Kalaupapa National Historical Park vascular plant inventory, voucher collections, and electronic herbarium

Abstract

Kalaupapa National Historical Park (KALA) includes spectacular geologic and biotic features including sea cliffs, a conic volcanic crater, lava tubes and caves, lush valleys and rain forests, off-shore islands, and coral reefs. These areas also provide habitat for endangered Hawaiian plants and animals. Collections of the flora of this region have been made periodically by various individuals or organizations. From these studies, it is known that there are many rare species present within the park boundaries. However, no comprehensive survey has been made that thoroughly investigated these lands. The purpose of this project was to inventory the flora of Kalaupapa National Historical Park; create a permanent and usable herbarium in the form of physical vouchers and high resolution digital photographs for current and future park service staff, residents, and visitors; and duplicate a set of physical collections for the Bishop Museum in Honolulu for long-term archiving.