A Common Understanding -Vocabulary
Endemic ('Apa'akuma) -evolved here in Hawaii and can only be found here, or on only one island, or in a special place on one island. Of the 1,000 native plants here in Hawaii, nearly 89 percent are endemic.
Indigenous (Oiwi) - arrived here in Hawaii by wind, wings, or water. Also called native. These organisms did not evolve into unique or different species and can be found elsewhere in the world. Oiwi plants represent 11 percent of our native species. Our indigenous plants have counterparts through Polynesia and can be found throughout the south Pacific. Many native plants are mentioned in the Kumulipo.
Invasive - Invaders, organisms that are introduced to an area and take over, out compete native organisms. Ants are invasive.
Polynesian introduced (Polenesia) - are sometimes called 'canoe plants.' These plants were introduced to Hawaii aboard double hulled canoes as early as 300 A.D. There are 24-36 canoe plants identified in oral history and remains.
