Are there indigenous and endemic ecosystems?
We can apply the terms endemic and indigenous to ecosystems as well. There is a rare forest type, very rich in native trees, that is endemic to the island of Kaua’i. It is called the Kaua’i Diverse Lowland Mesic Forest, and is known from Kalalau Valley, and a few locations in Waimea and Koke’e. In contrast, the coastal shrub, naupaka kahakai, is indigenous to Hawaii, and widespread in Oceania. This hardy coastal plant forms similar shrublands on all of the main Hawaiian Islands and elsewhere in Polynesia. Hawai’i Ho’olau Hou Home Page About the Wiliwili Tree, (our logo). Become an HHH member What is Hawai’i Ho’olau Hou?
