depredated by cats (Hu, pers. comm. in Slotterback 2002, in litt.; Hess et al. 2008, pp. 11, 14). Predation by cats is well known for the endangered Hawaiian petrel, which has some accessible and well-studied nesting areas; this species shares life-history and evolutionary traits with the band-rumped storm-petrel that make both vulnerable to nonnative mammalian predators. We expect the band-rumped storm-petrel to experience impacts of cat predation similar to those documented in the Hawaiian petrel. On Mauna Loa (Hawaii Island), feral cats were major predators of Hawaiian petrels (Hu et al. 2001, p. 234), and on Haleakala (Maui), almost half of the known mortalities of Hawaiian petrels between 1964 and 1996 were attributed to cats (Natividad Hodges and Nagata 2001, p. 312; Hu et al. 2001, p. 234). Population modeling of the Hawaiian petrel indicated that the petrel population would be unable to withstand any level of predation for long, and even with seemingly low levels of predation, the petrel population would be reduced by half in fewer than 30 years (Simons 1984, p. 1073). The band-rumped storm petrel is smaller in size than the petrel, but also nests in burrows and rock-crevices, lacks co-evolved predator avoidance behavior, and has a lengthy incubation and fledgling period, making this species highly vulnerable to predation by introduced mammals. Because feral cats occur in all four ecosystems in which the band-rumped storm petrel occurs, they are likely to be significant predators of these birds.
Mongoose Impacts on the Band-Rumped Storm-Petrel
The small Indian mongoose (Herpestes auropunctatus) was introduced to Hawaii in 1883, to control rodents in sugar cane plantations (Tomich 1986, pp. 95-96). This species quickly became widespread on Oahu, Molokai, Maui, and Hawaii Island, from sea level to elevations as high as 7,000 ft (2,130 m) (Tomich 1986, pp. 93-94). Mongooses have been sighted, and two captured, on Kauai, but it is still uncertain if the species is established there or how large populations might be (Kauai Invasive Species Committee 2013, in litt.; The Garden Island 2012, in litt.; Hess et al. in Pratt et al. 2009, p. 429). Mongooses are omnivorous, are known to prey on Hawaiian birds and their eggs, and are considered a likely factor in the decline of the endangered Hawaiian goose (nene, Branta sandvicensis) (Tomich 1986, p. 97). They are known or suspected predators on other Hawaiian birds, including the Hawaiian crow (alala, Corvus hawaiiensis), Hawaiian duck (koloa, Anas wyvilliana), Hawaiian coot (alae keokeo, Fulica alai), Hawaiian stilt (aeo, Himantopus mexicanus knudseni), Hawaiian gallinule (ula, Gallinula chloropus sandvicensis), Hawaiian petrel, and Newell's shearwater. Bird extinctions in other areas are attributed to mongooses, such as the loss of the barred-wing rail (Nesoclopeus poecilopterus) in Fiji, and the Jamaica petrel (Pterodroma caribbaea) (Hays and Conant 2007, p. 6). Birds extirpated from islands occupied by mongooses retain their populations on islands known to be mongoose-free (Hays and Conant 2007, p. 7). In Hawaii, mongooses occur in habitat types where they are not found within their natural range, and they have no predators and few communicable diseases or parasites. Because mongooses occur in all four ecosystems in which the band-rumped storm petrel occurs, they are likely to be significant predators of the band-rumped storm-petrel.
Nonnative Fish Impacts on the Orangeblack Hawaiian Damselfly
Predation by nonnative fishes is a threat to the orangeblack Hawaiian damselfly. Similar to the aquatic insects, Hawaii has a low diversity of freshwater fishes, with only five native species in two families (gobies (Gobiidae) and sleepers (Eleotridae)) that occur on all the main islands (Devick 1991, p. 196). Information on these five species indicates that the Hawaiian damselflies probably experienced limited natural predation pressure from these native fishes (Kido 1997, p. 493; Englund 1999, p. 236). Conversely, fish predation has been an important factor in the evolution of behavior in damselfly naiads in continental systems (Johnson 1991, p. 13). Some species of damselflies, including the native Hawaiian species, are not adapted to coexist with some fish species, and are found only in bodies of water without fish (Henrikson 1988, pp. 179-180; McPeek 1990a, pp. 92-93). The naiads of these species tend to occupy more exposed positions and engage in conspicuous foraging behavior that makes them susceptible to predation by fishes (Macan 1977, p. 47; McPeek 1990b, p. 1722). The introduction of nonnative fishes has been implicated in the extirpation of a species related to the orangeblack Hawaiian damselfly, the endangered Pacific Hawaiian damselfly (Megalagrion pacificum), from Oahu, Kauai, and Lanai, and from many streams on the remaining islands where it occurs (Moore and Gagne 1982, pp. 1-4). More than 70 species of fish have been introduced into Hawaiian freshwater habitats (Devick 1991, p. 189; Englund and Eldredge in Staples and Cowie 2001, p. 32; Englund 2004, in litt., p.27). The impact of fish introductions prior to 1900 cannot be assessed because this predates the initial collection of damselflies in Hawaii (Perkins 1913, p. clxxvi). In 1905, two species, the mosquito fish (Gambusia affinis) and the sailfin molly (Poecilia latipinna), were introduced for biological control of mosquitoes (Van Dine 1907, pp. 6-9). In 1922, three additional species were established for mosquito control, the green swordtail (Xiphophorus helleri), the moonfish (Xiphophorus maculatus), and the guppy (Poecilia reticulata). By 1935, the orangeblack Hawaiian damselfly was found only in waters without introduced fishes (Williams 1936, p. 289; Zimmerman 1948b, p. 341; Polhemus 1993b, p. 591; Englund 1998, p. 235). Beginning about 1980, a large number of new fish introductions began in Hawaii, originating primarily from the aquarium fish trade (Devick 1991, p. 189). This recent wave of fish introductions on Oahu corresponded with the drastic decline and range reduction of other Hawaiian damselfly species: The endangered oceanic Hawaiian damselfly (Megalagrion oceanicum), the endangered crimson Hawaiian damselfly (M. leptodemas), and the endangered blackline Hawaiian damselfly (M. nigrohamatum nigrolineatum). Currently, these damselflies are found only in drainages or higher parts of stream systems where nonnative fish are not yet established (Englund and Polhemus 1994, pp. 8-9; Englund 2004, in litt., p. 27). In summary, Hawaiian damselflies evolved with few, if any, predatory fishes and the lack of defensive behavior makes the orangeblack Hawaiian damselfly particularly vulnerable to, and are threatened by, predation by nonnative fish.
Nonnative Fish Impacts on the Anchialine Pool Shrimp
In Hawaii, the introduction of nonnative fishes into anchialine pools and the ensuing predation by nonnative fishes is considered the greatest threat to native shrimp within anchialine pool systems (Bailey-Brock and Brock 1993, p. 354). These impacts are discussed further under Factor E. Other Natural or Manmade Factors Affecting Their Continued Existence, below.
Bullfrog Impacts on the Orangeblack Hawaiian Damselfly
Native to the eastern United States and the Great Plains region, the bullfrog (Rana catesbeiana, Lithobates catesbeiana), was first introduced to Hawaii in 1899, to help control insects, and has become established on all the main Hawaiian Islands (Bryan 1931, pp. 62-63; Bury and Whelan 1985, p. 1; Lever 2003, p. 203). The bullfrog is flexible in both habitat and food requirements (McKeown 1996, pp. 24-27; Bury and Whelan 1984, pp. 3-7; Lever 2003, pp. 203-204), and can utilize any water source within a temperature range of 60 to 75 degrees Fahrenheit ( [degrees] F) (16 to 24 degrees Celsius ( [degrees] C)) (DesertUSA 2008). Englund et al. (2007, pp. 215, 219) found a strong correlation between the presence of bullfrogs and the absence of Hawaiian damselflies in their study of streams on all the main Hawaiian Islands. Because bullfrogs are omnivorous feeders and occur in the same habitat as the orangeblack Hawaiian damselfly, we consider predation by bullfrogs a threat to the orangeblack Hawaiian damselfly.
Introduced Invertebrates
Slugs
Herbivory by nonnative slugs is a threat to 10 of the 39 plant species (Cyanea kauaulaensis (Maui); Deparia kaalaana (Maui), Dryopteris glabra var. pusilla (Kauai), Hypolepis hawaiiensis var. mauiensis (Maui), Ochrosia haleakalae (Maui, Hawaii Island), Phyllostegia brevidens (Maui), P. stachyoides (Molokai, Maui), Ranunculus mauiensis (Kauai, Maui), Schiedea diffusa ssp. diffusa (Maui), and S. pubescens (Molokai, Maui)) through mechanical damage, destruction of plant parts, and mortality (see Table 2) (Joe 2006, p. 10; HBMP 2010; PEPP 2011, pp. 149, 170; PEPP 2012, pp. 71-72, 117-118, 133, 144-145, 153; PEPP 2013, pp. 54, 67, 91, 125-126, 158-159, 177-178, 185; Oppenheimer and Bustamente 2014, p. 106; PEPP 2014, pp. 73, 112-114, 136, 141-142, 154-156, 159, 162-163). Slugs are known to damage individuals of Cyanea and Cyrtandra species in the wild (Wood 2001, in litt.; Sailer and Kier 2002, in litt.; PEPP 2007, p. 38; PEPP 2008, pp. 23, 29, 52-53, 57). Information in the U.S. Army's 2005 "Status Report for the Makua Implementation Plan" indicates that herbivory by slugs can be a threat to all species of Cyanea, and can result in up to 80 percent seedling mortality (U.S. Army Garrison 2005, p. 3-51). Slug damage has also been reported on other Hawaiian plants including Argyroxiphium grayanum (greensword), Alsinidendron sp., Hibiscus sp., Schiedea kaalae (maolioli), Solanum sandwicense (popolo aiakeakua), and Urera sp. (Gagne 1983, pp. 190-191; Sailer 2006, pers. comm. in Joe 2006, pp. 28-34). Joe and Daehler (2008, p. 252) found that native Hawaiian plants are more vulnerable to slug damage than nonnative plants. In particular, they found that individuals of the endangered plants Cyanea superba and Schiedea obovata had 50 percent higher mortality when exposed to slugs as compared to individuals that were within exclosures without slugs. Because slugs are reported in five ecosystems (lowland mesic, lowland wet, montane wet, montane mesic, and wet cliff) on all the main Hawaiian Islands, the data from the studies cited above, in addition to direct observations by field biologists, indicate that slugs can directly damage or destroy native plants.
Black Twig Borers
The black twig borer (Xylosandrus compactus) is known to infest a wide variety of common plant taxa, including rare native plant species (Davis 1970, p. 39; Extension Entomology and US-CTAHR Integrated Pest Management Program 2006, p. 1). This insect pest burrows into branches, introduces a pathogenic fungus as food for its larvae, and lays its eggs (Davis 1970, p. 39). Twigs, branches, and entire plants can be damaged or killed from an infestation (Extension Entomology and UH-CTAHR Integrated Pest Management Program 2006, in litt.). On the Hawaiian Islands, the black twig borer has many hosts, disperses easily, and is probably present at most elevations up to 2,500 ft (762 m) (Howarth 1985, pp. 152-153). The black twig borer is reported as a threat to Labordia lorenciana and Nothocestrum latifolium (Ching-Harbin 2015, in litt.; Kishida 2015, in litt.).
Backswimmers
Backswimmers are aquatic true bugs (Heteroptera) in the family Notonectidae, so called because they swim upside down. Backswimmers are voracious predators and frequently feed on prey much larger than themselves, such as tadpoles, small fish, and other aquatic invertebrates including damselfly naiads (Borror et al. 1989, p. 296; Zalom 1978, p. 617). Backswimmers (several species) were introduced in recent times. Buenoa pallipes (NCN) has been recorded from Hawaii Island, Oahu, Maui, and Kauai (Zimmerman 1948, pp. 232-233; Larsen 1996, p. 40). This species is found in streams and can be abundant in lowland ponds and reservoirs. It feeds on any suitably sized insect, including damselfly naiads (Zalom 1978, p. 617). Two additional species of backswimmers have become established in Hawaii, Anisops kuroiwae (NCN) on Maui and Lanai, and Notonecta indica (NCN) on Hawaii Island, Oahu, and Maui (Larsen 1996, pp. 39-40). Predation by backswimmers is a threat to the orangeblack Hawaiian damselfly (Haines 2015, in litt.).
Ants
At least 47 species of ants are known to be established in the Hawaiian Islands (Hawaii Ants 2008, 11 pp.). No native ant species occur in Hawaii, and the native yellow-faced bee species in Hawaii evolved in the absence of predation pressure from ants. Ants are known to prey upon Hawaiian yellow-faced bee (Hylaeus) species, with observations of drastic reductions in yellow-faced bee populations in ant-infested areas (Medeiros et al. 1986, pp. 45-46; Reimer 1994, p. 17; Stone and Loope 1987, p. 251; Cole et al. 1992, pp. 1313, 1317, 1320). The presence of ants in nearly all of the low-elevation habitat sites currently and historically occupied by yellow-faced bee species may preclude these species' recovery in some of these areas (Reimer 1994, pp. 17-18; Daly and Magnacca 2003, pp. 9-10). Although the primary impact of ants on Hawaii's native invertebrate fauna is via predation, they also compete for nectar (Reimer 1994, p. 17; Howarth 1985, p. 155; Hopper et al. 1996, p. 9; Holway et al. 2002, pp. 188, 209; Daly and Magnacca 2003, p. 9; Lach 2008, p. 155) and nest sites (Krushelnycky et al. 2005, pp. 6-7). Some ant species may affect yellow-faced bee species indirectly as well, by consuming seeds of native host plants, thereby reducing the plants' recruitment and fecundity (Bond and Slingsby 1984, p. 1031). The threat of ant predation on the yellow-faced bees is amplified by the fact that most ant species have winged reproductive adults and can quickly expand their range by establishing new colonies in suitable habitat (Staples and Cowie 2001, p. 55). In addition, these attributes allow some ants to destroy otherwise geographically isolated populations of native arthropods (Nafus 1993, pp. 19, 22-23). Several studies suggest a serious ecosystem-level effect of invasive ants on plant pollination (Krushelnycky et al. 2005, p. 9; Lach 2008, p. 155). Where ranges overlap, ants compete with native pollinators such as yellow-faced bees and preclude them from pollinating native plants (Howarth 1985, p. 157), potentially leading to a decrease in availability of the bees' native plant food sources. Lach (2008, p. 155) found that yellow-faced bees that regularly consume pollen from flowers of Metrosideros polymorpha (ohia) were entirely absent from trees with flowers visited by the ant Pheidole megacephala.
