Federal Register / Vol. 75, No. 115 / Wednesday, June 16, 2010 / Proposed Rules 34077

14620; telephone number: (202) 554– DEPARTMENT OF THE INTERIOR ADDRESSES: You may submit 1404; e-mail address: TSCA- information by one of the following [email protected]. Fish and Wildlife Service methods: • Federal eRulemaking Portal: http:// SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: This 50 CFR Part 17 www.regulations.gov. In the box that document extends the public comment reads ‘‘Enter Keyword or ID,’’ enter the [Docket No. FWS-R1-ES-2010–0012] period established in the Federal Docket number for this finding, which Register of April 7, 2010 (75 FR 17645) [MO 92210-0-0008-B2] is FWS-R1-ES-2010-0012. Check the box (FRL–8811–7). In that document, EPA ‘‘ Endangered and Threatened Wildlife that reads Open for Comment/ ’’ seeks information about the use and Plants; 90-Day Finding on Five Submission, and then click the Search authorizations for PCBs. EPA is hereby Petitions to List Seven Species of button. You should then see an icon that ‘‘ ’’ extending the comment period, which Hawaiian Yellow-faced Bees as reads Submit a Comment. Please was set to end on July 6, 2010, to August Endangered ensure that you have found the correct 20, 2010. rulemaking before submitting your comment. The additional meeting in New York, AGENCY: Fish and Wildlife Service, • U.S. mail or hand-delivery: Public NY will be held in the evening at the Interior. Comments Processing, Attn: FWS-R1- request of New York City parents who ACTION: Notice of 90–day petition finding and initiation of status review. ES-2010-0012; Division of Policy and would like to attend to comment on our Directives Management; U.S. Fish and request for comments on the excluded SUMMARY: We, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service; 4401 N. Fairfax Drive, products provisions, e.g., caulk, of the Wildlife Service (Service), announce a Suite 222; Arlington, VA 22203. current PCB regulations. The additional 90–day finding on five petitions to list FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: meeting in San Francisco, CA will be seven species of Hawaiian yellow-faced Loyal Mehrhoff, Field Supervisor, held to accommodate West Coast bees (Hylaeus anthracinus, H. Pacific Islands Fish and Wildlife Office, stakeholders. In San Francisco, the assimulans, H. facilis, H. hilaris, H. 300 Ala Moana Boulevard, Room 3-122, meeting attendees will need photo kuakea, H. longiceps, and H. mana) as Honolulu, HI 96850; by telephone (808– identification. endangered and designate critical 792–9400); or by facsimile (808–792– You may submit a request to habitat under the Endangered Species 9581). Persons who use a participate in the public meeting as a Act of 1973, as amended (Act). telecommunications device for the deaf speaker or observer either in person or We find that the petitions present (TTD) may call the Federal Information as an observer only by teleconference. substantial scientific or commercial Relay Service (FIRS) at 800–877–8339. Do not submit any information in your information indicating that listing these SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: request to participate that is considered seven species of Hawaiian yellow-faced bees may be warranted. Therefore, with Request for Information Confidential Business Information (CBI). the publication of this notice we are When we make a finding that a To access the docket, please follow initiating a status review of these petition presents substantial the detailed instructions as provided species and will issue 12–month information indicating that listing a under ADDRESSES in the April 7, 2010 findings on our determination as to species may be warranted, we are Federal Register document. If you have whether the petitioned actions are required to promptly review the status questions, consult the technical person warranted. To ensure that the status of the species (status review). For the listed under FOR FURTHER INFORMATION reviews are comprehensive, we are status review to be complete and based CONTACT. soliciting scientific and commercial data on the best available scientific and and other information regarding these commercial information, we request List of Subjects in 40 CFR Part 761 species. We will make a determination information on the seven species of on critical habitat for these species if, Hawaiian yellow-faced bees (H. Environmental protection, Hazardous and when, we initiate a listing action. anthracinus, H. assimulans, H. facilis, substances, Labeling, Polychlorinated DATES: To allow us adequate time to H. hilaris, H. kuakea, H. longiceps, and biphenyls (PCBs), Reporting and conduct this review, we request that H. mana) from governmental agencies, recordkeeping requirements. information you submit be received by Native American Tribes, the scientific us on or before August 16, 2010. Please Dated: June 9, 2010. community, industry, or any other note that if you are using the Federal interested parties. We seek information Stephen A. Owens, eRulemaking Portal (see ‘‘ADDRESSES’’ on: Assistant Administrator, Office of Chemical section, below), the deadline for (1) The species’ biology, range, and Safety and Pollution Prevention. submitting an electronic comment is population trends, including: [FR Doc. 2010–14522 Filed 6–15–10; 8:45 am] Eastern Standard Time on this date. (a) Habitat requirements for feeding, BILLING CODE 6560–50–S We will post all information received breeding, and sheltering; on http://www.regulations.gov. This (b) Genetics and taxonomy; generally means that we will post any (c) Historical and current range personal information you provide us including distribution patterns; (see the Request for Information section (d) Historical and current population below for more details). levels, and current and projected trends; After August 16, 2010, you must and submit information directly to the Field (e) Past and ongoing conservation Office (see FOR FURTHER INFORMATION measures for the species, its habitat or CONTACT section below). Please note that both. we might not be able to address or (2) Information about the seven incorporate information that we receive Hawaiian yellow-faced bees relevant to after the above requested date. the factors that are the basis for making

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a listing determination for a species in making a determination, as section Society (hereafter, ‘‘the petitioner’’). The under section 4(a) of the Act (16 U.S.C. 4(b)(1)(A) of the Act (16 U.S.C. 1531 et petitioner requested that we list seven 1531 et seq.), which are: seq.) directs that determinations as to species of Hawaiian yellow-faced bees (a) The present or threatened whether any species is a threatened or as endangered and that critical habitat destruction, modification, or endangered species must be made be designated under the Act. The curtailment of the species’ habitat or ‘‘solely on the basis of the best scientific petitions were clearly identified as range; and commercial data available.’’ petitions and included the requisite (b) Overutilization for commercial, You may submit your information identification of addresses and recreational, scientific, or educational concerning this status review by one of telephone numbers, but did not include purposes; the methods listed in the ADDRESSES the signature of the petitioner, as (c) Disease or predation; section. If you submit information via stipulated in 50 CFR 424.14(a). (d) The inadequacy of existing http://www.regulations.gov, your entire Nevertheless, we recognize the five regulatory mechanisms; or submission—including any personal documents as petitions. Each petition (e) Other natural or manmade factors identifying information—will be posted affecting its continued existence. contained information regarding the on the website. If your submission is species’ taxonomy and ecology, (3) Whether insect collecting presents made via a hardcopy that includes historical and current distribution, a threat to any of the seven Hawaiian personal identifying information, you present status, and potential causes of yellow-faced bee species. may request at the top of your document decline and current and potential (4) The potential cumulative effects of that we withhold this personal imminent threats. these factors that may threaten or identifying information from public endanger the seven Hawaiian yellow- review. However, we cannot guarantee On May 8, 2009, we sent a letter to the faced bee species. that we will be able to do so. We will petitioner acknowledging our receipt of (5) Management programs for the post all hardcopy submissions on http:// the petitions and explaining that we conservation of the seven Hawaiian www.regulations.gov. reviewed the information presented in yellow-faced bee species. Information and materials we receive, the petition and determined that issuing (6) The potential effects of climate as well as supporting documentation we an emergency regulation temporarily change on the seven Hawaiian yellow- used in preparing this finding, is listing the species under section 4(b)(7) faced bee species and their habitat. available for you to review at http:// of the Act was not warranted at that If, after the status reviews, we www.regulations.gov, or you may make time. This notice constitutes our 90–day determine that listing any of the seven an appointment during normal business finding for the petitions to list seven Hawaiian yellow-faced bees is hours at the Pacific Islands Fish and species of Hawaiian yellow-faced bees warranted, we will propose critical Wildlife Office (see FOR FURTHER (Hylaeus anthracinus, H. assimulans, H. habitat (see definition in section 3(5)(A) INFORMATION CONTACT). facilis, H. hilaris, H. kuakea, H. of the Act) under section 4 of the Act, longiceps, and H. mana). to the maximum extent prudent and Background determinable at the time we propose to Section 4(b)(3)(A) of the Act (16 Species Information list the species. Therefore, with regard U.S.C. 1533(b)(3)(A)) requires that we Taxonomy and Description of Hylaeus to areas within the geographical range make a finding on whether a petition to currently occupied by these species, we list, delist, or reclassify a species The seven species of bees described in also request data and information on presents substantial scientific or the petitions belong to the genus what may constitute physical or commercial information to indicate that Hylaeus. Hylaeus is a large, globally biological features essential to the the petitioned action may be warranted. distributed genus comprised of over 500 conservation of these species; where We are to base this finding on species worldwide. In the Hawaiian these features are currently found; and information provided in the petition, Islands, the genus Hylaeus is whether any of these features may supporting information submitted with widespread and very diverse, with 60 require special management the petition, and information otherwise native species, including 20 that are considerations or protection. In available in our files. To the maximum endemic to single islands (Magnacca addition, we request data and extent practicable, we are to make this 2007, p. 174). All 60 Hawaiian species information regarding whether there are finding within 90 days of our receipt of are in the subgenus Nesoprosopis areas outside the geographical area the petition and publish our notice of (Magnacca and Danforth 2006, p. 393). occupied by these species that are this finding promptly in the Federal The Hylaeus genus belongs to the essential to the conservation of these Register. Colletidae family of bees, also known as seven species. Please provide specific Our standard for substantial scientific plasterer bees due to their habit of lining comments and information as to what, or commercial information within the their nests with salival secretions. if any, critical habitat you think we Code of Federal Regulations (CFR) with should propose for designation if these regard to a 90–day petition finding is The species of Hylaeus are commonly species are proposed for listing, and ‘‘that amount of information that would known as yellow-faced bees or masked why such habitat meets the lead a reasonable person to believe that bees for their yellow-to-white facial requirements of section 4 of the Act. the measure proposed in the petition markings. All of the Hylaeus species Please include sufficient information may be warranted’’ (50 CFR 424.14(b)). roughly resemble small wasps in with your submission (such as scientific If we find that substantial scientific or appearance, due to their slender bodies journal articles or other publications) to commercial information was presented, and their seeming lack of setae (sensory allow us to verify any scientific or we are required to promptly conduct a hairs). However, Hylaeus bees have commercial information you include. species status review, which we plumose (branched) hairs on the body Please note that submissions merely subsequently summarize in our 12– that are longest on the sides of the stating support for or opposition to the month finding. thorax. To a discerning eye, it is these action under consideration without We received five petitions dated plumose setae that readily distinguish providing supporting information, March 23, 2009, from Scott Hoffman them from wasps (Michener 2000, p. although noted, will not be considered Black, Executive Director of the Xerces 55).

