A review of the conservation status of the endemic Pritchardia palms of Hawaii

Abstract

The conservation status of 23 Hawaiian endemic palms, Pritchardia spp., is reviewed. Field survey reports, recovery plans, herbaria holdings and observations have been utilized to assess each taxon's current range and status. Eleven species are categorized as Critically Endangered, nine Endangered, two Vulnerable and one as Data Deficient when subject to the IUCN Red List criteria. Conservation management options are discussed. A large proportion of this genus is on the verge of extinction and will continue to decline in the wild without active conservation management. Recommendations involving long-term management include maintaining and protecting the existing wild populations, establishment of effective ex situ populations, reintroduction into the wild, and the establishment of procedures to deal with invasive plants and animals.