The four most aggressive ant species in Hawaii are the big-headed ant (Pheidole megacephala), the yellow crazy ant (Anoplolepis gracilipes), the tropical fire ant (Solenopsis geminata), and S. papuana (NCN). The big-headed ant is native to central Africa and was first reported in Hawaii in 1879 (Krushelnycky et al. 2005, p. 24). This species occurs from coastal to mesic habitat up to 4,000 ft (1,220 m) in elevation. With few exceptions, native insects have been eliminated in habitats where the big-headed ant is present (Perkins 1913, p. xxxix; Gagne 1979, p. 81; Gillespie and Reimer 1993, p. 22). Native habitat of the yellow crazy ant is not known, but it is speculated the species originated in West Africa (MacGown 2015, in litt.). It occurs in low to mid elevations (less than 2,000 ft (600 m)) in rocky areas of moderate annual rainfall (less than 100 in (250 cm)) (Reimer et al. 1990, p. 42). Although surveys have not been conducted to ascertain this species' presence in each of the known habitats occupied by the seven yellow-faced bees, we know that the yellow crazy ant occurs adjacent to some of the identified populations sites based upon observations of their expanding range and their preference for coastal and dry forest habitat (as indicated where the species is most commonly collected) (Antweb 2015, in litt.; Magnacca and King 2013, pp. 13-14). Direct observations indicate that Hawaiian arthropods are susceptible to predation by this ant species. Gillespie and Reimer (1993, pp. 21, 26) and Hardy (1979, pp. 37-38) documented the complete elimination of native spiders from mesic and dry forests after they were invaded by the big-headed ant and the yellow crazy ant. Lester and Tavite (2004, p. 291) found that the yellow crazy ant in the atolls of Tokelau (Central Polynesia) form very high densities in a relatively short period of time with locally serious consequences for invertebrate diversity. Densities of 3,600 individuals collected in pitfall traps within a 24-hour period were observed, as well as predation on invertebrates ranging from crabs to other ant species. Results from these and other studies (Reimer et al. 1990, p. 47) indicate that yellow crazy ants have the potential as predators to profoundly affect endemic insect fauna in areas they occupy. We believe that the yellow crazy ant is a threat to populations of the Hawaiian yellow-faced bees in areas within their range.
Solenopsis papuana, native to the Pacific region but not to Hawaii, is the only abundant, aggressive ant that has invaded intact mesic and wet forest, as well as coastal and lowland dry ecosystems. First detected in 1967, this species occurs from sea level to over 3,600 ft (1,100 m) on all of the main Hawaiian Islands, and is still expanding its range (Reimer et al. 1990, p. 42; Reimer 1993, p. 14). Studies have been conducted that suggest a negative effect of this ant species on indigenous invertebrates (Gillespie and Reimer 1993, p. 21). Although surveys have not been conducted to ascertain the presence of S. papuana in each of the known ecosystems occupied by the seven yellow-faced bees, because of the expanding range of this introduced ant species, and its widespread occurrence in coastal to wet habitats, it is a possible threat to all known populations of the seven yellow-faced bees.
Solenopsis geminata is also considered a significant threat to native invertebrates in Hawaii (Wong and Wong 1988, p. 171). Found in drier areas of all the main Hawaiian Islands, it displaced Pheidole megacephala as the dominant ant in some localities more than 20 years ago (Wong and Wong 1988, p. 175). Known to be a voracious predator, this ant species was documented to significantly increase native fruit fly mortality in field studies in Hawaii (Wong and Wong 1988, p. 175). Solenopsis geminata is included among the eight species ranked as having the highest potential risk to New Zealand species in a detailed pest risk assessment for the country (GISD 2011, in litt.), and is included as one of the five ant species listed among the "100 of the World's Worst Invaders" (Manaaki Landcare Research 2015, in litt.). In addition to predation, S. geminata workers tend honeydew-producing members of the Homoptera suborder, especially mealybugs, which can affect plants directly and indirectly through the spread of disease (Manaaki Landcare Research 2015, in litt.). Although surveys have not been conducted to ascertain the presence of S. geminata in each of the known seven yellow-faced bees' habitat sites, because of its expanding range and widespread presence, S. geminata is a threat to all known populations of the seven yellow-faced bees.
Although we have no direct information that correlates the decrease in populations of the seven yellow-faced bees in this final rule due to the establishment of nonnative ants, predation of and competition with other yellow-faced bee species by ants has been documented, resulting in clear reductions in or absence of populations (Magnacca and King 2013, p. 24). We expect similar predation impacts to the seven yellow-faced bees to continue as a result of the widespread presence of ants throughout the Hawaiian Islands, their highly efficient and non-specific predatory behavior, and their ability to quickly disperse and establish new colonies. Therefore, we conclude that predation by nonnative ants represents a serious threat to the continued existence of the seven yellow-faced bees, now and into the future.
Wasps
Predation by the western yellow jacket wasp (Vespula pensylvanica) is a serious and ongoing threat to the seven yellow-faced bees (Gambino et al. 1987, p. 170; Wilson et al. 2009, pp. 1-5). The western yellow jacket is a social wasp species native to mainland North America. It was first reported on Oahu in the 1930s (Sherley 2000, p. 121), and an aggressive race became established in 1977 (Gambino et al. 1987, p. 170). In temperate climates, the western yellow jacket wasp has an annual life cycle, but in Hawaii's tropical climate, colonies of this species persist year round, allowing growth of large populations (Gambino et al. 1987, p. 170) and thus a greater impact on prey populations. Most colonies occur between 2,000 and 3,500 ft (600 and 1050 m) in elevation (Gambino et al. 1990, p. 1088), although they can also occur at sea level. The western yellow jacket wasp is known to be an aggressive, generalist predator and has been documented preying upon Hawaiian yellow-faced bee species (Gambino et al. 1987, p. 170; Wilson et al. 2009, p. 2). It has been suggested that the western yellow jacket wasp may compete for nectar with native Hawaiian invertebrates, but we have no information to suggest this represents a threat to the seven yellow-faced bees. Predation by the western yellow jacket wasp is a significant threat to the seven yellow-faced bee species because of the wasps' presence in habitat combined with the small number of occurrences and small population sizes of the Hawaiian yellow-faced bees.
Summary of Factor C
We are unaware of any information that indicates that disease is a threat to the 39 plant species. We are also unaware of any information that indicates that disease is a threat to the band-rumped storm-petrel, the orangeblack Hawaiian damselfly, or the anchialine pool shrimp, Procaris hawaiana. It has been suggested that transmission of disease from alien invertebrates by mutual flower visitation is a threat to the seven yellow-faced bees (Hylaeus spp.), but we currently have no evidence that this is occurring.
We consider predation and herbivory by one or more of the nonnative animal species (pigs, goats, axis deer, black-tailed deer, sheep, mouflon, cattle, rats, barn owls, cats, mongooses, fish, slugs, ants, black twig borers, and wasps) to pose an ongoing threat to 35 of the 39 plant species and to all 10 animal species throughout their ranges for the following reasons:
(1) Observations and reports have documented that pigs, goats, axis deer, black-tailed deer, sheep, mouflon, and cattle browse 27 of the 39 plant species, in addition to other studies demonstrating the negative impacts of ungulate browsing on native plant species of the islands. If the numbers and range of blackbuck antelope increase, their browsing will be a threat to native plants that occur on Molokai, including host plants for the yellow-faced bees.
(2) Nonnative rats and slugs (either singly or combined) cause mechanical damage to plants and destruction of plant parts (branches, flowers, fruits, and seeds), and are considered a threat to 22 of the 39 plant species.
(3) Rats also prey upon adults, juveniles, and eggs of the band-rumped storm-petrel, and are linked with the dramatic decline of many closely related bird species. Because rats are found in all of the ecosystems in which the band-rumped storm-petrel occurs, we consider predation by rats to be a serious and ongoing threat.
(4) Barn owls and cats have established populations in the wild on all the main islands, and mongooses have established populations on all the main islands except for Kauai. All of these nonnative animals are known to prey on ground- and burrow-nesting seabirds. Predation by these animals is a serious and ongoing threat to the band-rumped storm-petrel.
(5) The absence of Hawaiian damselflies (including the orangeblack Hawaiian damselfly) from ponds, pools, and other aquatic habitat on the main Hawaiian Islands is strongly correlated with the presence of predatory nonnative fish; numerous observations and reports suggest nonnative predatory fishes eliminate native damselflies from these habitats. Accordingly, predation by nonnative fishes is a serious and ongoing threat to the orangeblack Hawaiian damselfly. Predation by bullfrogs, backswimmers, and Jackson's chameleons, and competition with caddisflies are threats to the orangeblack Hawaiian damselfly.
(6) Once introduced to anchialine pools, nonnative fish, through predation and competition for food sources, directly affect anchialine pool shrimp, including Procaris hawaiana, and also disrupt anchialine pool ecology.
(7) Damage and destruction by the black twig borer is a threat to two plant species, Labordia lorenciana and Nothocestrum latifolium.
(8) Predation by nonnative ants and wasps poses a threat to all seven yellow-faced bees.
These threats are serious and ongoing, act in concert with other threats to the species, and are expected to continue or increase in magnitude and intensity into the future without effective management actions to control or eradicate them. The effects of the combined threats suggest the need for immediate implementation of recovery and conservation methods.
Factor D. The Inadequacy of Existing Regulatory Mechanisms
Overview
Currently, no existing Federal, State, or local laws, treaties, or regulations specifically conserve or protect 48 of the 49 species (except the band-rumped storm-petrel by the Migratory Bird Treaty Act (MBTA; 16 U.S.C. 703-712)), or adequately address the threats to any of the 49 species (see Table 2). There are a few small programs and organizations that conduct vegetation monitoring and nonnative species and predator control, but these activities are nonregulatory, and neither continuation of these conservation efforts nor funding for them is guaranteed.
Federal laws pertaining to the 49 species addressed here include Executive Order (E.O.) 13112, the MBTA, the Lacey Act (16 U.S.C. 3371-3378; 18 U.S.C. 42-43), the Federal Noxious Weed List (7 CFR 360.200), and the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES). The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) inspects propagative and restricted plant materials and animals, and implements "Special Local Needs" rules for pesticide use, but only on a species-by-species basis. The Department of Homeland Security-Customs and Border Protection (CBP) is responsible for inspecting commercial, private, and military vessels and aircraft, and related cargo and passengers arriving from foreign locations. However, CBP focuses on quarantine issues involving non-propagative plant materials; wooden packing materials, timber, and products; internationally regulated commercial species under CITES; and federally listed noxious plants, seeds, soils, and pests of concern to the continental United States, such as pests to mainland U.S. forests and agriculture.
Hawaii State law regarding natural resource protections include those under Hawaii revised statutes (HRS): Plant and nondomestic animal quarantine and microorganism import (HRS 11-3-150A) and noxious weed control (HRS 11-3-152); flood control (HRS 12-2), water and land development (HRS 12-174), and State water code (HRS 12-2-174D); wildlife (general wildlife, hunting, game birds, game mammals, and wild birds and other wildlife) (HRS 12-4-183D); aquatic resources and wildlife-alien aquatic organisms (HRS 12-5-187A); general and miscellaneous, invasive species council (HRS 12-6-194); conservation of aquatic life, wildlife, and land plants (HRS 12-6-195D); and Natural Area Reserves (NARs) (HRS 12-6-195). These laws are interpreted and implemented under Hawaii administrative rules (HAR). Applicable HARs include: Noxious weed rules (HAR 4-6-68); plant and nondomestic animal quarantine, microorganism import rules (HAR 4-6-ch 71A, 71C), and plant intrastate rules (HAR4-6-72); rules regulating game mammal hunting (HAR 13-5-2-ch 123; indigenous wildlife, endangered and threatened wildlife, and introduced wild birds (HAR 13-5-2-ch 124); protection of instream uses of water (HAR 13-7-ch 169), and NARs system (HAR 13-9-ch 208-210).
Private and local programs that provide protections, and that help to implement Federal and State environmental regulations, laws, and rules for one or more of the 49 species, include the Hawaii Invasive Species Committee (HISC), the Coordinating Group on Alien Pest Species (CGAPS), and the Hawaii Association of Watershed Partnerships (HAWP). In addition, the Plant Extinction Protection Program (PEPP) was created to protect Hawaii's rare plant species in need of immediate conservation efforts, by monitoring, propagating, outplanting, and providing some protection from threats.
We discuss Federal and State regulatory mechanisms, along with agencies and groups authorized to implement them, and the coordination between them, below.
Federal Regulatory Mechanisms
On February 3, 1999, Executive Order (E.O.) 13112 was signed establishing the National Invasive Species Council (NISC). This E.O. requires that a Council of Departments dealing with invasive species be created to prevent the introduction of invasive species; provide for their control; and minimize the economic, ecological, and human health impacts that invasive species cause. Invasive species include aquatic plant and animal species, terrestrial plants and animal species, and plant and animal pathogens. This E.O. was reviewed in 2005 (NISC 2005). NISC uses a cooperative approach to enhance the Federal Government's response to the threat of invasive species, and emphasizes prevention, early detection and rapid response, and sharing of information. See our discussion below concerning the Hawaii Invasive Species Committee (HISC) regarding the effectiveness of this law.
The MBTA is the domestic law that implements the United States' commitment to four international conventions (with Canada, Japan, Mexico, and Russia) for the protection of shared migratory bird resources. The MBTA regulates most aspects of take, possession, transport, sale, purchase, barter, export, and import of migratory birds and prohibits the killing, capturing, and collecting of individuals, eggs, and nests, unless such action is authorized by permit. While the MBTA does prohibit actions that directly kill a covered species, unlike the Endangered Species Act (Act), it does not prohibit habitat modification that indirectly kills or injures a covered species, affords no habitat protection when the birds are not present, and provides only very limited mechanisms for addressing chronic threats to covered species, such as nonnative predators.
The Lacey Act authorizes the Secretary of the Interior to list as "injurious" any wildlife deemed to be harmful to human beings, to the interests of agriculture, horticulture, forestry, or to wildlife or the wildlife resources of the United States. The Service inspects arriving wildlife products, and enforces the injurious wildlife provisions of the Lacey Act. Among other provisions, the Lacey Act prohibits importation of injurious mammals, birds, fish, amphibians and reptiles listed in the Lacey Act or which are declared by the Secretary of the Interior through regulation to be injurious to human beings, agriculture, horticulture, forestry or wildlife; however, these prohibitions do not apply to plants and organisms other than those listed or designated by regulations as injurious wildlife (USFWS 2016, in litt.). The current list of animals considered as "injurious wildlife" is provided at 50 CFR part 16. The list includes fruit bats, mongoose, European rabbits and hares, wild dogs, rats or mice, raccoon dogs, brushtail possum (the species introduced to New Zealand), starlings, house sparrows, mynas, dioch, Java sparrows, red whiskered bulbuls, walking catfish, mitten crabs, zebra mussels, fish in the snakehead family, four species of carp, salmonids, brown tree snakes, and pythons (USFWS 2012, 50 CFR part 16). The Lacey Act requires declarations of importation only for formal entries (i.e., commercial shipments), but not for informal entries (i.e., personal shipments) (USDA-APHIS 2015, in litt.). Additionally, a species may still be imported or transported across State lines while it is being considered for addition to the list of "injurious wildlife" (Fowler et al. 2007, pp. 357-358). Mongoose, rabbits, rats, mice, house sparrows, mynas, Java sparrows, and red whiskered bulbuls are already established in Hawaii, are difficult and costly to control, or are not controlled at all. None of the aquatic species on the injurious species list is present in Hawaii.