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Life History of Hylaeus species changes with elevation. In that species on Kauai (Daly and Magnacca Nests of Hylaeus species are usually study, eight flowering plants were 2003, p. 53). observed at six sites, which ranged in constructed opportunistically within Life History dead twigs or plant stems, or other elevation from 880 to 2400 meters (m) (2,887 to 7874 feet (ft)). The study also The diet of the larval stage of Hylaeus similarly small natural cavities under anthracinus is unknown, although the bark or rocks. This is unlike the nests of found that the proportion of native pollinators changed along the elevation larvae are presumed to feed on stores of many other bee species, which are pollen and nectar collected and purposefully excavated or constructed gradient; at least 40 to 50 percent of visits were from alien pollinators at low deposited in the nest by the adult underground. Like other Hylaeus, female. Likewise, the nesting habits of Hawaiian Hylaeus also lack strong elevation, as opposed to 4 to 20 percent of visits by alien pollinators at mid to H. anthracinus are not known, but the mandibles and other adaptations for species is thought to nest within the digging and often use nest burrows high elevations. Hylaeus bees were less abundant at lower elevations, and there stems of coastal shrubs (Magnacca abandoned by other insect species (Daly 2005a, p. 2). and Magnacca 2003, p. 9). The adult were lower visitation rates of any pollinators to native plants at lower Hylaeus anthracinus adults have been male and female bees feed upon flower observed visiting the flowers of nectar for nourishment. Many species, elevations, which suggests that Hylaeus may not be easily replaceable by Sesbania tomentosa (oahi), Scaevola including the Hawaiian Hylaeus, lack an sericea (naupaka kahakai), Sida fallax external structure for carrying pollen, nonnative pollinators (Sahli et al., 2008, p. 1). Because Hylaeus species are likely (ilima), Argemone glauca (pua kala), called a scopa, and instead internally Chamaesyce celastroides (akoko), transport collected pollen, often mixed critical pollinators of one or more native Hawaiian plant species, it is believed Chamaesyce degeneri (akoko), with nectar, within their crop (stomach). Heliotropium anomalum (hinahina), that their decline or eventual extinction Hawaiian Hylaeus species are grouped and Myoporum sandwicense (naio). may negatively impact dependent native within two categories: Ground-nesting This species has also been collected plant species (Hopper et al. 1996, p. 8; species that require relatively dry from inside the fruit capsule of Kadua Cox and Elmqvist 2000, p. 1238). conditions and wood-nesting species coriacea (kioele) (Magnacca 2005a, p. 2). which are found within wetter areas Taxonomy and Description of Each Hylaeus anthracinus has also been (Zimmerman 1972, p. 533; Daly and Petitioned Hylaeus Species observed visiting Tournefortia argentea Magnacca 2003, p. 11). (tree heliotrope), a tree native to tropical The female Hylaeus bee lays eggs in Unless clearly stated that the Asia, Madagascar, tropical Australia, brood cells that she constructs in the information is from our files, all and Polynesia, for nectar and pollen nest and lines with a self-secreted information, statements, and references (Wagner et al. 1999, p. 398; Daly and cellophane-like material. Prior to sealing cited regarding the taxonomy, Magnacca 2003, p. 55; Magnacca 2007a, the nest, the female provides her young descriptions, life history, and range and p. 181). The species was first collected with a mass of semiliquid nectar and distribution are based on information on Oahu in 1864-1865, and is pollen that is left alongside her eggs. submitted in the petitions. naturalized and documented from all of Upon hatching, the grub-like larvae eat Hylaeus anthracinus the main islands except Kahoolawe the provisions left for them, pupate, and (Wagner et al. p. 398). It is described as eventually emerge as adults (Michener Taxonomy introduced by Magnacca (2007, p. 181). 2000, p. 24). Hylaeus anthracinus commonly occurs The role of bees as pollinators Hylaeus anthracinus was first alongside other Hylaeus species, maintaining communities of native flora described as Prosopis anthracina by including H. longiceps and H. flavipes. in a diversity of habitats is widely Smith in 1873 (Daly and Magnacca recognized (Cane and Tepedino 2001, p. 2003, p. 55), and transferred to Range and Distribution 1; Kremen et al. 2007, pp. 302, 307; Nesoprosopis 20 years later (Perkins Hylaeus anthracinus was historically National Research Council 2007, p. 13). 1899, pp. 75), and then Nesoprosopis known from numerous coastal strand Recent studies of visitation records of was reduced to a subgenus of Hylaeus and lowland dry forest locations up to Hawaiian Hylaeus bees to native flowers in 1923 (Meade-Waldo 1923, p. 1). 2,000 feet (ft) (610 meters (m)) in (Daly and Magnacca 2003, p. 11) and Although the distinctness of this species elevation on the islands of Hawaii, pollination studies of native plants is unquestioned, recent genetic evidence Lanai, Maui, Molokai, and Oahu. (Sakai et al. 1995, pp. 2524–2528; Cox (Magnacca and Brown, submitted) According to the petition, between 1997 and Elmqvist 2000, p. 1,238; Sahli et al. suggests that H. anthracinus may be and 2008, surveys for Hawaiian Hylaeus 2008, p. 1) have demonstrated that composed of three cryptic (not were conducted at 43 sites throughout Hawaiian Hylaeus species almost recognized) species which represent the the Hawaiian Islands that were either exclusively visit native plants to collect populations on Hawaii; Maui and historic collecting localities for H. nectar and pollen and, in the process, Kahoolawe; and Molokai and Oahu. anthracinus, or potentially suitable pollinate these plants. Hylaeus bees are Description habitat for this species. Hylaeus very rarely found visiting nonnative anthracinus was observed at 14 of the plants for nectar and pollen (Magnacca Hylaeus anthracinus is a medium- 43 survey sites, but had disappeared 2007, pp. 186, 188), and are almost sized black bee with clear to smoky from each of the 9 historically occupied completely absent from habitats wings and black legs. The male has a sites that were surveyed (petition p. 7). dominated by nonnative plant species single large yellow spot on his face, Several of the historical collection sites, (Daly and Magnacca 2003, p. 11). Sahli while below the antennal sockets the such as Honolulu and Waikiki on Oahu, et al. (2008, p. 1) quantified pollinator face is yellow. The female is entirely and Kealakekua Bay on Hawaii, no visitation rates to all of the flowering black and can be distinguished by the longer contain Hylaeus habitat, which plant species in communities on a black hairs on the end of the abdomen has been replaced by urban Hawaiian lava flow dating from 1855 to and an unusual mandible that has three development or is dominated by understand how pollination webs and teeth, a characteristic that is shared only nonnative vegetation (Liebherr and the integration of native and alien with H. flavifrons, a closely related Polhemus 1997, pp. 346–347; Daly and

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Magnacca 2003, p. 55; Magnacca 2007, Lipochaeta lobata (nehe) and Sida fallax Hylaeus facilis pp. 186–188). (ilima), this species’ likely primary host Hylaeus anthracinus is currently plant (Xerces 2009b, p. 10). Hylaeus Taxonomy restricted to small populations in a few assimulans appears to be closely According to the petitioner, Hylaeus small patches of coastal and lowland associated with plants in the genus facilis is a member of the H. difficilis dry habitat (Magnacca 2005a, p. 2); one Sida, and the petitioner suggests this species group, and is closely related to location on Kahoolawe; five locations yellow-faced bee species may be more H. chlorostictus and H. simplex. on the island of Hawaii, two locations common where this plant is abundant Hylaeus facilis was first described as on Maui, three locations on Molokai, (Daly and Magnacca 2003, pp. 58, 217; Prosopis facilis by Smith in 1879 (Daly and two locations on Oahu (Xerces Magnacca 2007, p. 183). The petition and Magnacca, p. 80), based on a 2009a, pp. 9-10). The petition does not contains information indicating that in specimen erroneously reported from define the context applied to the term recent collections, H. assimulans seems Maui. According to Blackburn and ‘‘small,’’ and we have no additional to be more common in dry forest at Cameron (1886 and 1887), the species’ information in our files. Accordingly, relatively higher elevations, and is less type locality was Pauoa Valley on Oahu we are presenting the population often found in coastal strand habitat. (Daly and Magnacca 2003, p. 80). The information as characterized by the The petition states that the frequency of species was later transferred to the petitioner. The 2004 H. anthracinus H. assimulans observations in higher, genus Nesoprosopis (Perkins 1899, pp. collection on the island of Hawaii dry forest may be related to the 75, 77). Nesoprosopis was subsequently occurred in montane dry forest abundance of Sida in the understory reduced to a subgenus of Hylaeus (Magnacca 2005a, p. 2). Although it was (Magnacca 2005b, p. 2). The petitioner (Meade-Waldo 1923, p. 1). The species previously unknown from the island of also states that it is likely that H. was most recently recognized by Daly Kahoolawe, H. anthracinus was assimulans visits several other native and Magnacca (2003, p. 80) as Hylaeus observed at one location on the island plants, including Acacia koa (koa), facilis. in 2002 (Daly and Magnacca 2003, p. Metrosideros polymorpha (ohia), 55). According to the petition, it is Styphelia tameiameiae (pukiawe), and Description believed to be extirpated from Lanai species of Scaevola (naupaka) and (Daly and Magnacca 2003, p. 55). Chamaesyce (akoko), which are Hylaeus facilis is a medium-sized bee with smoky colored wings. The male Hylaeus assimulans frequented by other Hylaeus species as well. has an oval yellow mark on its face that Taxonomy covers the entire clypeus (lower face Range and Distribution Hylaeus assimulans was first region), and a narrow stripe beside the described as Nesoprosopis assimulans