Home / Environment / Island Jewel Fights Back From Brink of Extinction
Island Jewel Fights Back From Brink of Extinction
2 Oct
Summary
- Rare succulent nearly wiped out by invasive rabbits.
- Conservation efforts led to significant population recovery.
- New threats include mice, pelicans, and invasive grasses.
The Santa Barbara Island liveforever, a succulent unique to the Channel Islands, has demonstrated resilience after facing near extinction. Invasive rabbits, introduced to the island, decimated the native vegetation, pushing the plant towards oblivion. Conservationists initiated a large-scale rabbit eradication program, successfully removing the last rabbits by 1981.
Following the removal of rabbits, the plant's population began to rebound. Initial surveys in 1984 indicated a recovery, with subsequent counts showing substantial increases. By 2020, surveys recorded 2,353 plants, a notable rise from earlier figures, though its classification as endangered persists.
However, new threats have emerged, jeopardizing the plant's continued recovery. Native deer mice consume seeds and seedlings, and introduced species like iceplant and annual grasses increase competition and fire risk. Brown pelicans also pose a threat by damaging plant rosettes and altering soil conditions.
Conservationists are actively working to protect the Santa Barbara Island liveforever. Efforts include seed collection, cultivating seedlings in nurseries, and implementing protective measures for new plantings. Managing these ongoing pressures is crucial for the long-term survival of this unique island species.