The continued spread of injurious species indicates the limited effectiveness of the Lacey Act in preventing introductions of such species to the State (Fowler et al. 2007, p. 357). As an example of continued introduction of nonnative species in Hawaii, opossums (Didelphis virginiana) have been found in shipping containers on Oahu in 2005, 2011, and most recently in 2015 (Star Advertiser 2015b, in litt). This species is not included on the Lacey Act's list of injurious wildlife. Opossums are omnivorous scavengers, consuming a wide variety of food items including insects, small vertebrates, bird eggs, slugs and snails, and fruits and berries (Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife 2015, in litt.; Clermont College 2015, in litt.). If opossums were to establish wild populations in Hawaii, their predation on ground-nesting seabirds, insects, and snails could negatively affect the band-rumped storm petrel, the orangeblack Hawaiian damselfly, one or more of the 39 plants, and endangered snail species.
The Department of Agriculture-Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service-Plant Protection and Quarantine (USDA-APHIS-PPQ) inspects propagative plant material, provides identification services for arriving plants and animals, conducts pest risk assessments, and other related matters, but focuses on pests of wide concern across the United States (HDOA 2009, in litt.). The USDA-APHIS-PPQ's Restricted Plants List restricts the import of a limited number of noxious weeds. If not specifically prohibited, current Federal regulations allow plants to be imported from international ports with some restrictions. The Federal Noxious Weed List (see 7 CFR 360.200; USDA 2012) includes more than 100 of the many globally known invasive plants, 21 of which are already established in Hawaii. Plants on the list do not require a weed risk assessment prior to importation from international ports.
A local organization (under the Institute of Pacific Islands Forestry-USFS), Pacific Island Ecosystems at Risk (PIER) has compiled a complete list of those plant species that are a threat to ecosystems in the Pacific Islands, and those that are potentially invasive and are present in the Pacific Region, along with a weed-risk assessment for most of them (http://www.hear.org/pier/, last updated May 15, 2013). There are over 1,000 plant species on the PIER list, and, in our proposed rule (80 FR 58820, September 30, 2015; see pp. 58869-58881), we discuss 114 of these invasive plants that currently have the greatest impacts on the 49 species. In addition, the USDA-APHIS-PPQ is in the process of finalizing rules to include a weed risk assessment for plants newly imported to Hawaii (and that may not yet appear on the PIER list).
Water extraction is a threat to the plant species (Cyclosorus boydiae), the orangeblack Hawaiian damselfly, and the anchialine pool shrimp Procaris hawaiana. The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (COE) has regulatory jurisdiction under section 404 of the Clean Water Act (33 U.S.C. 1251 et seq.) for activities that would result in a discharge of dredged or fill material into waters of the United States; however, in issuing permits for such activities, the COE does not typically establish minimal instream flow standards (IFS) as a matter of policy (U.S. Army 1985, RGL 85-6).
State Regulatory Mechanisms
The Hawaii Endangered Species law (HRS 195D) prohibits take, possession, sale, transport or commerce in designated species. This includes aquatic as well as terrestrial animal species, and terrestrial plants (not freshwater or marine plants). This State law also recognizes as endangered or threatened those species determined to be endangered or threatened pursuant to the Act. This Hawaii law states that a threatened species (under the Act) or an indigenous species may be determined to be an endangered species under State law. Protection of these species is under the authority of Hawaii's Department of Land and Natural Resources, and under administrative rule (HAR 13-5-2-Ch 124). Although this State law can address threats such as habitat modification, light attraction, and line collision through HCPs that address the effects of individual projects or programs, it does not address the pervasive threats to the 49 species posed by nonnative predators and feral ungulates.
The importation of nondomestic animals, including aquatic species and microorganisms, is regulated by a permit system (HAR 4-71) managed through the Hawaii Department of Agriculture (HDOA). In addition, transport of plants and plant parts between Hawaiian Islands is managed through the HDOA (HAR 4-6-72), but only for those species that have already been determined to be pest species. The objective of these administrative rules is to implement the requirements of HRS 11-3-150A. The list of nondomestic animals (HAR 4-71) is defined by providing a list of those animals considered domestic: dog, cat, horse, ass (burro or donkey), cattle and beefalo, sheep, goat, swine, pot-bellied pig, alpaca, llama, rabbit, chicken, turkeys, pigeons, ducks, geese, and their hybrids. Examples of regulated pests are listed at HAR 4-72, including nonnative insects, slugs, insects, plants, and plant viruses that can damage or harm commercial crops. The HDOA's Board of Agriculture maintains lists of nondomestic animals that are prohibited from entry, animals without entry restrictions, or those that require a permit for import and possession. The HDOA requires a permit to import animals, and conditionally approves entry for individual possession, businesses (e.g., pets and resale trade, retail sales, and food consumption), or institutions. However, habitat destruction and modification, and predation, by feral domestic animals (such as goat and cats, respectively) are two primary threats to the 49 species not addressed by the HDOA prohibitions and permitting process.
The State of Hawaii allows importation of most plant taxa, with limited exceptions, if shipped from domestic ports (HLRB 2002; USDA-APHIS-PPQ 2010; CGAPS 2009). Hawaii's plant import rules (HAR 4-70) regulate the importation of 13 plant taxa of economic interest, including pineapple, sugarcane, palms, and pines. Certain horticultural crops (e.g., orchids) may require import permits and have pre-entry requirements that include treatment or quarantine or both either prior to or following entry into the State.
Critical biosecurity gaps include inadequate staffing, facilities, and equipment for Federal and State inspectors devoted to invasive species interdiction (HLRB 2002; USDA-APHIS-PPQ 2010; CGAPS 2009). In recognition of these gaps, a State law has been passed that allows the HDOA to collect fees for quarantine inspection of freight entering Hawaii (Act 36 (2011) HRS 150A-5.3). Legislation enacted in 2011 (H.B. 1568) requires commercial harbors and airports to provide biosecurity and inspection facilities to facilitate the movement of cargo through ports. This bill is a significant step toward optimizing biosecurity capacity in the State, but only time will determine its effectiveness (Act 2011 (11)). We believe there is a need for all civilian and military port and airport operations and construction to make biosecurity concerns a core objective.
As an example, the threat of introduction of nonnative species is evidenced by the 2013 discovery of presence of the nonnative coconut rhinoceros beetle (CRB, Oryctes rhinoceros), which quickly spread from its known point of introduction across the island of Oahu in a few months (HISC 2014, in litt. + maps; HDOA 2014, in litt.). The CRB is considered one of the most damaging insects to coconut and African oil palm trees in southern and southeast Asia, as well as the western Pacific Islands, and could devastate populations of native and nonnative palm trees in Hawaii (Giblin-Davis 2001 in HISC 2014, in litt.). A rapid response team headed by HDOA (with USDA, University of Hawaii, U.S. Navy, and other partners) has set up pheromone traps island-wide, and capture and range delineation efforts are ongoing, along with funding for support services to control the CRB (HISC 2014, in litt.). However, existing regulatory mechanisms did not prevent the introduction of this pest species into Hawaii. These regulatory mechanisms, such as HAR 71A and HAR 71C (regarding release of nonnative species) and H.B. 1568 (pertaining to State law to enforce biosecurity measures), therefore, are inadequate to prevent introduction of nonnative species. Efforts to control the CRB continue, but whether those efforts will be effective is unknown at this time.
Hawaii's noxious weed law was enacted to prevent the introduction and transport of noxious weeds or their seeds or vegetative reproductive parts into any area that is reasonably free of those noxious weeds (HRS 11-3-152), and it states that the Hawaii Department of Agriculture shall take necessary measures to restrict the introduction and establishment of specific noxious weeds in such areas. Hawaii administrative rule (HAR 4-6-68) further defines the term "noxious weed" and the criteria for designation of plants as such and criteria for designation of a noxious weed "free area." The list of noxious weeds, compiled in 1992, consists of 79 plant species, 49 of which were not yet established in Hawaii. Since that time, 20 species on the list have become established in Hawaii: Bocconia frutescens (plume poppy), Cereus uruguayanus (spiny tree cactus), Chromolaena odorata (siamweed), Cortaderia jubata (Andean pampas grass), Cytisus scoparius (Scotch broom), Hyptis suaveolens (wild spikenard), Malachra alceifolia (malachra), Melastoma spp. (melastoma; two species now established, M. candidum and M. sanguineum), Miconia spp. (miconia; M. calvescens now on four islands), Passiflora pulchella (wingleaf passionfruit), Piper aduncum (spiked pepper), Prosopis juliflora (algarroba), Pueraria phaseoloides (tropical kudzu), Rubus sieboldii (Molucca raspberry), Senecio madagascariensis (fireweed), Solanum elaeagnifolium (silverleaf nightshade), Solanum robustum (shrubby nightshade), Solanum torvum (turkeyberry), and Spartium junceum (Spanish broom). Thus, despite State legislation and regulations addressing invasive and noxious species, their entry into the State continues.
The State manages the use of surface and ground water resources through the Commission on Water Resource Management (CWRM), as mandated by the State Water Code (HRS 174, HAR 13-168-196). The State considers all natural flowing surface water (streams, springs, seeps) as State property (HRS 174C), and the DLNR has management responsibility for the aquatic organisms in these waters (HRS Annotated 1988, Title 12 1992 Cumulative Supplement). In Hawaii, instream flow is regulated by establishing standards on a stream-by-stream basis. The standards currently in effect represent flow conditions in 1987 (status quo), the year the administrative rules (State Water Code) were adopted (HRS 174C-71, HAR title 13, ch 169-44-49). Because of the complexity of establishing instream flow standards (IFS) for 376 perennial streams, the Commission retains interim IFS at status quo levels as set in 1987 (CWRM 2009, in litt.; CRWM 2014, in litt). In the Waiahole Ditch Combined Contested Hearing on Oahu (1991-2006), the Hawaii Supreme Court determined that status quo interim IFS were not adequate, and required the Commission to reassess the IFS for Waiahole Ditch and other streams Statewide (Cast No. CCH-OA95-1; Maui Now.com, in litt.). The Commission has been gathering information to fulfill this requirement since 2006, but no IFS recommendations have been made to date (CWRM 2008, p. 3-153; CRWM 2014, in litt.).
In addition, in the Hawaii Stream Assessment Report (HDLNR 1990; prepared in coordination with the National Park Service (NPS)), the Commission identified high-quality rivers and streams (and portions thereof) that may be placed within a Wild and Scenic River System. This report ranked 70 out of 176 analyzed rivers and streams as outstanding high-quality habitat, and recommended that streams meeting certain criteria be protected from further development (HDLNR 1990, pp. xxi-xxiv). However, there is no mechanism within the State's Water Code to designate and set aside these streams, or to identify and protect stream habitat. Accordingly, damselfly populations (including the orangeblack Hawaiian damselfly) are at risk of continued loss of habitat.
Hawaii's DLNR Division of Aquatic Resources (DAR) is responsible for conserving, protecting, and enhancing the State's renewable resources of aquatic life and habitat (HDAR 2015, in litt.; DLNR-DAR 2003, p. 3-13). The release of live nonnative fish or other nonnative aquatic life into any waters of the State is prohibited (HRS 187A-6.5), and DAR has the authority to seize, confiscate, or destroy as a public nuisance any of these prohibited species (HRS 187A-2; HRS 187A-6.5). However, the DAR recognizes that nonnative species continue to enter the State and move between islands (DLNR-DAR 2003, p. 2-12).
There are no existing regulatory mechanisms that specifically protect Hawaii's anchialine pools (habitat for the anchialine pool shrimp Procaris hawaiana and the orangeblack Hawaiian damselfly); however 2 anchialine pools on Maui and 12 anchialine pool on Hawaii Island are located within State NARs. State NARs were created to preserve and protect samples of Hawaii's ecosystems and geological formations, and are monitored. Designation as a State NAR prohibits the removal of any native organism and the disturbance of pools (HAR 13-209-4). Though signs are posted at NARs to notify the public that anchialine pools are off-limits to bathers, off-road vehicle use around the pools, and other activities, the anchialine pools are in remote areas and the State does not have sufficient funding to effectively enforce those restrictions.
Nonnative ungulates pose threats of habitat destruction and modification and predation (herbivory) to 37 of the 39 plants species, and of habitat destruction and modification to 9 of the 10 animals in this rule (see Table 2). The State provides opportunities to the public to hunt game mammals (ungulates including feral pigs and goats, axis deer, black-tailed deer, and mouflon, sheep and mouflon-sheep hybrids) on 91 State-designated public hunting areas (within 45 units) on all the main Hawaiian Islands except Kahoolawe and Niihau (HAR-DLNR 2010, 13-123; HDLNR 2009b, pp. 25-30). On Niihau, public hunting opportunities are managed by a private business (Niihau Safaris Inc. 2015, in litt.). The State's management objectives for game mammals range from maximizing public hunting opportunities (i.e., "sustained yield") in some areas to removal by State staff or their designees from other areas (HAR-DLNR 2010, p. 12-123; HDLNR 2009b, pp. 25-30). Thirty of the 39 plant species, the band-rumped storm-petrel, the orangeblack Hawaiian damselfly, and three yellow-faced bees have populations in areas where habitat is used for game enhancement and game populations are maintained at levels for public hunting (Holmes and Joyce 2009, 4 pp.; HAR-DLNR 2010, p. 12-123; HBMP 2010). Public hunting areas are defined, but not fenced, and game mammals have unrestricted access to most areas across the landscape, regardless of underlying land-use designation. While fences are sometimes built to protect areas from game mammals, the current number and locations of fences are not adequate to prevent habitat destruction and modification for 46 of the 49 species. One additional State regulation (HRS 12-183D) was enacted recently to prevent intra-island transport of axis deer only. There are no other State regulations than those described above that address protection of the species and their habitat from feral ungulates.