Historically, Hylaeus assimulans was eyes, but is otherwise unmarked. The (Perkins 1899, pp. 75, 101–102), and known from numerous coastal strand large, externally visible gonoforceps then Nesoprosopis was reduced to a and lowland dry locations up to 2,000 (paired lateral outer parts of the male subgenus of Hylaeus in 1923 (Meade- ft (610 m) in elevation on the islands of genitalia) distinguish H. facilis from the Waldo 1923, p. 1). The species was most Lanai, Maui, and Oahu. Although there closely related H. simplex (Daly and recently described as Hylaeus are no collections from Molokai, the Magnacca 2003, p. 83). The female is assimulans by Daly and Magnacca in petition states that H. assimulans also entirely black, and indistinguishable 2003 (pp. 55–56). occurred there because all other species from females of H. difficilis and H. of Hylaeus known from Maui, Lanai, simplex (Daly and Magnacca 2003, pp. Description and Oahu also occurred on Molokai 81–82). Hylaeus assimulans is distinguished (Xerces 2009b, p. 6). Between 1997 and Life History by its large size relative to other coastal 2008, surveys for Hawaiian Hylaeus were conducted in 25 sites on Oahu, Hylaeus species and slightly smoky to The diet of the larval stage of Hylaeus Maui, Kahoolawe, Lanai, and Molokai. smoky-colored wings. The male is black facilis is unknown, although the larvae Hylaeus assimulans was absent from six with yellow face marks, with an almost are presumed to feed on stores of pollen of its historic localities on Oahu, Maui, entirely yellow clypeus (lower face and nectar collected and deposited in and Lanai (Xerces 2009b, pp. 6-7). region) with additional marks on the the nest by the adult female. The nesting Hylaeus assimulans was not observed at sides that narrow dorsally (towards the habits of H. facilis have not been 19 other sites with potentially suitable top). The male also has brown observed, but the species is thought to appressed (flattened) hairs on the tip of habitat on Oahu, Maui, Lanai, and Molokai, including several sites from nest underground as do the closely the abdomen. The female is entirely related species H. chlorostictus and H. black, large-bodied, and has no distinct which other native Hylaeus species have been recently collected (Daly and simplex (Daly and Magnacca 2003, p. punctuation on the abdomen (Daly and 83; Magnacca 2005c, p. 2). Magnacca 2003, p. 56). Magnacca 2003, p. 56; Xerces 2009b, p. 7). According to the petition, the native Life History Currently, Hylaeus assimulans is host plants of adult Hylaeus facilis are The diet of the larval stage of Hylaeus found in a few small patches of coastal unknown, but it is likely that this assimulans is unknown, although the and lowland dry habitat at two locations species visits several plants that other larvae are presumed to feed on stores of on Lanai, two locations on Maui, and Hylaeus species are known to frequent, pollen and nectar collected and one location on Kahoolawe (Daly and including Acacia koa (koa), deposited in the nest by the female Magnacca 2003, p. 58; Magnacca 2005, Metrosideros polymorpha (ohia), adult (Xerces 2009b, p. 11). Likewise, p. 2). According to the petition, this Styphelia tameiameiae (pukiawe), the nesting habits of H. assimulans are species has likely been extirpated from Scaevola spp. (naupaka), and not known, but the species is thought to Oahu since it was absent from the Chamaesyce spp. (akoko). Hylaeus nest underground, as do other closely island’s best extant coastal strand facilis has also been observed visiting related species (Magnacca 2005b, p. 2). habitat at Kaena Point (Kaena Point the nonnative Tourneforia argentea (tree Hylaeus assimulans adults have been Natural Area Reserve (NAR)) (Magnacca heliotrope) for nectar and pollen observed visiting the flowers of 2005, p. 2). (Magnacca 2007, p. 181).

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Range and Distribution Description smaller than its host species (Xerces 2009d, p. 9). Hylaeus facilis was historically Hylaeus hilaris is distinguished by its known from Lanai, Maui, Molokai, and large size (male wing length is 0.185 Range and Distribution Oahu, in dry shrubland to wet forest, inches (in) (4.7 millimeters (mm)) Hylaeus hilaris was historically from coastal to montane habitat up to relative to other coastal Hylaeus species. known from coastal strand habitat on 3,281 ft (1,000 m) in elevation (Gagne The wings of this species are slightly the islands of Lanai, Maui, and Molokai. and Cuddihy 1999, p. 93; Daly and smoky to smoky colored, and it is the The petitioner states that it is believed Magnacca 2003, pp. 81, 83). Perkins most colorful of the Hawaiian Hyaleus to have occurred along much of the (1899, p. 77) remarked that H. facilis species. The face of the male is almost coast of these islands since its primary was among the most common and entirely yellow, with yellow markings hosts, H. anthracinus, H. assimulans, widespread Hylaeus species on Oahu on the legs and thorax, and the and H. longiceps, likely extended and all of Maui Nui (Lanai, Molokai, metasoma (middle portion of the throughout this habitat. According to and Maui) (Magnacca 2007, p. 183). The abdomen) are usually predominantly the petition, nearly all of the coastal petitioner contends that although the red. Females are drably colored, with strand habitat has been either developed species was widely collected within a various brownish markings. As with or degraded, and is no longer suitable diverse range of habitats, it probably other cleptoparasitic (see ‘‘Life History’’ for H. hilaris (Liebherr and Polhemus prefers dry to mesic forest and below) species, H. hilaris lacks the 1997, pp. 346–347; Magnacca 2007, pp. shrubland (Magnacca 2005c, p. 2), specialized pollen-sweeping hairs of the 186–188). Hylaeus hilaris was absent which are increasingly rare and patchily front legs (Daly and Magnacca 2003, pp. from three of its historical population distributed habitats (Smith 1985, pp. 9, 106). It is also one of only two sites revisited by researchers between 227–233; Juvik and Juvik 1998, p. 124; Hawaiian Hyaleus species to possess 1998 and 2006. It was also not observed Wagner et al. 1999, pp. 66-67, 75; apical (at the end or tip of a structure) at 10 additional sites with potentially Magnacca 2005c, p. 2). bands of fine white hairs on the suitable habitat where other native The petition states that Hylaeus facilis segments of the metasoma. Hylaeus species have been recently collected (Daly and Magnacca 2003, pp. has almost entirely disappeared from Life History most of its historical range (Daly and 103, 106). Magnacca 2003, p. 7; Magnacca 2007, p. Most adult Hawaiian Hylaeus species The petitioner states that this species 183), and the abundance of specimens consume nectar for energy; however, has been collected only twice in the last in the collections at the Bishop Museum Hylaeus hilaris has yet to be observed 70 years, but acknowledges a gap of in Honolulu demonstrates the historic actually feeding from flowers. Hylaeus about 70 years between major collecting prevalence of this species in a diverse hilaris and the four species related to it efforts (Xerces 2009d, p. 6). Hylaeus array of habitats and elevations (H. hostilis, H. inquilina, H. hilaris has recently been collected on (Magnacca 2007, p. 183). Between 1998 sphecodoides, and H. volatilis) are two occasions; once in 1989 and again and 2006, 39 sites on Oahu, Maui, known as cleptoparasites or cuckoo in 1999. The species was absent from Lanai, and Molokai were surveyed; H. bees. The mated female does not each of its historical localities that were facilis was absent from each of the 13 construct a nest or collect pollen, but revisited between 1998 and 2006 historical localities that were revisited instead enters the nest of another (Xerces 2009d, p. 6). Currently, the only (Magnacca 2007, p. 183). Hylaeus facilis species and lays an egg in a partially known population of H. hilaris is was not observed at 26 other sites with provisioned cell. Upon emerging, the located on The Nature Conservancy’s potentially suitable habitat, including cleptoparasitic larva kills the host egg Moomomi Preserve on Molokai (Daly many sites from which other native and consumes the provisions, pupates, and Magnacca 2003, pp. 103, 106; Hylaeus species have been recently and eventually emerges as an adult. As Magnacca 2005d, p. 2). According to the collected (Daly and Magnacca 2003, pp. a result of this lifestyle shift, H. hilaris petition, it is no longer extant on Lanai 7, 81–82; Magnacca 2007, p. 183). bees have lost the pollen-collecting (Xerces 2009d, p. 6). Currently, Hylaeus facilis is only hairs that other species possess on the Hylaeus kuakea known from three sites, one each on the front legs. Cleptoparasitism is actually Taxonomy and Description islands of Maui, Molokai, and Oahu quite common among bees: (Daly and Magnacca 2003, pp. 81–82; approximately 25 percent of known bee Hylaeus kuakea was first described by Magnacca 2005c, p. 2). According to the species have evolved to become Daly and Magnacca (2003, pp. 1, 125– petitioner, this species is likely cleptoparasites. Among the world’s 127) from specimens collected in 1997 extirpated from Lanai (Xerces 2009c, p. bees, other than the Hawaiian Hylaeus in the Waianae Mountains on Oahu. 7). group, no cleptoparasites are known Hylaeus kuakea is a small, black bee from the family Colletidae (Daly and with slightly smoky colored wings. This Hylaeus hilaris Magnacca 2003, p. 9). The larvae of H. species does not fit into any of the well- Taxonomy hilaris and their diet are unknown defined Hylaeus species groups. Its (Magnacca 2005d, p. 2); however, the facial marks are similar to those of the Hylaeus hilaris was first described as species is known to lay its eggs within H. difficilis group and to H. anthracinus, Prosopis hilaris by Smith in 1879 (Daly the nests of H. anthracinus, H. but it can be distinguished by its and Magnacca 2003, pp. 103–104), assimulans, and H. longiceps (Perkins unusual ivory facial marking covering transferred to the genus Nesoprosopis 1913, p. lxxxi). Although the species has the clypeus (the lower face region). 20 years later (Perkins 1899, pp. 75), never been observed at flowers, H. Hylaeus kuakea also resembles H. and then Nesoprosopis was reduced to hilaris adults presumably consume anthracinus, but has a denser, more a subgenus of Hylaeus in 1923 (Meade- nectar as a food source (Xerces 2009 d, distinct arrangement of setae (sensory Waldo 1923, p. 1). In 2003, Daly and p. 9). Hylaeus hilaris depends on a hairs) on the head and generally Magnacca described the species as number of related Hylaeus host species narrower marks next to the compound Hylaeus hilaris (Daly and Magnacca for its parasitic larvae, and its eyes (Daly and Magnacca 2003, p. 125; 2003, pp. 103–104). population size is inherently much Magnacca 2005e, p. 2). Only two adult