Under statutory authorities provided by HRS title 12, subtitle 4, 183D Wildlife, the DLNR maintains HAR ch 124 (2014), which defines "injurious wildlife" as "any species or subspecies of animal except game birds and game mammals which is known to be harmful to agriculture, aquaculture, indigenous wildlife or plants, or constitute a nuisance or health hazard and is listed in the exhibit entitled Exhibit 5, Chapter 13-124, List of Species of Injurious Wildlife in Hawaii." Under HAR 13-124-3(d), "no person shall, or attempt to: (1) Release injurious wildlife into the wild; (2) Transport them to island or locations within the State where they are not already established and living in a wild state; and (3) Export any such species or the dead body or parts thereof, from the State. Permits for these actions may be considered on a case-by-case basis." This law was enacted after an incident in 2012 of interisland transport of axis deer (for hunting purposes) to Hawaii Island, which was without axis deer previously.
Local Mechanisms
Local biologists and botanists recognize the urgent need to address the importation of nonnative, invasive species, and are working to implement actions required; however, their funding is not guaranteed. We discuss the four primary groups below.
In 1995, the Coordinating Group on Alien Pest Species (CGAPS), a partnership of managers from Federal, State, County, and private agencies and organizations involved in invasive species work in Hawaii, was formed in an effort to coordinate policy and funding decisions, improve communication, increase collaboration, and promote public awareness (CGAPS 2009). This group facilitated the formation of the Hawaii Invasive Species Council (HISC), which was created by gubernatorial executive order in 2002, to coordinate local initiatives for the prevention of introduction and for control of invasive species by providing policy-level direction and planning for the State departments responsible for invasive species issues (CGAPS 2009). In 2003, the Governor signed into law Act 85, which conveys statutory authority to the HISC to continue to coordinate approaches among the various State and Federal agencies, and international and local initiatives, for the prevention and control of invasive species (HDLNR 2003, p. 3-15; HISC 2009, in litt.; HRS 194-2). Some of the recent priorities for the HISC include interagency efforts to control nonnative species such as the plants Miconia calvescens (miconia) and Cortaderia spp. (pampas grass), coqui frogs (Eleutherodactylus coqui), the CRB, and ants (HISC 2009, 2013, and 2015, in litt.; OISC 2015, in litt.; http://dlnr.hawaii.gov/hisc). Budget cuts beginning in 2009 restricted State funding support of HISC, resulting in a serious setback of conservation efforts (HISC 2009; HISC 2015).
The Hawaii Association of Watershed Partnerships comprises 11 separate partnerships on six Hawaiian Islands. These partnerships are voluntary alliances of public and private landowners, "committed to the common value of protecting forested watersheds for water recharge, conservation, and other ecosystem services through collaborative management" (http://hawp.org/partnerships). Funding for the partnerships is provided through a variety of State and Federal sources, public and private grants, and in-kind services provided by the partners and volunteers. However, budget cuts of 40 to 60 percent have occurred since 2009, with serious impacts to the positive contributions of these groups to implementing the laws and rules that can protect and control threats to one or more of the 49 species.
Another group was established to coordinate State and Federal agency efforts in the protection of rare endemic plant species in the State and Guam and the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands (CNMI), Hawaii's Plant Extinction Prevention Program (PEPP). This program identifies and supports the "rarest of the rare" plant species in need of immediate conservation efforts. The goal of PEPP is to prevent the extinction of plant species that have fewer than 50 individuals remaining in the wild.
These four partnerships, CGAPS, HISC, HAWP, and PEPP, are stop-gap measures that attempt to address issues that are not resolved by individual State and Federal agencies. The capacity of State and Federal agencies and their nongovernmental partners in Hawaii to provide sufficient inspection services, enforce regulations, and mitigate or monitor the effects of nonnative species is limited due to the large number of taxa currently causing damage (CGAPS 2009). Many invasive, nonnative species established in Hawaii currently have limited but expanding ranges, and they cause considerable concern. Resources available to reduce the spread of these species and counter their negative effects are limited. Control efforts are focused on a few invasive species that cause significant economic or environmental damage to commercial crops and public and private lands. Comprehensive control of an array of nonnative species and management to reduce disturbance regimes that favor them remain limited in scope. If current levels of funding and regulatory support for control of nonnative species are maintained, the Service expects existing programs to continue to exclude, or, on a very limited basis, control these species only in the highest priority areas. Threats from established nonnative species are ongoing and are expected to continue into the future.
As an example of current and future challenges for biosecurity in Hawaii, a strain of the plant rust Puccinia psidii (ohia rust) was first noticed affecting stands of the nonnative rose apple (Syzygium jambos) and the native Metrosideros (ohia) seedlings (both in the plant family Myrtaceae) in nurseries in 2005. Metrosideros spp. are a dominant component of native forest in Hawaii, providing watershed protection and habitat for native wildlife. The Hawaii Board of Agriculture recommended a quarantine rule be passed against the introduction of all new strains of ohia rust (through transmission on Myrtaceae species used in the horticulture trade), to prevent destruction of ohia forests and the risk to agriculture and horticulture industries (Environment Hawaii 2015, pp. 1,8-9). However, the rule remains in draft form and under review (HDOA 2015, in litt.), accessed August 1, 2016). An example of the failure of biosecurity in Hawaii and the speed with which a new invader can cause widespread destruction is the introduction of the gall wasp Quadrastichus erythrinae. This highly destructive wasp was detected in Taiwan in 2003. Despite evidence of its rapid advance across the Pacific Basin with concomitant loss of populations of native and ornamental trees in the genus Erythrina, this wasp arrived and naturalized in Hawaii in 2005 (Gramling 2005, p. 1). The wasp dispersed throughout the main Hawaiian Islands within weeks, and as a result, the endemic wiliwili, Erythrina sandwicensis, was quickly devastated (Rubinoff et al. 2010, p. 24).
On the basis of the information provided above, existing State and Federal regulatory mechanisms are not preventing the introduction of nonnative species and pathogens into Hawaii via interstate and international pathways, or via intrastate movement of nonnative species between islands and watersheds. Nor do these mechanisms address the current threats posed to the 49 species by established nonnative species. Therefore, State and Federal regulatory mechanisms do not adequately protect the 49 species, or their habitats, from the threat of new introductions of nonnative species or the continued expansion of nonnative species populations on and between islands and watersheds. The impacts from these threats are ongoing and are expected to continue into the future.
Summary of Factor D
Existing State and Federal regulatory mechanisms are not preventing the introduction into Hawaii of nonnative species or controlling the spread of nonnative species between islands and watersheds, or establishing or maintaining instream flow standards. Water extraction is a threat to one plant, Cyclosorus boydiae, to the orangeblack Hawaiian damselfly, and the anchialine pool shrimp (Factor A). Habitat-altering ungulates and nonnative plants (Factor A) pose major ongoing threats to all 49 species addressed in this rule. Thirty-five of the 39 plants and all 10 animals experience the threat of predation or herbivory by nonnative animals (Factor C). The seven yellow-faced bees and the orangeblack Hawaiian damselfly experience competition with nonnative insect species (Factor E). The intentional or inadvertent introduction of nonnative species and their spread within Hawaii, and the damage caused by existing populations of nonnative species, continues despite existing regulatory mechanisms designed to address this threat (in all its manifestations described above) to all 49 species. No existing regulatory mechanisms effectively address maintenance of instream flow, springs, seeps, and anchialine pools or address the threats of water extraction and stream modification for the anchialine pool shrimp and orangeblack Hawaiian damselfly. All of these threats are ongoing and are expected to continue into the future; therefore, we conclude the existing regulatory mechanisms are inadequate to reduce or eliminate these threats to the 49 species.
Factor E. Other Natural or Manmade Factors Affecting Their Continued Existence
Other factors that pose a threat to some or all of the 49 species include artificial lighting and structures, ingestion of marine debris and plastics, dumping of trash and the introduction of nonnative fish into anchialine pools, recreational use of and sedimentation of anchialine pools, low numbers of individuals and populations, hybridization, lack of or declining regeneration, competition with nonnative invertebrates, and loss of host plants. Each threat is discussed in detail below, along with identification of which species are affected by these threats. The impacts of climate change to these species and their ecosystems have the potential to exacerbate all of the threats described below.
Artificial Lighting and Structures Effects on the Band-Rumped Storm-Petrel
Artificial lights are a well-documented threat to night-flying seabirds such as petrels, shearwaters, and storm-petrels (Croxall et al. 2012, p. 28). A significant impact to the band-rumped storm-petrel results from the effects of artificial (night) lighting on fledglings and, to a lesser degree, on adults. Lighting of roadways, resorts, ballparks, residences, and other development, as well as on cruise ships out at sea, both attracts and confuses night-flying storm-petrels and other seabirds (Harrison et al. 1990, p. 49; Reed et al. 1985, p. 377; Telfer et al. 1987, pp. 412-413; Banko et al. 1991, p. 651). Storm-petrels use the night sky to navigate and possibly to search for bioluminescent marine prey (Telfer et al. 1987, p. 412). Artificial lights can attract night-flying seabirds and result in "fallout" (birds becoming grounded) when birds become confused and exhaust themselves circling around lights or collide with buildings, powerlines, or other structures. Once grounded, these birds are at risk of predation or being run over by cars (Reed et al. 1985, p. 377; Telfer et al. 1987, p. 410). Vulnerability to artificial lighting varies among species and age classes and is influenced by season, lunar phase, and weather conditions. Young birds are more likely than adults to become disoriented by manmade light sources (Montevecchi 2006, pp. 101-102). Over a 12-year period (1978 to 1990), Harrison et al. (1990, p. 49) reported that 15 band-rumped storm-petrels, 13 of which were fledglings, were recovered on Kauai as a result of fallout. Between 1991 and 2008, another 21 band-rumped storm-petrels were collected on Kauai (Holmes and Joyce 2009, p. 2). Currently, fallout due to light pollution is recorded almost annually on Kauai (Kauai Island Utility Cooperative 2015, in litt.). In addition, band-rumped storm-petrels may be attracted to lights at sea and collide with boats; this source of injury and mortality has been documented for other storm-petrel species (e.g., Black 2005, p. 67). The actual extent of such loss and its overall impact on the band-rumped storm-petrel population in Hawaii is not known because scavengers often prevent the detection or recovery of the dead or injured birds, and the scattered and remote nesting areas of this species preclude demographic monitoring to quantify the impacts of this source of mortality. However, given the probable small total number of band-rumped storm-petrels nesting in Hawaii and the threats they face from nonnative predators such as rats and cats, any additional mortalities are likely to have negative impacts on the population.
A related threat to seabirds in Hawaii, including the band-rumped storm-petrel, is collision with structures such as communication towers and utility lines (Cooper and Day 1998, pp. 16-18; Podolsky et al. 1998, pp. 23-33). Several seabird species that nest in the Hawaiian Islands, including the Newell's Townsend's shearwater (federally listed as threatened), the Hawaiian petrel (federally listed as endangered), and the band-rumped storm-petrel, regularly commute between inland nest sites and the ocean. These birds commute at night, when manmade obstacles such as communication towers and utility lines are difficult to see. They strike these unseen obstacles, and often die or are injured as a result. An early study estimated that 340 Newell's Townsend's shearwater fledglings die annually on the eastern and southern shores of Kauai as a result of collisions (Podolsky et al. 1998, p. 30); however, current analyses for all seabirds on Kauai indicate the number of collisions with utility lines is much higher, over 2,000 strikes per year (using site-specific strike rates), but numbers of birds that hit utility lines is site-dependent (Travers et al. 2014, pp. 19, 29-37; Service 2015, in litt., Slide 21). Absent preventative measures, the impact to the band-rumped storm-petrel from artificial lighting and collisions with structures is expected to increase as the human population grows and development continues on the Hawaiian Islands.
Other Human Effects on the Band-Rumped Storm-Petrel
Other factors that may negatively affect the band-rumped storm-petrel include commercial fisheries interactions and alteration of prey base upon which the band-rumped storm-petrel depends. Commercial fisheries are known to adversely affect certain species of seabirds (Furness 2003, pp. 33-35). Seabirds are caught in fishing gear and suffer mortality by drowning. Seabirds also come into contact with and consume deep-water fish to which they would not normally have access, and can become contaminated by high levels of heavy metals in these fish (Furness 2003, p. 34). Commercial fisheries also cause depletion of small pelagic schooling fish, a significant food source for seabirds (Furness 2003, p. 34). The potential effects of these activities have not been assessed for the band-rumped storm-petrel; however, storm-petrels have been observed to attend fishing vessels (e.g., Yorio and Caille 1999, p. 21; Yeh et al. 2013, p. 146), and the effects of fishery interactions on this species are likely to be similar to those documented for other seabird species in the same order (Procellariiformes or tubenoses; albatrosses and petrels). In addition, plastics and other debris in the open ocean can be ingested accidentally by band-rumped storm-petrels and pose a threat to this species (Ryan 1989, p. 629). Although a study by Moser and Lee (1992, p. 85) found no evidence of plastic ingestion by band-rumped storm-petrels, the sample size was very small (4 individuals) and inadequate to conclusively determine whether this species suffers from ingestion of plastics. Other species of storm-petrels have been documented to ingest plastics (Bond and Lavers 2013, p. 3; Ryan 2015, p. 20; Wilcox et al. 2015, p. 3), and band-rumped storm-petrels are likely to do so also. Many closely related seabirds do suffer ill effects from ingestion of plastics, including physical damage to the digestive tract, effects of toxins carried on the plastics, and resulting mortality (Ryan 1989, pp. 623-629; Tanaka et al. 2013, pp. 2-3).
Effects of Recreational Use, and Dumping of Trash and Nonnative Fish Into Anchialine Pools
On Hawaii Island, it is estimated that up to 90 percent of the anchialine pools have been destroyed or altered by human activities (Brock 2004, p. i). The more recent human modification of anchialine pools includes bulldozing and filling of pools (Bailey-Brock and Brock 1993, p. 354). Trampling damage from use of anchialine pools for swimming and bathing has been documented (Brock 2004, pp. 13-17). Historically, pools were sometimes modified with stone walls and steps by Hawaiians who used them for bathing. There are no documented negative impacts to pond biota as a result of this activity; however, introduction of soaps and shampoos is of concern (Brock 2004, p. 15).
The depressional features of anchialine pools make them susceptible to dumping. Refuse found in degraded pools and pools that have been filled with rubble have been dated to about 100 years old, and the practice of dumping trash into pools continues today (Brock 2004, p. 15). For example, Lua O Palahemo (Hawaii Island) is located approximately 560 ft (170 m) from a sandy beach frequented by visitors who fish and swim. There are multiple dirt roads that surround the pool making it highly accessible. Plastic bags, paper, fishing line, water bottles, soda cans, radios, barbed wire, and a bicycle have been documented within the pool (Kensley and Williams 1986, pp. 417-418; Bozanic 2004, p. 1; Wada 2010, in litt.). Introduction of trash involving chemical contamination into anchialine pools, as has been observed elsewhere on Hawaii Island (Brock 2004, pp. 15-16), drastically affects water quality and results in local extirpation of anchialine pool shrimp species.
Anchialine pool habitats can gradually disappear when wind-blown materials accumulate through a process known as senescence (Maciolek and Brock 1974, p. 3; Brock 2004, pp. 11, 35-36). Conditions promoting rapid senescence include an increased amount of sediment deposition, good exposure to light, shallowness, and a weak connection with the water table, resulting in sediment and detritus accumulating within the pool instead of being flushed away with tidal exchanges and ground water flow (Maciolek and Brock 1974, p. 3; Brock 2004, pp. 11, 35-36). Sedimentation degrades the health of Hawaiian anchialine pool systems in which the anchialine pool shrimp, Procaris hawaiana, and the orangeblack Hawaiian damselfly occur.
In general, the accidental or intentional introduction and spread of nonnative fishes (bait and aquarium fish) is considered the greatest threat to anchialine pools in Hawaii (Brock 2004, p. 16). Maciolek (1983, p. 612) found that the abundance of shrimp in a given population is indirectly related to predation by fish. Lua O Palahemo is vulnerable to the intentional dumping of nonnative bait and aquarium fishes because the area is accessible to vehicles and human traffic, although due to its remote location, it is not monitored regularly by State agency staff. The release of mosquito fish and tilapia into the Waikoloa Anchialine Pond Preserve (WAAPA) at Waikoloa, North Kona, Hawaii, resulted in the infestation of all ponds within an approximately 3-ha (8-ac) area, which represented about two-thirds of the WAAPA. Within 6 months, all native hypogeal (subterranean) shrimp species disappeared (Brock 2004, p. iii). Nonnative fish drive anchialine species out of the lighted, higher productivity portion of the pools, into the surrounding water table bed rock, subsequently leading to the decimation of the benthic community structure of the pool (Brock 2004, p. iii). In addition, nonnative fish prey on and exclude native hypogeal shrimp that are usually a dominant and essential faunal component of anchialine pool ecosystems (Brock 2004, p. 16; Bailey-Brock and Brock 1993, pp. 338-355). The loss of the shrimp changes ecological succession by reducing herbivory of macroalgae, allowing an overgrowth and change of pool flora. This overgrowth changes the system from clear, well-flushed basins to a system characterized by heavy sedimentation and poor water exchange, which increases the rate of pool senescence (Brock 2004, p. 16). Nonnative fishes, unlike native fishes, are able to complete their life cycles within anchialine pool habitats, and remain a permanent detrimental presence in all pools in which they are introduced (Brock 2004, p. 16). In Hawaii, the most frequently introduced fishes are those in the Poeciliidae family (freshwater fish which bear live young) and include mosquito fish, various mollies (Poecilia spp.), and tilapia, that prey on and exclude the herbivorous aquatic animals upon which Procaris hawaiana feeds. More than 90 percent of the 600 to 700 anchialine habitats in the State of Hawaii were degraded between 1974 and 2004, due to the introduction of nonnative fishes (Brock 2004, p. 24). According to Brock (2012, pers. comm.), sometime in the 1980s, nonnative fishes were introduced into Lua O Palahemo. It is our understanding that the fish were subsequently removed by illegal use of a fish poison (EPA 2007. pp. 22-23; Finlayson et al. 2010, p. 2), and to our knowledge the pool is currently free of nonnative fish; however, nonnative fish could be introduced into the pool at any time.
Low Numbers of Individuals and Populations
Species that undergo significant habitat loss and degradation, and other threats resulting in population decline, range reduction, and fragmentation, are inherently highly vulnerable to extinction because of localized catastrophes such as hurricanes, floods, rockfalls, landslides, treefalls, and drought; climate change impacts; demographic stochasticity; and the increased risk of genetic bottlenecks and inbreeding depression (Gilpin and Soule 1986, pp. 24-34). These conditions are easily reached by island species and especially species endemic to single islands that face numerous threats such as those described above (Pimm et al. 1988, p. 757; Mangel and Tier 1994, p. 607). Populations that have been diminished and isolated by habitat loss, predation, and other threats exhibit reduced levels of genetic variability, which diminishes the species' capacity to adapt to environmental changes, thereby lessening the probability of long-term persistence (Barrett and Kohn 1991, p. 4; Newman and Pilson 1997, p. 361). Very small, isolated plant populations are also more susceptible to reduced reproductive vigor due to ineffective pollination, inbreeding depression, and hybridization. This is particularly true for functionally unisexual plants like Myrsine fosbergii of which some individuals are functionally dioecious (male and female flowers occur on separate individuals). Isolated individuals have difficulty in achieving natural pollen exchange, which decreases the production of viable seed. Populations are also affected by demographic stochasticity, through which populations are skewed toward either male or female individuals by chance. The problems associated with small occurrence size and vulnerability to random demographic fluctuations or natural catastrophes are further magnified by interactions with other threats, such as those discussed above (see Factor A and Factor C, above).
Plants
The effects resulting from having a reduced number of individuals and occurrences poses a threat to all 39 plant species addressed in this proposal. We consider the following 19 species to be especially vulnerable to extinction due to threats associated with small occurrence size or small number of occurrences because:
. The only known occurrences of Cyanea kauaulaensis, Labordia lorenciana, Lepidium orbiculare, and Phyllostegia helleri are threatened either by landslides, rockfalls, treefalls, drought, or erosion, or a combination of these factors.
. Cyanea kauaulaensis, Cyrtandra hematos, Gardenia remyi, Joinvillea ascendens ssp. ascendens, Labordia lorenciana, Nothocestrum latifolium, and Ochrosia haleakalae numbers are declining, and they have not been observed regenerating in the wild.
. The only known wild individuals of Cyperus neokunthianus, Kadua haupuensis, and Stenogyne kaalae ssp. sherffii are extirpated; there is one remaining individual of Deparia kaalaana, and only three individuals of Phyllostegia brevidens. Kadua haupuensis and Stenogyne kaalae ssp. sherffii only exist in propagation.
. The following single-island endemic species are known from fewer than 250 individuals: Asplenium diellaciniatum, Cyanea kauaulaensis, Cyperus neokunthianus, Cyrtandra hematos, Dryopteris glabra var. pusilla, Hypolepis hawaiiensis var. mauiensis, Kadua haupuensis, Labordia lorenciana, Lepidium orbiculare, Phyllostegia helleri, Pritchardia bakeri, Santalum involutum, Stenogyne kaalae ssp. sherffii, and Wikstroemia skottsbergiana.
Animals
Like most native island biota, the Hawaiian population of band-rumped storm-petrel, the orangeblack Hawaiian damselfly, the anchialine pool shrimp (Procaris hawaiana), and the seven yellow-faced bees are particularly sensitive to disturbances due to their diminished numbers of individuals and populations, and small geographic ranges.
The band-rumped storm-petrel is represented in Hawaii by very small numbers of populations, and perhaps not more than a few hundred individuals (Harrison et al. 1990, p. 49). A single human-caused action such as establishment of mongoose on Kauai, or a hurricane during the breeding season, could cause reproductive failure and the mortality of a significant percentage of the remaining individuals. Threats to this species include habitat destruction and modification, landslides and erosion, hurricanes, predation, injury and mortality from lights and structures, and other human factors (such as commercial fisheries). The effects of these threats are compounded by the current low number of individuals and populations of band-rumped storm-petrel.
We consider the orangeblack Hawaiian damselfly vulnerable to extinction due to impacts associated with low numbers of individuals and low numbers of populations because this species is known from only five of eight Hawaiian Islands (Hawaii Island, Maui, Lanai, Molokai, and Oahu) where it occurred historically, and because of the current reduction in numbers on each of those five islands. Jordan et al. (2007, p. 247) conducted a genetic and comparative phylogeography analysis (a study of historical processes responsible for genetic divergence within a species) of four Hawaiian Megalagrion species, including the orangeblack Hawaiian damselfly. This analysis demonstrated Megalagrion populations with low genetic diversity are at greater risk of decline and extinction than those with high genetic diversity. The authors found that low genetic diversity was observed in populations known to be bottlenecked or relictual (groups of animals or plants that exist as a remnant of a formerly widely distributed group), including populations of the orangeblack Hawaiian damselfly. The following threats to this species have all been documented: habitat destruction and modification by agriculture and urban development, droughts, floods, and hurricanes; predation by nonnative fish, backswimmers, bullfrogs, and Jackson's chameleons; competition with caddisflies; and water extraction from streams and ponds. The effects of these threats are compounded by the current low number of individuals and populations of the orangeblack Hawaiian damselfly.
We consider the anchialine pool shrimp, Procaris hawaiana, vulnerable to extinction due to impacts associated with low numbers of individuals and populations because this species is known from only 25 of over 500 assessed anchialine pools on Hawaii Island, and from only 2 anchialine pools on Maui. Threats to P. hawaiana include: Habitat destruction and modification; agriculture and urban development; commercial trade; dumping of nonnative fish and trash into anchialine pools; recreation; and water extraction. The effects of these threats are compounded by the low number of individuals and populations of P. hawaiana.
We consider the seven Hawaiian yellow-faced bees vulnerable to extinction due to impacts associated with low numbers of individuals and populations. The seven yellow-faced bee species currently occur in only 22 locations (with some overlap) on six main Hawaiian Islands, and are vulnerable to habitat change and stochastic events due to low numbers and occurrences (Daly and Magnacca 2003, p. 3; Magnacca 2007, p. 173). Hylaeus anthracinus occurs in 15 total locations from Hawaii Island, Maui, Kahoolawe, Molokai, and Oahu, but has not been recently observed in its last known location on Lanai; H. assimulans is found in 5 total locations on Maui, Lanai, and Kahoolawe, but has not been observed recently on Oahu or Molokai; H. facilis is found in 2 total locations on Oahu and Molokai, but has not been observed recently from Lanai and Maui; H. hilaris is known from one population on Molokai and has not been observed recently from Lanai and Maui; H. kuakea is known from one small area on Oahu; H. longiceps is known from 6 total locations on Maui, Lanai, Molokai, and Oahu, but has not been collected from several historical locations on those islands; and H. mana is known from 3 locations on Oahu. Threats to these species include agriculture and urban development; habitat destruction and modification by nonnative ungulates, nonnative plants, tsunamis, fire, drought, and hurricanes; the effects of climate change on habitat; loss of host plants; and predation or competition by nonnative ants, wasps, and bees. The effects of these threats are compounded by the low numbers of individuals and populations of the seven yellow-faced bees.
Hybridization
Natural hybridization is a frequent phenomenon in plants and can lead to the creation of new species (Orians 2000, p. 1949), or sometimes to the decline of species through genetic assimilation or "introgression" (Ellstrand 1992, pp. 77, 81; Levin et al. 1996, pp. 10-16; Rhymer and Simberloff 1996, p. 85). Hybridization, however, is especially problematic for rare species that come into contact with species that are abundant or more common (Rhymer and Simberloff 1996, p. 83). We consider hybridization to be a threat to Cyrtandra hematos, Microlepia strigosa var. mauiensis, and Myrsine fosbergii because it will lead to extinction of the original genotypically distinct species and varieties, as noted by biologists' observations of occurrences (Kawelo 2009, in litt.; Ching Harbin 2015, in litt.; Oppenheimer 2015, in litt.;).
No Regeneration
Lack of, or low levels of, regeneration (reproduction and recruitment) in the wild has been observed, and is a threat to seven plants: Cyanea kauaulaensis, Cyrtandra hematos, Gardenia remyi, Joinvillea ascendens ssp. ascendens, Labordia lorenciana, Nothocestrum latifolium, and Ochrosia haleakalae (see Plants under "Low Numbers of Individuals and Populations," above). The reasons for this are not well understood; however, seed predation by rats and ungulates, inbreeding depression, and lack of pollinators are thought to play a role (Wagner et al. 1999, p. 1451; Wood et al. 2007, p. 198; HBMP 2010; Oppenheimer and Lorence 2012, pp. 20-21; PEPP 2010, p. 73; PEPP 2014, p. 34).
Competition With Nonnative Invertebrates
There are 15 known species of nonnative bees in Hawaii (Snelling 2003, p. 342), including two nonnative Hylaeus species (Magnacca 2007, p. 188). Most nonnative bees inhabit areas dominated by nonnative vegetation and do not compete with Hawaiian bees for foraging resources (Daly and Magnacca 2003, p. 13); however, the European honey bee (Apis mellifera) is an exception. This social species is often very abundant in areas with native vegetation and aggressively competes with Hylaeus for nectar and pollen (Hopper et al. 1996, p. 9; Daly and Magnacca 2003, p. 13; Snelling 2003, p. 345). The European honey bee was first introduced to the Hawaiian Islands in 1875, and currently inhabits areas from sea level to the upper tree line boundary (Howarth 1985, p. 156). Individuals of the European honey bee have been observed foraging on Hylaeus host plants such as Scaevola spp. and Sesbania tomentosa (ohai) (Hopper et al. 1996, p. 9; Daly and Magnacca 2003, p. 13; Snelling 2003, p. 345). Although we lack information indicating Hawaiian Hylaeus populations have declined because of competition with the European honey bee for nectar and pollen, it does forage in Hylaeus habitat and excludes Hylaeus species (Magnacca 2007b, p. 188; Lach 2008, p. 155). Hylaeus species do not occur in native habitat where there are large numbers of European honey bee individuals, but the impact of smaller, more moderate populations is not known (Magnacca 2007, p. 188). Nonnative, invasive bees are widely documented to decrease nectar volumes and usurp native pollinators (Lach 2008, p. 155). There are also indications that populations of the European honey bee are not as vulnerable as Hylaeus species to predation by nonnative ant species (see Factor C. Disease or Predation, above). As described above, Hylaeus bees that collect pollen from flowers of the native tree Metrosideros polymorpha were absent from trees with flowers visited by the big-headed ant, while visits by the European honey bee were not affected (Lach 2008, p. 155). As a result, Lach (2008, p. 155) concluded that the European honey bee may have a competitive advantage over Hylaeus species because it is not excluded by the big-headed ant. Other nonnative bees found in areas of native vegetation and overlapping with native Hylaeus population sites include Ceratina species (carpenter bees), Hylaeus albonitens (Australian colletid bees), H. strenuus (NCN), and Lasioglossum impavidum (NCN) (Magnacca 2007, p. 188; Magnacca and King 2013, pp. 19-22).