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male specimens have been collected; Description p. 2). The petitioner states that most of females have yet to be collected or Hylaeus longiceps is a small to the habitat in these areas has been either observed. medium-sized, black bee with clear to developed or degraded and is no longer suitable for H. longiceps (Liebherr and Life History slightly smoky colored wings. Its distinguishing characteristics are its Polhemus 1997, pp. 346–347; Magnacca The diet of the larval stage of Hylaeus long head and the facial marks of the 2007, pp. 186–188). kuakea is unknown, although the larvae male. The lower face of the male is Hylaeus longiceps is now restricted to are presumed to feed on stores of pollen marked with a yellow band that extends small populations in small patches of and nectar collected and deposited in at the sides of the face in a broad stripe coastal and lowland habitat on Lanai, the nest by the adult female (Xerces above the antennal sockets. The area Maui, Molokai, and Oahu (Magnacca 2009e, p. 7). The nesting habits of H. above the clypeus (lower face region) is 2005f, p. 2). Twenty-five sites that were kuakea have not been observed, but the very long and narrow, and the scape either historic collecting localities for H. species is believed to be related to other (the first antennal segment) is noticeably longiceps or contained potentially wood-nesting Hawaiian Hylaeus species twice as long as it is wide. The female suitable habitat for this species were (Magnacca and Danforth 2006, p. 403). is entirely black and unmarked (Daly surveyed between 1997 and 2008. According to information in the and Magnacca 2003, p. 133). Hylaeus longiceps was observed at only petition, the native host plants of the six of the surveyed sites: three sites on adult Hylaeus kuakea are unknown, but Life History Lanai, one site on Maui, one site on it is likely that this species visits several The diet of the larval stage of Hylaeus Molokai, and one site on Oahu. Only plants that other Hylaeus species are longiceps is unknown, although the one historic location, Waieu Dune on known to frequent, including Acacia larvae are presumed to feed on stores of Maui, still supports a population of H. koa, Metrosideros polymorpha, pollen and nectar collected and longiceps (Daly and Magnacca 2003, p. Styphelia tameiameiae, Scaevola spp., deposited in the nest by the female 135). and Chamaesyce spp. (Magnacca 2005e, adult (Xerces 2009a, p. 15). The nesting Hylaeus mana p. 2). habits of H. longiceps are unknown, but the species is thought to nest Taxonomy and Description Range and Distribution underground, as in other closely related Hylaeus mana was first described by Hylaeus kuakea is only known from species (Magnacca 2005f, p. 2). Daly and Magnacca (2003, pp. 135–136) two collections made in Moho Gulch Hylaeus longiceps adults have been from four specimens collected in 2002 Ridge, at the northern end of Honouliuli observed visiting the flowers of a wide on the leeward side of the Koolau Preserve, at an elevation of about 1,900 variety of plants, including Scaevola Mountains on Oahu. This species is an ft (579 m) in the Waianae Mountains on coriacea (dwarf naupaka), Sida fallax, extremely small, gracile (gracefully Oahu. Hylaeus kuakea is found in Scaevola spp. (naupaka kahakai), slender) black bee with yellow markings lowland mesic forest, which is Sesbania tomentosa (ohai), Myoposum on the face. The smallest of all Hawaiian increasingly rare and patchily sandwicense (naio), Santalum Hylaeus species, H. mana is a member distributed on Oahu (Smith 1985, pp. ellipticum (iliahialoe, coast of the dumetorum species group. The 227–233; Juvik and Juvik 1998, p. 124; sandalwood), Chamaesyce degeneri face of the male is largely yellow below Wagner et al. 1999, pp. 66–67, 75). (akoko), and Vitex rotundifolia the antennae, extending dorsally in a According to the petitioner, although (pohinahina) (Xerces 2009a, p. 14). The narrowing stripe. The female’s face has there is potentially suitable lowland petitioner reports that it is likely that H. three yellow lines, one against each eye, mesic habitat in Honouliuli Preserve, no longiceps visits several plant species and a transverse stripe at the apex of the other individuals of Hylaeus kuakea that other Hylaeus species are known to clypeus (lower face region). The were found in surveys subsequent to the frequently visit, including Scaevola female’s other markings are the same as type collection in 1997 (Magnacca 2007, spp., Chamaesyce spp., Tournefortia the male’s (Daly and Magnacca 2003, p. p. 184). In addition, Perkins did not argentea, Jacquemontia ovata (pau o 135). Hylaeus mana can be collect this species in surveys in the hiiaka), and Sida fallax (Magnacca distinguished from H. mimicus and H. Honouliuli Preserve vicinity or in 2005f, p. 2). specularis, with whom its range overlaps, by its extremely small size, the nearby areas in 1899, 1910, and 1911 Range and Distribution (Xerces 2009e, p. 6). The petitioner shape of the male’s genitalia, the therefore concludes that the extreme Hylaeus longiceps is historically female’s extensive facial marks, and a rarity of this species, its absence from known from numerous coastal strand transverse rather than longitudinal nearby sites, and the fact that it was not and lowland dry shrubland locations up clypeal marking (Daly and Magnacca discovered until very recently suggest to 2,000 ft (610 m) in elevation on the 2003, p. 138). islands of Lanai, Maui, Molokai, and that very few populations remain Life History (Magnacca 2005e, p. 2). Oahu. The species is primarily known from coastal habitat, but is infrequently The diet of the larval stage of Hylaeus Hylaeus longiceps collected in dry shrubland. Hylaeus mana is unknown, although the larvae Taxonomy longiceps is rarely observed in higher are presumed to feed on stores of pollen elevation dry forests. Perkins (1899, p. and nectar collected and deposited in Hylaeus longiceps was first described 98) noted that H. longiceps was locally the nest by the adult female (Xerces in 1899 as Nesoprosopis longiceps abundant, and probably occurred 2009e, p. 7). The nesting habits of H. (Perkins 1899, pp. 75, 98), and then historically throughout much of the mana are not well known, but it is Nesoprosopis was reduced to a leeward and lowland areas on Maui Nui assumed the species is closely related to subgenus of Hylaeus in 1923 (Meade- (Maui, Molokai, Lanai, and Kahoolawe) other wood-nesting Hawaiian Hylaeus Waldo 1923, p. 1). Daly and Magnacca and Oahu, since its host plants, Sida species (Magnacca and Danforth 2006, (2003, pp. 133–134) most recently fallax, Chamaesyce spp., Scaevola spp., p. 403). described the species as Hylaeus and Jaquemontia ovata, occurred Adult specimens of Hylaeus mana longiceps. throughout these areas (Magnacca 2005f, were collected while they visited

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flowers of Santalum freycinetianum var. existence. In making this 90–day the estimated loss of more than 90 freycinetianum (iliahi, sandalwood), a finding, we evaluated whether percent of dry forests and shrublands native Hawaiian plant found only on information on threats to the seven (Bruegmann 1996, p. 26; Juvik and Juvik Oahu and Molokai (Wagner et al. 1999, Hawaiian Hylaeus bee species presented 1998, p. 124). Four species (Hylaeus p. 1221). The petitioner asserts that it is in the petitions and available in our files anthracinus, H. assimulans, H. facilis, likely that H. mana visits several other at the time of the review of the petitions and H. longiceps) were once widespread native plant species, including Acacia constitute substantial scientific or and found within lowland dry habitat koa, Metrosideros polymorpha, commercial information such that on several islands, including Hawaii, Styphelia tameiameiae, Scaevola spp., listing the species may be warranted. Lanai, Maui, Molokai, and Oahu, but are and Chamaesyce spp. (Magnacca 2005g, Our evaluation of this information is largely absent from their historical p. 2). discussed below. Unless clearly stated population sites on these islands. that the information is from our files, all Mesic forest, once abundant and Range and Distribution threats described below and their effects considered the most diverse of all Hylaeus mana is only known from on the seven Hawaiian Hylaeus bee Hawaiian forest types (Rock 1913, p. 9), lowland mesic forest located along the species are based on information is now very rare, with much of it Manana Trail in the Koolau Mountains submitted in the petitions. Any converted to pasture, or military or on Oahu, at an elevation of about 1,400 references provided in support of agricultural use, or lost to urbanization ft (427 m). Few Hylaeus bees have been particular statements related to potential (Cuddihy and Stone 1990, p. 61; found in this type of koa-dominated, threats are the petitioner’s references, Magnacca 2007, p. 187). Fire has also lowland mesic forest on Oahu (Daly and unless specifically identified otherwise. negatively impacted this habitat type, as Magnacca 2003, p. 138). This type of is discussed below. Hylaeus facilis was forest is increasingly rare and patchily A. Present or Threatened Destruction, historically the most wide ranging of the distributed on Oahu (Smith 1985, pp. Modification, or Curtailment of the seven bee species in terms of the variety 227–233; Juvik and Juvik 1998, p. 124; Species’ Habitat or Range of habitats from which it was recorded, Wagner et al. 1999, pp. 66–67, 75). According to the petitions, which included mesic forest on Lanai, According to the petition, because the degradation and loss of coastal and Maui, Molokai, and Oahu. This species first collection of Hylaeus mana was lowland habitat used by Hylaeus bees is now restricted to single locations on made in 2002, the historic range and on all of the main Hawaiian Islands is the islands of Molokai and Oahu. current distribution, other than the the primary threat to these seven species The petitioner identified the loss of collection on Manana Trail, are (Cuddihy and Stone 1990, pp. 60–61; coastal, dry lowland, and montane wet unknown at this time (Magnacca 2005g, Daly and Magnacca 2003, pp. 55, 173). forest habitat on Oahu, Lanai, Maui, and p. 2). This species was not found in Coastal and lowland habitats have been Molokai as a contributing factor to the surveys of potentially suitable habitat in severely altered and degraded, partly decline of H. facilis, but acknowledges the same general area by Perkins in because of past and present land that ‘‘although recorded from several 1899, 1910, and 1911 (Xerces 2009e, p. management practices, including sites currently considered to be wet 6). The petitioner therefore concludes agriculture, grazing, and urban forest, it is possible that H. facilis would that the extreme rarity of this species, its development; the deliberate and not normally inhabit this [habitat] in a absence from nearby sites, and the fact accidental introductions of nonnative natural state.’’ The petitioner attributes that it was not discovered until very animals and plants; and recreational the current observation of this species at recently suggest that very few activities. In addition, the petitions sites now known to be wetter than they populations remain (Magnacca 2005g, p. present information indicating that fire were during the early Perkins’ collecting 2). is a potential threat to the habitat of period to the more open understory We accept the characterization of the these seven species in some locations. vegetation (Perkins 1899, p. 76). It is seven species of Hawaiian yellow-faced conceivable that the loss of mesic forest Habitat Destruction and Modification by bees (Hylaeus anthracinus, H. habitat used by H. kuakea is due to assimulans, H. facilis, H. hilaris, H. Urbanization and Land Use Conversion urbanization and land use conversion, kuakea, H. longiceps, and H. mana) as Increased access to coastal areas, and although the petitioner presents no described in the information provided resulting habitat disturbance, has been information in this regard, nor do we by the petitioner. facilitated by coastal development and have information in our files regarding roadbuilding (Cuddihy and Stone 1990, the historical locations of these two Factors Affecting the Species pp. 94–95). As described in the species, both of which were only Section 4 of the Act (16 U.S.C. 1533), petitions, five species (Hylaeus recently collected (H. kuakea in 1997; and its implementing regulations at 50 anthracinus, H. assimulans, H. facilis, H. mana in 2002). CFR 424, set forth procedures for adding H. hilaris, and H. longiceps) were once species to the Federal Lists of widespread and common in coastal Habitat Destruction and Modification by Endangered and Threatened Wildlife strand habitat (Perkins 1912, p. 688). Nonnative Plants and Plants. A species may be These five Hylaeus species are now The petitioner states that the spread of determined to be an endangered or absent from all of Perkins’ coastal nonnative plant species is one of the threatened species due to one or more collection localities. Hylaeus facilis has primary causes of decline, and a current of the five factors described in section recently been collected in coastal threat to the existing populations of 4(a)(1) of the Act: (A) The present or habitat at Kuololimu Point, and H. each of the seven Hylaeus bee species, threatened destruction, modification, or hilaris has recently been collected in because they depend closely on native curtailment of its habitat or range; (B) coastal habitat at Moomomi Preserve, vegetation for nectar and pollen, and the overutilization for commercial, Molokai (Xerces 2009c, p. 9). bees are almost entirely absent from recreational, scientific, or educational The petitioner states that lowland dry habitat dominated by invasive, purposes; (C) disease or predation; (D) forests and shrublands have been nonnative vegetation (Sakai et al. 2002, the inadequacy of existing regulatory heavily impacted by urbanization and pp. 276, 291; Daly and Magnacca 2003, mechanisms; or (E) other natural or conversion to agriculture or pasture p. 11; Liebherr 2005, p. 186). According manmade factors affecting its continued throughout the Hawaiian Islands, with to information available in our files and

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presented by the petitioner, the native p. 145; Daly and Magnacca 2003, pp. 55, place of, and permanently replace, flora within a majority of lowland 135). In addition, H. anthracinus has native plant species (Cuddihy and habitat on the Hawaiian Islands below been collected from inside the fruit Stone, pp. 88–94; Smith and Tunison 1,969 ft (600 m) is being replaced by capsule of Kadua coriacea (kioele), a 1992, pp. 394–395; D’Antonio et al. aggressive, nonnative plant species federally endangered dry forest plant, 2000, pp. 73–74). This process has been (Cuddihy and Stone 1990, pp. 73–74; known from fewer than 300 individuals facilitated by nonnative ungulates, Wagner et al. 1999, p. 52). The on the island of Hawaii (USFWS 2008, which alter the floral composition of petitioner states that many native plant p. 5; Christian Torres, USFWS, pers. native habitats, making conditions more species that are replaced by nonnative comm. 2009). conducive to fire. This impact occurs plants were once foraging resources for because of the browsing and trampling Habitat Destruction and Modification by numerous Hylaeus species (Cox and of native vegetation, and the spreading Nonnative Ungulates Elmqvist 2000, p. 1238; Daly and of seeds of nonnative, fire-adapted plant Magnacca 2003, p. 11; USFWS 1999, pp. The petitioner claims that the decline species such as Melinis minutiflora 145, 163, 171, 180; USFWS 2008, pp. 7, of native plant communities has likely (molasses grass) and Schizachyrium 9). Six of the seven Hylaeus bee species had a negative impact on Hawaii’s condensatum (tufted beardgrass) (Hylaeus anthracinus, H. assimulans, H. Hylaeus bee species (Cuddihy and Stone (D’Antonio et al. 2000, pp. 73–74). facilis, H. kuakea, H. longiceps, and H. 1990, pp. 59–66, 88–94, 73–76; USFWS Habitat Destruction and Modification by mana) are most often found in dry and 2006, p. 2684). The presence of Recreational Activities mesic forest and shrubland habitat (Daly nonnative mammals, such as feral pigs and Magnacca 2003, p. 11), and the (Sus scrofa), cattle (Bos taurus), goats The petitions state that some of the greatest proportion of endangered or at- (Capra hircus), and axis deer (Axis best habitat areas for Hylaeus species risk Hawaiian plant species are also axis), is considered one of the primary are also popular recreational sites, limited to these same habitats; 25 factors underlying the alteration and particularly those areas located within percent of Hawaiian listed plant species degradation of native vegetation and coastal strand habitat (Xerces 2009a, p. are from dry forest and shrubland alone habitat in the Hawaiian Islands (Stone 27; 2009c, p. 22). Human impacts at (Sakai et al. 2002, pp. 276, 291, 292). 1985, pp. 262–263; Cuddihy and Stone recreational sites may include removal The petitioner asserts that lowland dry 1990, pp. 60–66; 73 FR 73801). Beyond or trampling of vegetation on or near and mesic forests now support less- the direct effects of trampling and trails and the compaction of vegetation diverse Hylaeus communities because consuming native plants, nonnative by off-road vehicles (Xerces 2009a, p. many native plants used for foraging are ungulates contribute significantly to 27; 2009c, p. 22). In particular, the extirpated from these habitats increased erosion, and their behavior petitioner claims that Hylaeus facilis (Magnacca 2007, pp. 186–187). (i.e., rooting, moving across large habitat may be threatened by The petitioner states that besides expanses) facilitates the spread and recreational activities, such as hunting Scaevola sericea (naupaka kahakai), establishment of competing, invasive, and hiking on the Poamoho Trail on native vegetation is lacking along most nonnative plant species (Xerces 2009a, Oahu (Hawaii Department of Land and of the coastline of the major Hawaiian p. 26; 2009b, p. 18; 2009c, pp. 21–22, Natural Resources 2000, p. 15; Xerces Islands, and that Hylaeus bees cannot 2009d, pp. 12–13, 2009e, p. 10). Several 2009c, p. 22). According to the survive on this plant alone (Magnacca endangered coastal and lowland plant petitions, some of the best remaining 2007, p. 187). The petitioner also states species that are threatened by the habitat for H. anthracinus and H. that native coastal vegetation in many browsing, trampling, and digging longiceps includes Kaena Point (on areas, such as Moomomi Preserve on activities of nonnative ungulates are Oahu), Kona Coast State Park, Molokai, which currently is the only confirmed foraging sources for Hylaeus Makalawena, Mokuauia, and South known location for Hylaeus hilaris, is species and, therefore, are likely Point (on the island of Hawaii), areas threatened by Prosopis pallida (kiawe), foraging sources for these seven Hylaeus that are popular recreational sites with an invasive, nonnative, deciduous species (USFWS 1999, pp. 145, 163, largely unregulated access (Xerces thorny tree (Xerces 2009a, p. 25; 2009b, 171, 180; Daly and Magnacca 2003, pp. 2009a, p. 27). 11, 13). p. 17; 2009c, p. 21; 2009d, p. 11). Habitat Destruction and Modification by According to the petitions, many of Habitat Destruction and Modification by Climate Change the native plants that serve as foraging Fire resources for the adults of the seven The petitioner asserts that a changing Hylaeus bee species are declining due to The petitions state that fire can climate may cause shifts in the range of a lack of pollinators (Daly and Magnacca dramatically alter the species Hylaeus host plant species, which can 2003, p. 11; USFWS 2008, pp. 7, 9) and composition of plant communities in be especially detrimental to dependent are found only in very small coastal and lowland habitats (Hughes et pollinators like these seven species populations (USFWS 1999, pp. 145, al. 1991, p. 743; Blackmore and when combined with habitat loss 163, 171, 180; Cox and Elmqvist 2000, Vitousek 2000, p. 625), and thus (National Research Council 2007, p. p. 1238). The petitioner points out, for potentially impact Hylaeus populations. 