Loss of Host Plants Through Competition
The seven yellow-faced bees are dependent upon native flowering plants for their food resources, pollen and nectar, and for nesting sites. Introduced invertebrates outcompete native Hylaeus for use of host plants for pollen, nectar, and nesting sites. This effect is compounded by the impacts of nonnative ungulates on native host plants for Hylaeus (see discussion under Factors A and C, above). Nonnative plants are a threat to the seven yellow-faced bees and their host plants because they (1) Degrade habitat and outcompete native plants; (2) increase the intensity, extent, and frequency of fire, converting native shrubland and forest to land dominated by nonnative grasses; and (3) as a result of fire, cause the loss of the native host plants upon which the yellow-faced bees depend (Factor A). Drought, fire, and water extraction lead to loss of host plants within the known ranges of populations of yellow-faced bees, and are discussed under Factor A. The Present or Threatened Destruction, Modification, or Curtailment of Their Habitat or Range, above.
Competition With Caddisflies
Caddisflies (Order Trichoptera), a nonnative aquatic insect, were first observed and identified in Hawaii in the 1940s (Flint et al. 2003, p. 31); several species are established on all the main Hawaiian Islands. They may have been introduced inadvertently with aquarium plants released into streams (Flint et al. 2003, p. 37). Stream sampling showed that caddisflies accounted for 57 percent of the stream benthos (flora and fauna in stream sediment) in upper elevation Kauai streams (Englund et al. 2000, p. 23; Flint et al. 2003, p. 38), and caddisflies now inhabit every Oahu stream. Caddisflies compete with native aquatic invertebrate for resources and space (Haines 2015, in litt.), which may reduce prey abundance for naiads of the orangeblack Hawaiian damselfly. In addition, caddisflies provide a food source for introduced fish species, contributing to successful establishment of nonnative fish (Flint et al. 2003, p. 38), an additional threat to the orangeblack Hawaiian damselfly.
Climate Change
Our analyses under the Act include consideration of ongoing and projected changes in climate, and the impacts of global climate change and increasing temperatures on Hawaii ecosystems are the subjects of active research. Global temperature has increased over the past century, and particularly since the mid-20th century (IPCC 2014, p. 5), and this increase in temperature is correlated to emissions of carbon dioxide and other greenhouse gasses, which have increased more since 1970 than in prior periods (IPCC 2014, pp. 13-14). Analysis of the historical record indicates surface temperature in Hawaii has been increasing since the early 1900s, with relatively rapid warming over the past 30 years. The average increase since 1975 has been 0.48 [degrees] F (0.27 [degrees] C) per decade for annual mean temperature at elevations above 2,600 ft (800 m) and 0.16 [degrees] F (0.09 [degrees] C) per decade for elevations below 800 m (Giambelluca et al. 2008, pp. 3-4). Relative to average global temperature from 1986 to 2005, the average ambient air temperature is likely to increase globally by at least 0.5 to 4.7 [degrees] F (0.3 to 2.6 [degrees] C) by the year 2100 (IPCC 2013, p. 20). Based on models using climate data downscaled for Hawaii, the ambient temperature is projected to increase by 3.8 to 7.7 [degrees] F (2.1 to 4.3 [degrees] C), depending upon elevation and the emission scenario (Liao et al. 2015, p. 4344). On the main Hawaiian Islands, predicted changes associated with increases in temperature include a shift in vegetation zones upslope, a similar shift in animal species' ranges, changes in mean precipitation with unpredictable effects on local environments, increased occurrence of drought cycles, and increases in intensity and numbers of hurricanes (Loope and Giambelluca 1998, pp. 514-515; U.S. Global Change Research Program (US-GCRP) 2009, pp. 10, 12, 17-18, 32-33; Giambelluca 2013, p. 6). Additionally, sea level is rising as a result of thermal expansion of warming ocean water; the melting of ice sheets, glaciers, and ice caps; and the addition of water from terrestrial systems (Climate Institute 2011, in litt.), and sea-level rise negatively affects species occurring in low-lying coastal areas including Solanum nelsonii (Starr 2011, in litt.) and affects the stability of anchialine pools systems that are habitat for Procaris hawaiana (Sakihara 2015, in litt.).
The forecast of changes in precipitation is highly uncertain because it depends, in part, on how the El Nino-La Nina weather cycle (an episodic feature of the ocean-atmosphere system in the tropical Pacific having important global consequences for weather and climate) might change (State of Hawaii 1998, pp. 2-10). The historical record indicates that Hawaii tends to be dry (relative to a running average) during El Nino phases and wet during La Nina phases (Chen and Chu 2005, pp. 4809-4810). However, over the past century, the Hawaiian Islands have experienced a decrease in precipitation of just over 9 percent (US National Science and Technology Council 2008, p. 61) and a trend of decrease (from the long-term mean) is evident in recent decades (Chu and Chen 2005, pp. 4802-4803; Diaz et al. 2005, pp. 1-3). Stream-gauge data provide corroborating evidence of a long-term decrease in precipitation and stream flow on the Hawaiian Islands (Oki 2004, p. 4). This long-term drying trend, coupled with existing ditch diversions and periodic El Nino-caused drying events, has created a pattern of severe and persistent stream dewatering events (Polhemus 2008, in litt., p. 26). Models of future rainfall downscaled for Hawaii generally project increasingly wet windward slopes and mild to extreme drying of leeward areas in particular by the middle and end of the 21st century (Timm and Diaz 2009, p. 4262; Elison Timm et al. 2015, pp. 95, 103-105). Altered seasonal moisture regimes can have negative impacts on plant growth cycles and overall negative impacts on native ecosystems (US-GCRP 2009, pp. 32-33). Long periods of decline in annual precipitation result in a reduction of moisture availability, an increase in drought frequency and intensity, and a self-perpetuating cycle of nonnative plant invasion, fire, and erosion (US-GCRP 2009, pp. 32-33; Warren 2011, pp. 221-226) (see "Habitat Destruction and Modification by Fire," above). Overall, the documented and projected increase in variance of precipitation events will change patterns of water availability for the species (Parmesan and Matthews 2006, p. 340), changes that point to changes in plant communities as a consequence over the coming decades.
Tropical cyclone frequency and intensity are projected to change as a result of increasing temperature and changing circulation associated with climate change over the next 100 to 200 years (Vecchi and Soden 2007, pp. 1068-1069, Figures 2 and 3; Emanuel et al. 2008, p. 360, Figure 8; Yu et al. 2010, p. 1371, Figure 14). In the central Pacific, modeling projects an increase of up to two additional tropical cyclones per year in the main Hawaiian Islands by 2100 (Murakami et al. 2013, p. 2, Figure 1d). In general, tropical cyclones with the intensities of hurricanes have been an uncommon occurrence in the Hawaiian Islands. From the 1800s until 1949, hurricanes were only rarely reported from ships in the area. Between 1950 and 1997, 22 hurricanes passed near or over the Hawaiian Islands, and 5 of these caused serious damage (Businger 1998, in litt.). A recent study shows that, with a possible shift in the path of the subtropical jet stream northward, away from Hawaii, more storms will be able to approach and reach the Hawaiian Islands from an easterly direction, with Hurricane Iselle in 2014 being an example (Murakami et al. 2015, p. 751).
As described above (see Climate Change Vulnerability Assessment for the Hawaiian Plants, above, and Table 2), 27 of the 39 plant species in this proposal were included in the recent analysis of the vulnerability of Hawaiian plants to climate changes conducted by Fortini et al. (2013, 134 pp.). All 27 species scored as moderately to extremely vulnerable, as did most other species in the analysis that already are considered to be of conservation concern (because they face multiple non-climate threats) (Fortini et al. 2013, pp. 25, 37). The specific impacts of climate change effects on the habitat, biology, and ecology of individual species are largely unknown and remain a subject of study. However, in the assessment of more than 1,000 Hawaiian plants, including 319 already listed as endangered or threatened, a strong relationship emerged between climate vulnerability scores and current threats and conservation status (Fortini et al. 2013, p. 5). Therefore, we anticipate that the 13 plant species not analyzed are likely to be similarly vulnerable to climate change effects. The projected landscape- or island-scale changes in temperature and precipitation, as well as the potentially catastrophic impacts of projected increases in storm frequency and severity, also point to likely adverse impacts of climate change on all 10 of the animal species considered in this proposal because they rely on abiotic conditions, such as water temperature, or habitat elements, such as host plants and prey species, likely to be substantively altered by climate change.
Although we lack information about the specific effects of current and projected climate change on these species, we anticipate that increased ambient temperature and hurricane intensity, changing precipitation patterns, and sea-level rise and inundation will create additional stresses on these species because they are vulnerable to these disturbances. For example, projected warmer temperatures and increased storm severity resulting from climate change are likely to exacerbate other threats to the species, such as by enhancing the spread of nonnative invasive plants into these species' native ecosystems in Hawaii. The drying trend, especially on leeward sides of islands, creates suitable conditions for increased invasion by nonnative grasses and enhances the risk of wildfire. Sea-level rise threatens ecosystems and species nearest the coast, including the anchialine pool ecosystem.
The risk of extinction as a result of the effects of climate change increases when a species' range and habitat requirements are restricted, its habitat decreases, and its numbers and number of populations decline (IPCC 2014, pp. 14-15). The fragmented range, diminished number of populations, and low total number of individuals have compromised the rangewide redundancy and resilience of these 49 species. Therefore, we would expect them to be particularly vulnerable to the habitat impacts of the effects of climate change (Loope and Giambelluca 1998, pp. 504-505; Pounds et al. 1999, pp. 611-612; Still et al. 1999, p. 610; Benning et al. 2002, pp. 14,246-14,248; Giambelluca and Luke 2007, pp. 13-15). Although we cannot predict the timing, extent, or magnitude of specific impacts, we do expect the effects of climate change to exacerbate the current threats to these species, such as habitat loss and degradation.
In summary, based on the best available information, we conclude that climate change effects, including increased inter-annual variability of ambient temperature, precipitation, and hurricanes, are likely to impose additional stresses on all 11 ecosystems and all of the 49 species we are listing in this rule, thus exacerbating current threats to these species. These 49 species all persist with small population sizes and highly restricted or fragmented ranges. They thus face increased immediate risk from stochastic events such as hurricanes, which can extinguish an important proportion of the remaining individuals, and from long-term, landscape-scale environmental changes because reduced populations often lack ecological or genetic adaptive capacity (Fortini et al. 2013, pp. 3-5).
In addition to impacts resulting from changes in terrestrial habitat and disturbance regimes, climate change affects aquatic habitat. For example, physiological stress in the orangeblack Hawaiian damselfly is caused by increased water temperatures to which the species is not adapted (Pounds et al. 1999, pp. 611-612; Still et al. 1999, p. 610; Benning et al. 2002, pp. 14246, 14248). All of these aspects of climate change and their impacts on native species and ecosystems will be exacerbated by human demands on Hawaii's natural resources; for example, decreased availability of fresh water will magnify the impact of human water consumption on Hawaii's natural streams and reservoirs (Giambelluca et al. 1991, p. v). Climate change impacts contribute to the multiple threats affecting the status of all of these species, and the effects of climate change are projected to increase in the future.
Summary of Factor E
We consider the threat from artificial lighting and structures to be a serious and ongoing threat to the band-rumped storm-petrel in Hawaii because these threats cause injury and mortality, resulting in a loss of breeding individuals and juveniles, and are expected to continue into the future. Injury or mortality or loss of food sources caused by the activities of commercial fisheries, and injury or mortality resulting from ingestion of plastics and marine debris, are likely to contribute to further decline in the Hawaiian population of the band-rumped storm-petrel.
We consider the threats from recreational use of, and dumping of trash and introduction of nonnative fish into, the pools that support the anchialine pool shrimp Procaris hawaiana to be serious threats that have the potential to occur at any time, although their occurrence is not predictable. The use of anchialine pools for dumping of trash leads to accelerated sedimentation in the pool, exacerbating conditions leading to its senescence. Changing the anchialine pool system by dumping of trash, introduction of nonnative fish, and sedimentation also affects habitat for the orangeblack Hawaiian damselfly. In addition, recreational use of off-road vehicles contributes to increased sedimentation in anchialine pools, and has been noted to affect the habitat of the orangeblack Hawaiian damselfly on Lanai.
We consider the impacts from limited numbers of individuals and populations to be a serious and ongoing threat to all 39 plant species, and especially for the following 19 plants: Asplenium diellaciniatum Cyanea kauaulaensis, Cyperus neokunthianus, Cyrtandra hematos, Deparia kaalaana, Dryopteris glabra var. pusilla, Gardenia remyi, Hypolepis hawaiiensis var. mauiensis, Joinvillea ascendens ssp. ascendens, Kadua haupuensis, Labordia lorenciana, Lepidium orbiculare, Myrsine fosbergii, Phyllostegia brevidens, P. helleri, Pritchardia bakeri, Santalum involutum, Stenogyne kaalae ssp. sherffii, and Wikstroemia skottsbergiana, as low numbers and small occurrences of these plants result in greater vulnerability to stochastic events and can result in reduced levels of genetic variability leading to diminished capacity to adapt to environmental changes. Under these circumstances, the likelihood of long-term persistence is diminished, and the likelihood of extirpation or extinction is increased. This threat applies to the entire range of each of these species.
We also consider the impacts from limited numbers of individuals and populations to be a serious and ongoing threat to the band-rumped storm-petrel, the orangeblack Hawaiian damselfly, the anchialine pool shrimp Procaris hawaiana, and to the yellow-faced bees (Hylaeus anthracinus, H. assimulans, H. facilis, H. hilaris, H. kuakea, H. longiceps, and H. mana). The threat from limited numbers of individuals and populations is ongoing and is expected to continue into the future because (1) A single catastrophic event may result in extirpation of remaining populations and extinction of these species; (2) species with few known occurrences are less resilient to threats that might otherwise have a relatively minor impact (on widely distributed species); (3) these species experience reduced reproductive vigor due to inbreeding depression; and (4) they experience reduced levels of genetic variability leading to diminished capacity to adapt to environmental changes, thereby lessening the probability of its long-term persistence.
The threat from hybridization is an unpredictable but ongoing threat to Cyrtandra hematos, Microlepia strigosa var. mauiensis, and Myrsine fosbergii, as has been observed at current occurrences.
We consider the threat to Cyanea kauaulaensis, Cyrtandra hematos, Gardenia remyi, Joinvillea ascendens ssp. ascendens, Labordia lorenciana, Nothocestrum latifolium, and Ochrosia haleakalae from lack of regeneration to be ongoing and to continue into the future because the reasons for the lack of recruitment in the wild are unknown and uncontrolled, and any competition from nonnative plants or habitat modification by ungulates or fire, or other threats could lead to the extirpation of these species.