102). Most bees have difficulty crossing example, that H. longiceps and H. The petitioner also suggests that large geographical barriers (Michener anthracinus are known to forage on the ordnance-induced fires on the Army’s 2000, p. 103), and successive federally endangered plant Sesbania Pohakuloa Training Area on the island generations of solitary species like tomentosa (ohai). Both H. longiceps and of Hawaii may threaten the dry forest Hylaeus tend to nest in the same area H. anthracinus also visit Chamaesyce habitat of Hylaeus anthracinus. Fires year after year. The petitioner points out celastroides var. kaenana (akoko), a were uncommon in the Hawaiian that the seven Hylaeus bee species are federally endangered plant endemic to Islands until the arrival of humans restricted to habitat patches where coastal dry shrubland on Oahu (Daly about 2,000 years ago (Smith and native host plant species are present, and Magnacca 2003, pp. 55, 74). Tunison 1992, pp. 394–395). Native and argues that they are not likely to Hylaeus longiceps is also known to habitat in the Hawaiian Islands has been disperse far to find new habitat (Xerces forage on the endangered Scaevola increasingly colonized by fire-adapted 2009a, p. 30; 2009b, p. 21; 2009c, p. 25; coriacea (dwarf naupaka) (USFWS 1999, invasive plant species that take the 2009d, p. 14; 2009e, p. 13). Thus, the

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ecology of these seven species, activities of nonnative ungulates, which Predation by Nonnative Ants combined with the patchy distribution facilitates the establishment of Ants are known to prey upon Hylaeus of their remaining habitat, may hinder nonnative plants in disturbed areas; species (Medeiros et al. 1986, pp. 45–46; their dispersal if relocation becomes conversion by fire of native plant Reimer 1994, p. 17), thereby directly necessary due to climate-influenced communities to plant communities eliminating them from specific areas. changes in distribution of host plant dominated by nonnative, fire-adapted The petitions state that ants are not a species (Magnacca 2007, pp. 173, 181– plants; and the removal or trampling of natural component of Hawaii’s 183, 188) and cause the extirpation of native vegetation by people and arthropod fauna, and the native species remaining populations of Hylaeus compaction of native vegetation by off- of the islands evolved in the absence of anthracinus, H. assimulans, H. facilis, road vehicles in popular recreational predation pressure from ants. They also H. hilaris, H. kuakea, H. longiceps, and areas, particularly in coastal strand state that ants can be particularly H. mana. habitat. Information in our files also destructive predators because of their The petitioner states that climate indicates these factors may present a high densities, recruitment behavior, change may also have a deleterious threat to the seven species of Hylaeus. aggressiveness, and broad range of diet effect upon the seven Hylaeus bee We, therefore, conclude the petitions (Reimer 1993, pp. 17–18). The petitions species due to climate-induced changes present substantial information to also state that the threat of ant predation in rainfall patterns, since these species indicate that the present or threatened prefer relatively dry habitats, some of on the seven Hylaeus bee species is destruction or modification of habitat amplified by the fact that most ant which lack groundwater sources. The may present a threat to H. anthracinus, petitioner presents a concern that a species have winged reproductive H. assimulans, H. facilis, H. hilaris, H. adults (Borror et al. 1989, p. 738) and predicted rise in sea level in the kuakea, H. longiceps, and H. mana. Hawaiian Islands (Baker et al. 2006, p. can quickly establish new colonies in 1) might threaten coastal strand B. Overutilization for Commercial, suitable habitats (Staples and Cowie populations of the seven Hylaeus bee Recreational, Scientific, or Educational 2001, p. 55). In addition, the petitions species. The petitions cite one study Purposes state that these attributes allow some that predicted that sea level rise in the ants to destroy otherwise geographically According to the petitioner, Hylaeus isolated populations of native Northwestern Hawaiian Islands will facilis, H. hilaris, H. kuakea, and H. cause a median projected loss of land of arthropods (Nafus 1993, pp. 19, 22–23). mana, each with two or fewer known According to the petitions, at least 47 3 to 65 percent with a 19-in (48-cm) sea populations, are especially vulnerable to level rise, and a maximum projected species of ants are known to be overcollection because the collection of established in the Hawaiian Islands loss of land of 5 to 75 percent with a 35- even a few individuals could in (88-cm) sea level rise (Baker et al. (Hawaii Ants 2008, pp. 1–11). Native significantly reduce the production of insect fauna, likely including Hylaeus 2006, p. 1). Although none of the seven offspring (Xerces 2009c, p. 23; 2009d, p. Hylaeus bees occurs on the bees (Zimmerman 1948, p. 173; Reimer 13; 2009e, p. 11). However, the petitions et al. 1990, pp. 40–43; HEAR database Northwestern Hawaiian Islands, the also acknowledge that because of the petitioner concludes that sea level rise 2005, pp. 1–2), have been severely high fecundity of individual insects, the will also impact the populations of the impacted by at least four particularly collection of insects does not pose a five species of Hawaiian yellow-faced aggressive ant species: The big-headed threat to their populations (Xerces bees (Hylaeus anthracinus, H. ant (Pheidole megacephala), the long- 2009c, p. 23; 2009d, p. 11; 2009e, p. 11), assimulans, H. facilis, H. hilaris, and H. legged ant (also known as the yellow which introduces an element of longiceps) inhabiting coastal sites on the crazy ant) (Anoplolepis gracilipes), uncertainty concerning this claim. main Hawaiian Islands. Solenopsis papuana (no common Insect collecting is a valuable name), and Solenopsis geminata (no Summary of Factor A component of research, including common name). The petitions state that In summary, we find that the taxonomic work, and is often necessary numerous other species of ants are information provided in the petitions for documenting the existence of recognized as threats to Hawaii’s native presents substantial scientific or populations and population trends. The invertebrates, and an unknown number commercial information indicating that petitioner has not presented information of new species of ants are established the petitioned actions may be warranted with which we can evaluate whether the every few years (Staples and Cowie due to the present or threatened overcollection of Hylaeus facilis, H. 2001, p. 53). The petitions state that due destruction, modification, or hilaris, H. kuakea, or H. mana may to their preference for drier habitat sites, curtailment of the species’ habitat or present a threat to any of these species, ants are more likely to occur in high range. The petitioner has provided no or determine whether this activity has densities in the dry and mesic habitat information, and we have no resulted in population declines. In this currently occupied by the seven bees information in our files to substantiate regard, neither the petitions, nor (Xerces 2009a, p. 28; 2009b, p. 19; the claim that there will be climate- information available in our files, 2009c, p. 24; 2009d, pp. 13–14; 2009e, induced changes in rainfall patterns in presents information that would pp. 11–12). the areas where the seven species occur, indicate overcollection may present a The petitions state that the long- or that relatively dry habitats will be significant threat to H. anthracinus, H. legged ant appeared in Hawaii in 1952; negatively impacted. The petitions did assimulans, H. facilis, H. hilaris, H. now occurs on Kauai, Oahu, Maui, and identify numerous potential factors that kuakea, H. longiceps, or H. mana. Hawaii (Reimer et al. 1990, p. 42); and may be affecting Hylaeus anthracinus, inhabits low-to-mid-elevation (less than C. Disease or predation H. assimulans, H. facilis, H. hilaris, H. 2,000-ft (600-m)) rocky areas of kuakea, H. longiceps, and H. mana, Neither the petitions nor information moderate rainfall (less than 100 in (250 including habitat loss and degradation in our files presents information that cm) annually) (Reimer et al. 1990, p. due to urbanization and land would indicate disease is a current 42). The petitioner also states that direct conversion; replacement of native host threat to Hylaeus anthracinus, H. observations indicate that Hawaiian plants by nonnative plants caused by assimulans, H. facilis, H. hilaris, H. arthropods are susceptible to predation the browsing, trampling, and rooting kuakea, H. longiceps, or H. mana. by this species; Gillespie and Reimer

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(1993, p. 21) and Hardy (1979, p. 34) easily accessible, and in or near the compete for nectar with Hylaeus documented the impacts to native ground. Since Hylaeus anthracinus, H. species, but the petitions provide no insects within the Kipahulu area on facilis, H. hilaris, and H. longiceps are information indicating that competition Maui after this area was invaded by the related to other ground-nesting Hylaeus for nectar is a threat. long-legged ant. The petitioner species, they may also be susceptible to Predation by Nonnative Parasitoid concludes that although only cursory ant predation (Magnacca 2005g, p. 2). Wasps observations exist, long-legged ants are The rarity or disappearance of native thought to be a threat to populations of Hylaeus species, including the seven The petitions state that native and the seven Hylaeus bees within dry to petitioned Hawaiian yellow-faced bee nonnative parasitoid wasps parasitize mesic areas within their elevation range species, from historically documented some Oahu Hylaeus species and may (Reimer et al. 1990, p. 42). localities over the past 100 years is pose a threat to H. kuakea and H. mana Solenopsis papuana is the only likely due to a variety of factors. There (Xerces 2009e, p. 12). The petitions also abundant, aggressive ant that has is no information that conclusively state that Hylaeus larvae are known to invaded intact mesic to wet forest from correlates the decrease in Hylaeus be attacked by parasitoid wasps within sea level to over 2,000 ft (600 m) on all observations with the establishment of the Encyrtidae and Eupelmidae families, of the main Hawaiian Islands, and is nonnative ants in low-to-montane and although it is unconfirmed whether still expanding its range (Reimer 1993, dry-to-wet habitats on the Hawaiian parasitoid wasps utilize H. kuakea and p. 14). The petitions state that because Islands; however, their collective H. mana as nutritional hosts for their of this species’ expanding range, it may presence suggests that nonnative ants larvae (Xerces 2009e, p. 12). However, threaten populations of Hylaeus facilis may have played a role in the decline the petitions did not provide any in mesic areas up to 2,000 ft (600 m) in of some populations of the seven evidence, and we have nothing in our elevation (Reimer 1993, p. 14). Hylaeus bee species evaluated in this files, to support these claims. The petitions state that the presence finding. Summary of Factor C of ants in nearly all of the low-elevation habitat sites historically and currently Predation by Nonnative Western Overall, the petitions provided occupied by the seven Hylaeus bee Yellowjacket Wasps substantial scientific or commercial species may increase the uncertainty of The petitioner suggests that Vespula information indicating that the Hylaeus recovery within these areas. pensylvanica (the western yellowjacket petitioned actions may be warranted Hylaeus populations are known to be wasp) is a potentially serious threat to due to disease or predation. Neither the drastically reduced in ant-infested areas the seven Hylaeus bees. This assertion petitions, nor information available in (Medeiros et al. 1986, pp. 45–46; Stone is supported by literature available in our files, present data that would and Loope 1987, p. 251; Cole et al. 1992, our files (Gambino et al. 1987, p. 170; indicate that predation by parasitoid pp. 1313, 1317, 1320; Reimer 1994, p. Wilson et al. 2009, pp. 1–5). The wasps presents a threat to any of the 17). Although ant species’ primary western yellowjacket wasp is a social Hylaeus species addressed in this impact on the native invertebrate fauna wasp species native to the mainland of finding. Although the petitions suggest is via predation (Reimer 1994, p. 17), North America. It was first reported that the western yellowjacket wasp may they also compete for nectar (Howarth from Oahu in the 1930s (Sherley 2000, compete for nectar with Hylaeus 1985, p. 155; Hopper et al. 1996, p. 9; p. 121), and an aggressive race became species, no information was presented Holway et al. 2002, pp. 188, 209; Daly established in 1977 (Gambino et al. that would allow us to evaluate whether and Magnacca 2003, p. 9; Lach 2008, p. 1987, p. 170). In temperate climates, the this presents a significant threat to any 155) and nest sites (Krushelnycky et al. western yellowjacket wasp has an of the petitioned species. However, 2005, pp. 6–7). Some ant species may annual life cycle, but in Hawaii’s observations and reports have impact Hylaeus species indirectly as tropical climate, colonies of this species documented that ants are particularly well, by predating on seeds of native persist through a second year, allowing destructive predators because of their plants (Bond and Slingsby 1984, p. them to have larger numbers of high densities, broad range of diet, and 1031). The petitioner suggests that the individuals (Gambino et al. 1987, p. ability to establish new colonies in greatest ecosystem-level effect of 170) and thus a greater impact on prey otherwise geographically isolated invasive ants has been on pollination. populations. Most colonies are found locations, because the reproductive Additionally, where ranges overlap, ants between 1,969 and 3,445 ft (600 and adults are able to fly (Xerces 2009a, pp. compete with native pollinators such as 1,050 m) in elevation (Gambino et al. 27–28; 2009b, pp. 19–20; 2009c, p. 23; Hylaeus species and preclude them 1990, p. 1,088), although they can also 2009d, pp. 13–14, 2009e, p. 11). In from pollinating native plants. For occur at sea level. The western addition, the western yellowjacket wasp example, the big-headed ant is known to yellowjacket wasp is known to be an has been documented to prey upon actively rob nectar from flowers without aggressive, generalist predator (Gambino Hawaiian Hylaeus species (Xerces pollinating them (Howarth 1985, p. et al. 1987, p. 170), and has been 2009a, p. 29; 2009b, p 20; 2009c, p. 24; 157). Lach (2008, p. 155) found that documented preying upon Hawaiian 2009d, pp. 14–15, 2009e, pp. 12–13). Hylaeus species that regularly collect Hylaeus species (Wilson et al. 2009, p. Accordingly, we conclude the petitions pollen from flowers of Metrosideros 2). The petitioner argues that predation present substantial information polymorpha were entirely absent from by the western yellowjacket wasp is a indicating that Hylaeus anthracinus, H. trees that had their flowers exposed to potentially significant threat to Hylaeus assimulans, H. facilis, H. hilaris, H. big-headed ant foraging. anthracinus, H. assimulans, H. facilis, kuakea, H. longiceps, and H. mana may The Hylaeus egg, larvae, and pupal H. hilaris, H. kuakea, H. longiceps, and be threatened because of predation by stages are more vulnerable to attack by H. mana because of their small nonnative ants and the nonnative ants than the mobile adult bee (Daly and population sizes. This may present a western yellowjacket wasp. Magnacca 2003, p. 10). Invasive ants particular threat to H. facilis, H. hilaris, have severely impacted ground-nesting H. kuakea, and H. mana because each D. The Inadequacy of Existing Hylaeus species in particular (Cole et al. species has two or fewer populations. Regulatory Mechanisms 1992, pp. 1317, 1320; Medeiros et al. The petitions also suggest that the The petitioner stated that there are no 1986, pp. 45–46), because their nests are western yellowjacket wasp may existing Federal, State, or local laws,

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treaties, or regulations that specifically existing regulatory mechanisms for be very rare and potentially endangered, conserve or protect habitat for the seven protecting the seven species of and 10 have not been collected recently Hylaeus bee species. The petitioner does Hawaiian yellow-faced bees and their and could be extinct (Magnacca 2007, p. acknowledge that some historic and habitats during our status review. 3). The petitioner asserts that Hylaeus current collection localities are facilis, H. hilaris, H. kuakea, and H. E. Other Natural or Manmade Factors protected from development by Federal mana have not been recently observed Affecting the Species’ Continued or State agencies; one of two known at some historical collection sites, and Existence populations of H. facilis occurs at that each of these species now has two Kalaupapa National Historical Park on Small Number of Populations and or fewer known populations, which Molokai, and three species (H. Individuals could increase the risk of extinction due anthracinus, H. hilaris, and H. Species that are endemic to single to stochastic events such as hurricanes, longiceps) occur at the State’s Kaena islands or known from few, widely landslides, large wildfires, or prolonged Point Natural Area Reserve (NAR) on dispersed locations are inherently more drought (Jones et al. 1984, p. 209; Smith Oahu, Kanaio NAR on Maui, or The vulnerable to extinction than and Tunison 1992, p. 398; Petition p. Nature Conservancy’s Moomomi widespread species because of the 13). Since H. hilaris is cleptoparasitic Preserve on Molokai. The petitioner higher risks from genetic bottlenecks, and restricted to one known remaining asserts that conservation of the seven random demographic fluctuations, population, it is at particularly high risk of extinction because of the rarity of its Hylaeus bees will likely require active climate change, and localized hosts and the fact that it is the most management of their known population catastrophes such as hurricanes, habitat-specific of all Hawaiian bees sites, involving exclusion and removal landslides, and drought (Lande 1988, p. (Daly and Magnacca 2003). The of feral ungulates, control and removal 1455; Mangel and Tier 1994, p. 607; recurrence intervals for stochastic of nonnative plant and insect species, Pimm et al. 1988, p. 757). These events of this nature have not been and the restoration of native vegetation problems can be further magnified when explicitly defined, which introduces (Magnacca 2007, p. 185). The petitions populations are few and restricted to a some uncertainty regarding potential state that existing regulatory limited geographic area, and the number effects to the petitioned species. The mechanisms are inadequate to provide of individuals is very small. Populations the necessary active management fact that a species is potentially with these characteristics face an vulnerable to stochastic processes does needed to protect the seven Hylaeus increased likelihood of stochastic species (Xerces 2000a, p. 29; 2000b, p. not necessarily mean that it is extinction due to changes in reasonably likely to experience, or have 20; 2000c, p 24; 2000d, p. 15, 2000e, p. demography, the environment, genetics, 13). However, there was no specific its status affected by, a given stochastic or other factors, in a process described process within timescales that are information provided in the petitions as an extinction vortex (Gilpin and about existing regulatory mechanisms meaningful under the Act. Soule´ 1986, pp. 24–25). Small, isolated While we recognize the inherent that could protect these species. We are populations often exhibit a reduced also not aware of any regulatory species risks of small population size level of genetic variability or genetic and small numbers of individuals, we mechanisms that address the seven depression due to inbreeding, which Hylaeus species. currently lack information