We consider the threat of competition with nonnative invertebrates a serious and ongoing threat to the yellow-faced bees, Hylaeus anthracinus, H. assimulans, H. facilis, H. hilaris, H. kuakea, H. longiceps, and H. mana. Nonnative wasps and bees are aggressive and can prevent use of the native host plants required for food and nesting by all seven yellow-faced bees. Competition with caddisflies is a threat to the orangeblack Hawaiian damselfly.
Based on current and projected changes in climate, increasing temperature, changing precipitation regimes, increases in storm severity, and sea-level rise will likely exacerbate the threats to these 49 species. The effects of climate change on these species include, but are not limited to, physiological stress caused by increased water or air temperature or lack of moisture, the long-term destruction and modification of habitat, increased competition by nonnative species, and changes in disturbance regimes that lead to changes in habitat and direct mortality of individuals (e.g., fire, drought, flooding, and hurricanes).
Determination for 49 Species
Section 4 of the Act (16 U.S.C. 1533), and its implementing regulations at 50 CFR part 424, set forth the procedures for adding species to the Federal Lists of Endangered and Threatened Wildlife and Plants. Under section 4(a)(1) of the Act, we may list a species based on (A) The present or threatened destruction, modification, or curtailment of its habitat or range; (B) overutilization for commercial, recreational, scientific, or educational purposes; (C) disease or predation; (D) the inadequacy of existing regulatory mechanisms; or (E) other natural or manmade factors affecting its continued existence. Listing actions may be warranted based on any of the above threat factors, singly or in combination.
We have carefully assessed the best scientific and commercial information available regarding the past, present, and future threats to each of the 49 species. We find that all of these species face threats that are ongoing and are expected to continue into the future throughout their ranges. Habitat destruction and modification by agriculture and urban development, and conversion of wetland habitat or water extraction resulting from such activity, is a threat to one plant, Cyclosorus boydiae, and seven animals (the orangeblack Hawaiian damselfly, the anchialine pool shrimp (Procaris hawaiana), Hylaeus anthracinus, H. assimulans, H. facilis, H. hilaris, and H. longiceps) (Factor A). Habitat destruction and modification by nonnative feral ungulates poses a threat to 46 of the 49 species (except for Cyanea kauaulaensis, Hypolepis hawaiiensis var. mauiensis, and the anchialine pool shrimp) (Factor A). Habitat destruction and modification by nonnative plants poses a threat to all 39 plant species and 9 of the 10 animals (except for Procaris hawaiana) (Factor A). Fourteen of the plant species (Exocarpos menziesii, Festuca hawaiiensis, Joinvillea ascendens ssp. ascendens, Labordia lorenciana, Nothocestrum latifolium, Ochrosia haleakalae, Portulaca villosa, Ranunculus mauiensis, Sanicula sandwicensis, Santalum involutum, Schiedea pubescens, Sicyos lanceoloideus, S. macrophyllus, and Solanum nelsonii) and all seven yellow-faced bees, are at risk of habitat destruction and modification by fire. Habitat loss and mortality resulting from hurricanes is a threat to the plant Pritchardia bakeri, the band-rumped storm-petrel, the orangeblack Hawaiian damselfly, and all seven yellow-faced bees (Factor A). Twenty of the plant species (Cyanea kauaulaensis, Cyclosorus boydiae, Deparia kaalaana, Dryopteris glabra var. pusilla, Gardenia remyi, Joinvillea ascendens ssp. ascendens, Kadua fluviatilis, K. haupuensis, Labordia lorenciana, Lepidium orbiculare, Phyllostegia brevidens, P. helleri, P. stachyoides, Portulaca villosa, Pseudognaphalium sandwicensium var. molokaiense, Ranunculus hawaiensis, R. mauiensis, Sanicula sandwicensis, Schiedea pubescens, and Solanum nelsonii), the band-rumped storm-petrel, and the orangeblack Hawaiian damselfly are threatened by the destruction and modification of their habitats from, either singly or in combination, landslides, rockfalls, treefalls, flooding, or tsunamis (Factor A). Habitat loss or degradation and loss of host plants, mortality, and water extraction due to drought is a threat to the plants Cyclosorus boydiae, Deparia kaalaana, Huperzia stemmermanniae, Phyllostegia stachyoides, Ranunculus hawaiensis, R. mauiensis, Sanicula sandwicensis, Schiedea pubescens, Sicyos lanceoloideus, and Solanum nelsonii; the orangeblack Hawaiian damselfly; and all seven yellow-faced bees (Factor A and Factor E). Unpermitted collection for commercial purposes poses a serious threat to the anchialine pool shrimp Procaris hawaiana (Factor B). Predation or herbivory is a serious and ongoing threat to 35 of the 39 plant species (by feral pigs, goats, axis deer, black-tailed deer, cattle, sheep, mouflon, rats, slugs, and the black twig borer), to the band-rumped storm petrel (by barn owls, cats, rats, and mongoose), and to the seven yellow-faced bees (by ants and wasps) (Factor C). Predation by bullfrogs, backswimmers, nonnative fish, and Jackson's chameleons is a threat to the orangeblack Hawaiian damselfly (Factor C). Predation by nonnative fish is a threat to the anchialine pool shrimp (Factor C). The existing regulatory mechanisms do not adequately address these threats to the 49 species (Factor D). Injury and mortality caused by artificial lighting and structures are serious and ongoing threats to the band-rumped storm-petrel (Factor E). The threats of injury or mortality, or loss of food sources, caused by the activities of commercial fisheries, and injury or mortality resulting from ingestion of plastics and marine debris, can contribute to further decline of the Hawaiian population of the band-rumped storm-petrel (Factor E). Recreational use of, and dumping of trash and nonnative fish into, anchialine pools is a threat to the anchialine pool shrimp and also to the orangeblack Hawaiian damselfly that uses that habitat (Factor E). Competition by ants, wasps, and bees for the food and nesting resources, including loss of native host plants, is a threat to all seven yellow-faced bees. Competition with caddisflies is a threat to the orangeblack Hawaiian damselfly (Factor E). These threats are exacerbated by these species' inherent vulnerability to extinction from stochastic events at any time because of their endemism, low numbers of individuals and populations, and restricted habitats. There are serious and ongoing threats to all 49 species due to factors associated with low numbers of individuals and populations (Factor E). The threat of low numbers to seven plants (Cyanea kauaulaensis, Cyrtandra hematos, Gardenia remyi, Joinvillea ascendens ssp. ascendens, Labordia lorenciana, Nothocestrum latifolium, and Ochrosia haleakalae) is exacerbated by lack of regeneration in the wild (Factor E). Hybridization is a threat to three plant species, Cyrtandra hematos, Microlepia strigosa var. mauiensis, and Myrsine fosbergii (Factor E). The effects of rising temperature and other aspects of climate change are likely to exacerbate many of these threats and likely to pose threats to the 49 species (Factor E).
The Act defines an endangered species as any species that is "in danger of extinction throughout all or a significant portion of its range" and a threatened species as any species "that is likely to become endangered throughout all or a significant portion of its range within the foreseeable future." We find that each of the endemic Hawaiian species and the Hawaii DPS of the band-rumped storm-petrel are presently in danger of extinction throughout their entire ranges. Based on the immediacy, severity, scope, and interaction of the threats described above, such as the pervasive threats of predation and habitat loss and degradation posed by nonnative plants and animals, a determination of threatened status for any of these species is not appropriate. Therefore, on the basis of the best available scientific and commercial information, we are listing the following 49 species as endangered in accordance with sections 3(6) and 4(a)(1) of the Act: the plants Asplenium diellaciniatum, Calamagrostis expansa, Cyanea kauaulaensis, Cyclosorus boydiae, Cyperus neokunthianus, Cyrtandra hematos, Deparia kaalaana, Dryopteris glabra var. pusilla, Exocarpos menziesii, Festuca hawaiiensis, Gardenia remyi, Huperzia stemmermanniae, Hypolepis hawaiiensis var. mauiensis, Joinvillea ascendens ssp. ascendens, Kadua fluviatilis, Kadua haupuensis, Labordia lorenciana, Lepidium orbiculare, Microlepia strigosa var. mauiensis, Myrsine fosbergii, Nothocestrum latifolium, Ochrosia haleakalae, Phyllostegia brevidens, Phyllostegia helleri, Phyllostegia stachyoides, Portulaca villosa, Pritchardia bakeri, Pseudognaphalium sandwicensium var. molokaiense, Ranunculus hawaiensis, Ranunculus mauiensis, Sanicula sandwicensis, Santalum involutum, Schiedea diffusa ssp. diffusa, Schiedea pubescens, Sicyos lanceoloideus, Sicyos macrophyllus, Solanum nelsonii, Stenogyne kaalae ssp. sherffii, and Wikstroemia skottsbergiana; and the following animals: the Hawaii DPS of the band-rumped storm-petrel (Oceanodroma castro), the orangeblack Hawaiian damselfly (Megalagrion xanthomelas), the anchialine pool shrimp (Procaris hawaiana), and the yellow-faced bees Hylaeus anthracinus, Hylaeus assimulans, Hylaeus facilis, Hylaeus hilaris, Hylaeus kuakea, Hylaeus longiceps, and Hylaeus mana.
Under the Act and our implementing regulations, a species may warrant listing if it is in danger of extinction or likely to become so throughout all or a significant portion of its range (SPR). Under our SPR policy (79 FR 37578, July 1, 2014), if a species is endangered or threatened throughout a significant portion of its range and the population in that significant portion is a valid DPS, we will list the DPS rather than the entire taxonomic species or subspecies. We have determined that the Hawaii population of the band-rumped storm-petrel is a valid DPS, and we are listing that DPS. Each of the other 48 species endemic to the Hawaiian Islands that we are listing in this rule is highly restricted in its range, and the threats occur throughout its range. Therefore, we assessed the status of each species throughout its entire range. In each case, the threats to the survival of these species occur throughout the species' range and are not restricted to any particular portion of that range. Accordingly, our assessment and determination applies to each species throughout its entire range. Likewise, we assessed the status of the Hawaii DPS of the band-rumped storm-petrel throughout the range of the DPS and have determined that the threats occur throughout the DPS and are not restricted to any particular portion of the DPS. Because we have determined that these 48 species and one DPS are endangered throughout all of their ranges, no portion of their ranges can be "significant" for purposes of the definitions of "endangered species" and "threatened species." See the Final Policy of Interpretation of the Phrase "Significant Portion of Its Range" in the Endangered Species Act's Definitions of "Endangered Species" and "Threatened Species" (79 FR 37578, July 1, 2014).
Available Conservation Measures
Conservation measures provided to species listed as endangered or threatened species under the Act include recognition, recovery actions, requirements for Federal protection, and prohibitions against certain practices. Recognition through listing results in public awareness and conservation by Federal, State, and local agencies; private organizations; and individuals. The Act encourages cooperation with the States and requires that recovery actions be carried out for all listed species. The protection required by Federal agencies and the prohibitions against certain activities are discussed, in part, below.
The primary purpose of the Act is the conservation of endangered and threatened species and the ecosystems upon which they depend. The ultimate goal of such conservation efforts is the recovery of these listed species, so that they no longer need the protective measures of the Act. Subsection 4(f) of the Act calls for the Service to develop and implement recovery plans for the conservation of endangered and threatened species. The recovery planning process involves the identification of actions that are necessary to halt or reverse the species' decline by addressing the threats to its survival and recovery. The goal of this process is to restore listed species to a point where they are secure, self-sustaining, and functioning components of their ecosystems.
Recovery planning includes the development of a recovery outline shortly after a species is listed and preparation of a draft and final recovery plan. The recovery outline guides the immediate implementation of urgent recovery actions and describes the process to be used to develop a recovery plan. Revisions of the plan may be done to address continuing or new threats to the species, as new substantive information becomes available. The recovery plan identifies site-specific management actions that set a trigger for review of the five factors that control whether a species remains endangered or may be downlisted or delisted, and methods for monitoring recovery progress. Recovery plans also establish a framework for agencies to coordinate their recovery efforts and provide estimates of the cost of implementing recovery tasks. Recovery teams (composed of species experts, Federal and State agencies, nongovernmental organizations, and stakeholders) are often established to develop recovery plans. When completed, the recovery outline, draft recovery plan, and the final recovery plan will be available on our Web site (http://www.fws.gov/endangered), or from our Pacific Islands Fish and Wildlife Office (see FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT).
Implementation of recovery actions generally requires the participation of a broad range of partners, including other Federal agencies, States, nongovernmental organizations, businesses, and private landowners. Examples of recovery actions include habitat restoration (e.g., restoration of native vegetation), research, captive propagation and reintroduction, and outreach and education. The recovery of many listed species cannot be accomplished solely on Federal lands because their range may occur primarily or solely on non-Federal lands. To achieve recovery of these species requires cooperative conservation efforts on all lands.
Following publication of this final listing rule, funding for recovery actions will be available from a variety of sources, including Federal budgets, State programs, and cost share grants for non-Federal landowners, the academic community, and nongovernmental organizations. In addition, pursuant to section 6 of the Act, the State of Hawaii will be eligible for Federal funds to implement management actions that promote the protection or recovery of the 49 species. Information on our grant programs that are available to aid species recovery can be found at: http://www.fws.gov/grants.
Please let us know if you are interested in participating in recovery efforts for one or more of these 49 species. Additionally, we invite you to submit any new information on these species whenever it becomes available and any information you may have for recovery planning purposes (see FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT).
Section 7(a) of the Act, as amended, requires Federal agencies to evaluate their actions with respect to any species that is proposed or listed as endangered or threatened and with respect to its critical habitat, if any is designated. Regulations implementing this interagency cooperation provision of the Act are codified at 50 CFR part 402. Section 7(a)(2) of the Act requires Federal agencies to ensure that activities they authorize, fund, or carry out are not likely to jeopardize the continued existence of a listed species or destroy or adversely modify its critical habitat. If a Federal action may affect a listed species or its critical habitat, the responsible Federal agency must enter into consultation with the Service.
Federal agency actions within the species' habitat that may require conference or consultation or both as described in the preceding paragraph include, but are not limited to, actions within the jurisdiction of the Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS), the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, and branches of the Department of Defense (DOD). Examples of these types of actions include activities funded or authorized under the Farm Bill Program, Environmental Quality Incentives Program, Ground and Surface Water Conservation Program, Clean Water Act (33 U.S.C. 1251 et seq.), Partners for Fish and Wildlife Program, and DOD construction activities related to training or other military missions.
The Act and its implementing regulations set forth a series of general prohibitions and exceptions that apply to endangered wildlife. The prohibitions of section 9(a)(1) of the Act, codified at 50 CFR 17.21, make it illegal for any person subject to the jurisdiction of the United States to take (which includes harass, harm, pursue, hunt, shoot, wound, kill, trap, capture, or collect; or to attempt any of these) endangered wildlife within the United States or the high seas. In addition, it is unlawful to import; export; deliver, receive, carry, transport, or ship in interstate or foreign commerce in the course of commercial activity; or sell or offer for sale in interstate or foreign commerce any listed species. It is also illegal to possess, sell, deliver, carry, transport, or ship any such wildlife that has been taken illegally. Certain exceptions apply to employees of the Service, the National Marine Fisheries Service, other Federal land management agencies, and State conservation agencies.
We may issue permits to carry out otherwise prohibited activities involving endangered wildlife under certain circumstances. Regulations governing permits are codified at 50 CFR 17.22. With regard to endangered wildlife, a permit may be issued for scientific purposes, to enhance the propagation or survival of the species, or for incidental take in connection with otherwise lawful activities. There are also certain statutory exemptions from the prohibitions, which are found in sections 9 and 10 of the Act.
With respect to endangered plants, prohibitions outlined at 50 CFR 17.61 make it illegal for any person subject to the jurisdiction of the United States to import or export, transport in interstate or foreign commerce in the course of a commercial activity, sell or offer for sale in interstate or foreign commerce, or to remove and reduce to possession any such plant species from areas under Federal jurisdiction. In addition, for endangered plants, the Act prohibits malicious damage or destruction of any such species on any area under Federal jurisdiction, and the removal, cutting, digging up, or damaging or destroying of any such species on any other area in knowing violation of any State law or regulation, or in the course of any violation of a State criminal trespass law. Exceptions to these prohibitions are outlined at 50 CFR 17.62.
We may issue permits to carry out otherwise prohibited activities involving endangered plants under certain circumstances. Regulations governing permits are codified at 50 CFR 17.62. With regard to endangered plants, the Service may issue a permit authorizing any activity otherwise prohibited by 50 CFR 17.61 for scientific purposes or for enhancing the propagation or survival of endangered plants.
It is our policy, as published in the Federal Register on July 1, 1994 (59 FR 34272), to identify to the maximum extent practicable at the time a species is listed, those activities that would or would not constitute a violation of section 9 of the Act. The intent of this policy is to increase public awareness of the effect of a listing on proposed and ongoing activities within the range of a listed species. Based on the best available information, activities that may potentially result in a violation of section 9 of the Act include but are not limited to:
(1) Unauthorized collecting, handling, possessing, selling, delivering, carrying, or transporting of the species, including import or export across State lines and international boundaries, except for properly documented antique specimens of these taxa at least 100 years old, as defined by section 100(h)(1) of the Act;
(2) Activities that take or harm the band-rumped storm-petrel, the orangeblack Hawaiian damselfly, the anchialine pool shrimp (Procaris hawaiana), and the seven yellow-faced bees by causing significant habitat modification or degradation such that it causes actual injury by significantly impairing essential behavior patterns. This may include introduction of nonnative species that compete with or prey upon the 10 animal species or the unauthorized release of biological control agents that attack the life stage of any of these 10 species; and
(3) Damaging or destroying any of the 39 plant species in violation of the Hawaii State law prohibiting the take of listed species.
Questions regarding whether specific activities would constitute a violation of section 9 of the Act should be directed to the Pacific Islands Fish and Wildlife Office (see FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT). Requests for copies of the regulations concerning listed species and general inquiries regarding prohibitions and permits may be addressed to the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, Pacific Region, Ecological Services, Endangered Species Permits, Eastside Federal Complex, 911 NE. 11th Avenue, Portland, OR 97232-4181 (telephone 503-231-6131; facsimile 503-231-6243).
Required Determinations
National Environmental Policy Act (42 U.S.C. 4321 et seq.)
We have determined that environmental assessments and environmental impact statements, as defined under the authority of the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA; 42 U.S.C. 4321 et seq.), need not be prepared in connection with listing a species as an endangered or threatened species under the Endangered Species Act. We published a notice outlining our reasons for this determination in the Federal Register on October 25, 1983 (48 FR 49244).
References Cited
A complete list of references cited in this rulemaking is available on the Internet at http://www.regulations.gov under Docket No. FWS-R1-ES-2015-0125 and upon request from the Pacific Islands Fish and Wildlife Office (see FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT).
Authors
The primary authors of this final rule are the staff members of the Pacific Islands Fish and Wildlife Office.
List of Subjects in 50 CFR Part 17
Endangered and threatened species, Exports, Imports, Reporting and recordkeeping requirements, Transportation.
Regulation Promulgation
Accordingly, we amend part 17, subchapter B of chapter I, title 50 of the Code of Federal Regulations, as follows:
PART 17--ENDANGERED AND THREATENED WILDLIFE AND PLANTS
1. The authority citation for part 17 continues to read as follows:
Authority: 16 U.S.C. 1361-1407; 1531-1544; and 4201-4245, unless otherwise noted.
2. Amend SEC 17.11(h), the List of Endangered and Threatened Wildlife, as follows:
a. By adding an entry for "Storm-petrel, band-rumped (Hawaii DPS)" in alphabetical order under BIRDS;
b. By adding entries for "Bee, yellow-faced" (Hylaeus anthracinus), "Bee, yellow-faced" (Hylaeus assimulans), "Bee, yellow-faced" (Hylaeus facilis), "Bee, yellow-faced" (Hylaeus hilaris), "Bee, yellow-faced" (Hylaeus kuakea), "Bee, yellow-faced" (Hylaeus longiceps), "Bee, yellow-faced" (Hylaeus mana), and "Damselfly, orangeblack Hawaiian" (Megalagrion xanthomelas) in alphabetical order under INSECTS; and
c. By adding an entry for "Shrimp, anchialine pool" (Procaris hawaiana) before the entry for "Shrimp, anchialine pool" (Vetericaris chaceorum) under CRUSTACEANS.
The additions read as follows:
SEC 17.11 Endangered and threatened wildlife.
* * * * *
(h) * * *
Common name Scientific name Where listed Status Listing citations and applicable rules Birds * * * * * * * Storm-petrel, Oceanodroma U.S.A. (HI) E 81 FR [Insert band-rumped castro Federal (Hawaii DPS) Register page where the document begins]; 09/30/2016. * * * * * * * Insects Bee, Hylaeus Wherever found E 81 FR [Insert yellow-faced anthracinus Federal Register page where the document begins]; 09/30/2016. Bee, Hylaeus Wherever found E 81 FR [Insert yellow-faced assimulans Federal Register page where the document begins]; 09/30/2016. Bee, Hylaeus facilis Wherever found E 81 FR [Insert yellow-faced Federal Register page where the document begins]; 09/30/2016. Bee, Hylaeus hilaris Wherever found E 81 FR [Insert yellow-faced Federal Register page where the document begins]; 09/30/2016. Bee, Hylaeus kuakea Wherever found E 81 FR [Insert yellow-faced Federal Register page where the document begins]; 09/30/2016. Bee, Hylaeus Wherever found E 81 FR [Insert yellow-faced longiceps Federal Register page where the document begins]; 09/30/2016. Bee, Hylaeus mana Wherever found E 81 FR [Insert yellow-faced Federal Register page where the document begins]; 09/30/2016. * * * * * * * Damselfly, Megalagrion Wherever found E 81 FR [Insert orangeblack xanthomelas Federal Hawaiian Register page where the document begins]; 09/30/2016. * * * * * * * Crustaceans * * * * * * * Shrimp, Procaris Wherever found E 81 FR [Insert anchialine pool hawaiana Federal Register page where the document begins]; 09/30/2016. * * * * * * *
3. Amend SEC 17.12(h), the List of Endangered and Threatened Plants, as follows:
a. By adding entries for Calamagrostis expansa, Cyanea kauaulaensis, Cyperus neokunthianus, Cyrtandra hematos, Exocarpos menziesii, Festuca hawaiiensis, Gardenia remyi, Joinvillea ascendens ssp. ascendens, Kadua fluviatilis, Kadua haupuensis, Labordia lorenciana, Lepidium orbiculare, Myrsine fosbergii, Nothocestrum latifolium, Ochrosia haleakalae, Phyllostegia brevidens, Phyllostegia helleri, Phyllostegia stachyoides, Portulaca villosa, Pritchardia bakeri, Pseudognaphalium sandwicensium var. molokaiense, Ranunculus hawaiensis, Ranunculus mauiensis, Sanicula sandwicensis, Santalum involutum, Schiedea diffusa ssp. diffusa, Schiedea pubescens, Sicyos lanceoloideus, Sicyos macrophyllus, Solanum nelsonii, Stenogyne kaalae ssp. sherffii, and Wikstroemia skottsbergiana in alphabetical order under FLOWERING PLANTS; and
b. By adding entries for Asplenium diellaciniatum, Cyclosorus boydiae, Deparia kaalaana, Dryopteris glabra var. pusilla, Huperzia stemmermanniae, Hypolepis hawaiiensis var. mauiensis, and Microlepia strigosa var. mauiensis in alphabetical order under FERNS AND ALLIES.
The additions read as follows:
SEC 17.12 Endangered and threatened plants.
* * * * *
(h) * * *
Scientific name Common name Where listed Status Listing citations and applicable rules Flowering Plants * * * * * * * Calamagrostis Maui reedgrass Wherever found E 81 FR [Insert expansa Federal Register page where the document begins]; 09/30/2016. * * * * * * * Cyanea No common name Wherever found E 81 FR [Insert kauaulaensis Federal Register page where the document begins]; 09/30/2016. * * * * * * * Cyperus No common name Wherever found E 81 FR [Insert neokunthianus Federal Register page where the document begins]; 09/30/2016. * * * * * * * Cyrtandra Haiwale Wherever found E 81 FR [Insert hematos Federal Register page where the document begins]; 09/30/2016. * * * * * * * Exocarpos Heau Wherever found E 81 FR [Insert menziesii Federal Register page where the document begins]; 09/30/2016. Festuca No common name Wherever found E 81 FR [Insert hawaiiensis Federal Register page where the document begins]; 09/30/2016. * * * * * * * Gardenia remyi Nanu Wherever found E 81 FR [Insert Federal Register page where the document begins]; 09/30/2016. * * * * * * * Joinvillea Ohe Wherever found E 81 FR [Insert ascendens ssp. Federal ascendens Register page where the document begins]; 09/30/2016. * * * * * * * Kadua Kamapuaa Wherever found E 81 FR [Insert fluviatilis Federal Register page where the document begins]; 09/30/2016. Kadua haupuensis No common name Wherever found E 81 FR [Insert Federal Register page where the document begins]; 09/30/2016. * * * * * * * Labordia No common name Wherever found E 81 FR [Insert lorenciana Federal Register page where the document begins]; 09/30/2016. * * * * * * * Lepidium Anaunau Wherever found E 81 FR [Insert orbiculare Federal Register page where the document begins]; 09/30/2016. * * * * * * * Myrsine Kolea Wherever found E 81 FR [Insert fosbergii Federal Register page where the document begins]; 09/30/2016. * * * * * * * Nothocestrum Aiea Wherever found E 81 FR [Insert latifolium Federal Register page where the document begins]; 09/30/2016. * * * * * * * Ochrosia Holei Wherever found E 81 FR [Insert haleakalae Federal Register page where the document begins]; 09/30/2016. * * * * * * * Phyllostegia No common name Wherever found E 81 FR [Insert brevidens Federal Register page where the document begins]; 09/30/2016. * * * * * * * Phyllostegia No common name Wherever found E 81 FR [Insert helleri Federal Register page where the document begins]; 09/30/2016. * * * * * * * Phyllostegia No common name Wherever found E 81 FR [Insert stachyoides Federal Register page where the document begins]; 09/30/2016. * * * * * * * Portulaca Ihi Wherever found E 81 FR [Insert villosa Federal Register page where the document begins]; 09/30/2016. * * * * * * * Pritchardia Baker's loulu Wherever found E 81 FR [Insert bakeri Federal Register page where the document begins]; 09/30/2016. * * * * * * * Pseudognaphalium Enaena Wherever found E 81 FR [Insert sandwicensium Federal var. molokaiense Register page where the document begins]; 09/30/2016. * * * * * * * Ranunculus Makou Wherever found E 81 FR [Insert hawaiensis Federal Register page where the document begins]; 09/30/2016. Ranunculus Makou Wherever found E 81 FR [Insert mauiensis Federal Register page where the document begins]; 09/30/2016. * * * * * * * Sanicula No common name Wherever found E 81 FR [Insert sandwicensis Federal Register page where the document begins]; 09/30/2016. * * * * * * * Santalum Iliahi Wherever found E 81 FR [Insert involutum Federal Register page where the document begins]; 09/30/2016. * * * * * * * Schiedea diffusa No common name Wherever found E 81 FR [Insert ssp. diffusa Federal Register page where the document begins]; 09/30/2016. * * * * * * * Schiedea Maolioli Wherever found E 81 FR [Insert pubescens Federal Register page where the document begins]; 09/30/2016. * * * * * * * Sicyos Anunu Wherever found E 81 FR [Insert lanceoloideus Federal Register page where the document begins]; 09/30/2016. Sicyos Anunu Wherever found E 81 FR [Insert macrophyllus Federal Register page where the document begins]; 09/30/2016. * * * * * * * Solanum nelsonii Popolo Wherever found E 81 FR [Insert Federal Register page where the document begins]; 09/30/2016. * * * * * * * Stenogyne kaalae No common name Wherever found E 81 FR [Insert ssp. sherffii Federal Register page where the document begins]; 09/30/2016. * * * * * * * Wikstroemia Akia Wherever found E 81 FR [Insert skottsbergiana Federal Register page where the document begins]; 09/30/2016. * * * * * * * Ferns and Allies * * * * * * * Asplenium No common name Wherever found E 81 FR [Insert diellaciniatum Federal Register page where the document begins]; 09/30/2016. * * * * * * * Cyclosorus Kupukupu Wherever found E 81 FR [Insert boydiae makalii Federal Register page where the document begins]; 09/30/2016. Deparia kaalaana No common name Wherever found E 81 FR [Insert Federal Register page where the document begins]; 09/30/2016. * * * * * * * Dryopteris Hohiu Wherever found E 81 FR [Insert glabra var. Federal pusilla Register page where the document begins]; 09/30/2016. * * * * * * * Huperzia No common name Wherever found E 81 FR [Insert stemmermanniae Federal Register page where the document begins]; 09/30/2016. Hypolepis Olua Wherever found E 81 FR [Insert hawaiiensis var. Federal mauiensis Register page where the document begins]; 09/30/2016. * * * * * * * Microlepia No common name Wherever found E 81 FR [Insert strigosa var. Federal mauiensis Register page where the document begins]; 09/30/2016. * * * * * * *
Dated: September 12, 2016.
Stephen Guertin,
Acting Director, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service.
[FR Doc. 2016-23112 Filed 9-29-16; 8:45 am]
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