needed to diminishes the species’ capacity to assess this potential threat to the status The petitioners claim that there are no adapt and respond to environmental of the petitioned species. We will protections provided by existing State or changes, thereby lessening the investigate issues related to Hylaeus Federal regulations to effectively probability of long-term persistence population size and species address potential threats to the seven (Frankham 2003, pp. S22–S29; Soule´ susceptibility to catastrophic stochastic species of Hawaiian yellow-faced bees 1986, pp. 31–34). The negative impacts events during the status review in order (Xerces 2000a, p. 29; 2000b, p. 20; associated with small population size to better address this concern in the 12– 2000c, p 24; 2000d, p. 15; 2000e, p. 13). and vulnerability to random month finding. However, the petitioners did not demographic fluctuations or natural provide any additional information catastrophes can be further magnified by Competition with Nonnative Insects about existing regulatory mechanisms synergistic interactions with other There are 15 known species of that could protect these species, and we threats. nonnative bees in Hawaii (Snelling have nothing in our files that describes The petitioner states that all of the 2003, p. 342), including two nonnative any regulatory mechanisms that address petitioned Hylaeus bee species are rare, Hylaeus species (Magnacca 2007, p. the seven Hylaeus species. While have very small populations, and are 188). According to the petitioner, most information presented by the petitioner likely more vulnerable to habitat change nonnative bees inhabit areas dominated indicates that threats to the petitioned and stochastic events due to low genetic by nonnative vegetation and do not species may be posed by habitat variability (Daly and Magnacca 2003, p. compete with native Hawaiian bees destruction and degradation by 3; Magnacca 2007, p. 173, Petition p. (Daly and Magnacca 2003, p. 13). The nonnative ungulates and nonnative 13). Literature cited by the petitioner European honey bee (Apis mellifera) is plants and through predation by states that about three-quarters of the an exception; this social species is often nonnative insects, none of these threats species described from the Hawaiian very abundant in areas with native are posed by an inadequacy of Islands by Perkins (1899, 1910, 1911) vegetation and aggressively competes regulatory mechanisms. We, therefore, have been collected recently. Some are with Hylaeus for nectar and pollen find that the petitions do not present still as rare or as abundant as he (Hopper et al. 1996, p. 9; Daly and substantial information indicating that observed, yet others, formerly abundant, Magnacca 2003, p. 13; Snelling 2003, p. the inadequacy of existing regulatory have not been collected recently (Daly 345). The European honey bee was first mechanisms may present a threat to and Magnacca 2003, p. 3). Five species introduced to the Hawaiian Islands in Hylaeus anthracinus, H. assimulans, H. have not been collected recently from 1875, and currently inhabits areas from facilis, H. hilaris, H. kuakea, H. one or more islands from which they are sea level to tree line (Howarth 1985, p. longiceps, or H. mana. However, we historically known, 7 are restricted to 156). The petitioner reports that will further evaluate the adequacy of endangered habitat, 10 are considered to European honey bees have been

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observed foraging on Hylaeus host stochastic events such as droughts. Each 4(b)(3)(B) of the Act, as to whether or plants such as Scaevola spp. and of the petitions characterizes the not the Service believes a proposal to Sesbania tomentosa. However, the population status of the petitioned list Hylaeus anthracinus, H. assimulans, petitioner does not present information species as ‘‘small and isolated’’ or H. facilis, H. hilaris, H. kuakea, H. indicating that Hawaiian Hylaeus ‘‘extremely rare, very small longiceps, and H. mana is warranted. populations have declined because of populations,’’ and we do not have any The ‘‘substantial information’’ competition with European honey bees contrary information in our files. The standard for a 90–day finding differs for nectar and pollen (Magnacca 2007, petitioner also presents information from the Act’s ‘‘best scientific and p. 188). The petitioner asserts that indicating that competition with the commercial data’’ standard that applies populations of the European honey bee European honey bee may present a to a status review to determine whether are not as vulnerable to predation by threat to the seven Hylaeus bee species. a petitioned action is warranted. A 90– nonnative ant species as are Hylaeus We, therefore, conclude that the petition day finding does not constitute a status bees (see Factor C above). The petitioner presents substantial scientific review under the Act. In a 12–month refers to a study by Lach (2008, p. 155), information indicating that other natural finding, we will determine whether a who observed that although Hylaeus or manmade factors affecting the petitioned action is warranted after we bees that regularly collect pollen from species’ continued existence may have completed a thorough status the flowers of Metrosideros polymorpha threaten Hylaeus anthracinus, H. review of the species, which is trees were entirely absent from trees assimulans, H. facilis, H. hilaris, H. conducted following a substantial 90– whose flowers had been visited by the kuakea, H. longiceps, and H. mana. day finding. Because the Act’s standards big-headed ant, visits by the European These factors include the species’ small for 90–day and 12–month findings are honey bee were not affected by big- numbers of populations and individuals different, as described above, a headed ant presence. and competition with nonnative substantial 90–day finding does not As described by the petitioner, other European honey bees. mean that the 12–month finding will nonnative bees found in areas of native determine that listing is warranted. vegetation include Ceratina species Finding (carpenter bees), Hylaeus albonitens We have reviewed the petitions, References Cited (Australian colletid bees), and supporting information provided by the A complete list of all references cited Lasioglossum impavidum (no common petitioner, and information in our files, herein is available on the Internet at name) (Magnacca 2007, p. 188). The and we evaluated that information to http://www.regulations.govand upon petitioner suggests that these nonnative determine whether the sources cited request from the Pacific Islands Fish bees may impact native Hylaeus bees support the claims made in the and Wildlife Office (see FOR FURTHER such as H. facilis through competition petitions. On the basis of our evaluation INFORMATION CONTACT). for pollen, based on their similar size of the petition under section 4(b)(3)(A) and flower preferences. However, the of the Act, we have determined that the Author petitioner acknowledges that the impact petition presents substantial scientific The primary authors of this notice are of these species on native Hylaeus bees or commercial information indicating the staff of the Pacific Islands Fish and has not been studied (Magnacca 2007, p. that listing the seven Hylaeus bees as Wildlife Office (see FOR FURTHER 188). The petitioner also suggests that threatened or endangered may be INFORMATION CONTACT). parasitoid wasps may compete for warranted. This finding is based on nectar with native Hylaeus species (Daly information that indicates these species’ Authority and Magnacca 2003, p. 10), but did not continued existence may be affected by The authority for this action is the present supporting information in this destruction or modification of their Endangered Species Act of 1973, as regard. No information on the potential coastal strand and lowland forest and amended (16 U.S.C. 1531 et seq.). threat to the species from parasitoid shrubland habitat from urbanization and Dated: June 3, 2010. land conversion, nonnative plants, wasps is available in our files. Daniel M. Ashe, nonnative ungulates, fire, recreational Summary of Factor E activities (Factor A); predation by Acting Director, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. In summary, the petitions provided nonnative ants and the western substantial scientific or commercial yellowjacket wasp (Factor C); [FR Doc. 2010–14430 Filed 6–15–10; 8:45 am] information indicating that the inadequate protection from threats by BILLING CODE 4310–55–S petitioned actions may be warranted existing regulatory mechanisms (Factor due to other factors affecting the D); and other natural or manmade species’ continued existence. The factors such as small population size, DEPARTMENT OF COMMERCE petitioner did not present information, and competition with the European nor is information available in our files, honey bee (Factor E). The petitioner National Oceanic and Atmospheric indicating that competition from does not present substantial information Administration parasitoid wasps or other nonnative that these seven Hylaeus bees are bees, such as Ceratina species, Hylaeus threatened by overcollection (Factor B) 50 CFR Part 665 albonitens, and Lasioglossum currently or in the future. [Docket No. 0907211157–0224–02] impavidum, presents a threat to the Because we have found that the petitioned species. However, the petition presents substantial RIN 0648–AX76 petitions do present information information indicating that listing the Fisheries in the Western Pacific; indicating that Hylaeus anthracinus, H. seven Hylaeus bee species may be Community Development Program assimulans, H. facilis, H. hilaris, H. warranted, we are initiating status Process kuakea, H. longiceps, and H. mana may reviews to determine whether listing be threatened because of their very these seven species under the Act is AGENCY: National Marine Fisheries small populations and low genetic warranted. At the conclusion of the Service (NMFS), National Oceanic and variability, which may make them status reviews we will issue 12–month Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), vulnerable to habitat change and findings, in accordance with section Commerce.

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