Vol. 80 Tuesday, No. 188 September 29, 2015

Part II

Department of the Interior

Fish and Wildlife Service 50 CFR Part 17 Endangered and Threatened Wildlife and Plants; Endangered Species Status for Chamaecrista Lineata Var. Keyensis (Big Pine Partridge Pea), Chamaesyce Deltoidea Ssp. Serpyllum (Wedge Spurge), and Linum Arenicola (Sand Flax), and Threatened Species Status for Argythamnia Blodgettii (Blodgett’s Silverbush); Proposed Rule

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DEPARTMENT OF THE INTERIOR MS: BPHC, 5275 Leesburg Pike, Falls blodgettii consist primarily of habitat Church, VA 22041–3803. loss and modification through urban Fish and Wildlife Service We request that you send comments and agricultural development, and lack only by the methods described above. of adequate fire management (Factor A); 50 CFR Part 17 We will post all comments on http:// and the proliferation of nonnative www.regulations.gov. This generally invasive plants, stochastic events [Docket No. FWS–R4–ES–2015–0137]; means that we will post any personal (hurricanes and storm surge), [4500030113] information you provide us (see Public maintenance practices used on Comments, below, for more roadsides and disturbed sites, and sea RIN 1018–AZ95 information). level rise (Factor E). Existing regulatory Endangered and Threatened Wildlife FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: mechanisms have not been adequate to and Plants; Endangered Species Larry Williams, State Supervisor, U.S. reduce or remove these threats (Factor Status for Chamaecrista lineata var. Fish and Wildlife Service, South Florida D). We will seek peer review. We will seek keyensis (Big Pine Partridge Pea), Ecological Services Field Office, 1339 comments from independent specialists Chamaesyce deltoidea ssp. serpyllum 20th Street, Vero Beach, FL 32960; by to ensure that our determinations are (Wedge Spurge), and Linum arenicola telephone 772–562–3909; or by based on scientifically sound data, (Sand Flax), and Threatened Species facsimile 772–562–4288. Persons who assumptions, and analyses. We will Status for Argythamnia blodgettii use a telecommunications device for the invite these peer reviewers to comment (Blodgett’s Silverbush) deaf (TDD) may call the Federal on this listing proposal. Information Relay Service (FIRS) at AGENCY: Fish and Wildlife Service, 800–877–8339. Information Requested Interior. SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: ACTION: Proposed rule. Public Comments Executive Summary We intend that any final action SUMMARY: We, the U.S. Fish and Why we need to publish a rule. Under resulting from this proposed rule will be Wildlife Service (Service or USFWS), the Act, if we determine that a species based on the best scientific and propose to list four plants from south is an endangered or threatened species commercial data available and be as Florida under the Endangered Species throughout all or a significant portion of accurate and as effective as possible. Act of 1973, as amended (Act): its range, we must publish a proposed Therefore, we request comments or Chamaecrista lineata var. keyensis (Big rule to list the species in the Federal information from other concerned Pine partridge pea), Chamaesyce Register and make a determination on governmental agencies, Native deltoidea ssp. serpyllum (wedge our proposal within 1 year. Listing a American tribes, the scientific spurge), and Linum arenicola (sand flax) species as an endangered or threatened community, industry, or any other as endangered species, and species can only be completed by interested parties concerning this Argythamnia blodgettii (Blodgett’s issuing a rule. proposed rule. We particularly seek silverbush) as a threatened species. If This rule proposes the listing of comments concerning: we finalize this rule as proposed, it Chamaecrista lineata var. keyensis, (1) The four plants’ biology, range, would extend the Act’s protections to Chamaesyce deltoidea ssp. serpyllum, and population trends, including: these plants. and Linum arenicola as endangered (a) Biological or ecological DATES: We will accept comments species, and Argythamnia blodgettii as a requirements of these plants, including received or postmarked on or before threatened species. The four plants are habitat requirements for establishment, November 30, 2015. Comments candidate species for which we have on growth, and reproduction; (b) Genetics and taxonomy; submitted electronically using the file sufficient information on biological Federal eRulemaking Portal (see (c) Historical and current ranges, vulnerability and threats to support including distribution patterns; ADDRESSES, below) must be received by preparation of a listing proposal, but for 11:59 p.m. Eastern Time on the closing (d) Historical and current population which development of a listing rule has levels, and current and projected trends; date. We must receive requests for until now been precluded by other public hearings, in writing, at the and higher priority listing activities. This (e) Past and ongoing conservation address shown in FOR FURTHER rule reassesses all available information measures for the plants, their habitats, INFORMATION CONTACT by November 13, regarding status of and threats to the or both. 2015. four plants. (2) Factors that may affect the ADDRESSES: You may submit comments The basis for our action. Under the continued existence of these plants, by one of the following methods: Act, we may determine that a species is which may include habitat modification (1) Electronically: Go to the Federal an endangered or threatened species or destruction, overutilization, disease, eRulemaking Portal: http:// based on any of five factors: (A) The predation, the inadequacy of existing www.regulations.gov. In the Search box, present or threatened destruction, regulatory mechanisms, or other natural enter FWS–R4–ES–2015–0137, which is modification, or curtailment of its or manmade factors. the docket number for this rulemaking. habitat or range; (B) overutilization for (3) Biological, commercial trade, or Then, in the Search panel on the left commercial, recreational, scientific, or other relevant data concerning any side of the screen, under the Document educational purposes; (C) disease or threats (or lack thereof) to these plants Type heading, click on the Proposed predation; (D) the inadequacy of and existing regulations that may be Rules link to locate this document. You existing regulatory mechanisms; or (E) addressing those threats. may submit a comment by clicking on other natural or manmade factors (4) Current or planned activities in the ‘‘Comment Now!’’ affecting its continued existence. We areas occupied by these plants and (2) By hard copy: Submit by U.S. mail have determined that the threats to possible impacts of these activities on or hand-delivery to: Public Comments Chamaecrista lineata var. keyensis, these plants. Processing, Attn: FWS–R4–ES–2015– Chamaesyce deltoidea ssp. serpyllum, (5) Additional information concerning 0137; U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, Linum arenicola, and Argythamnia the biological or ecological requirements

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of these plants, including pollination Federal Register and local newspapers On November 28, 1983, we published and pollinators. at least 15 days before the hearing. a document in the Federal Register (48 FR 53640) assigning a listing priority (6) Scientific information or analysis Peer Review informing whether these plants more number (LPN) to two of the four plant closely meet the definition of In accordance with our joint policy on species in accordance with our Listing endangered or of threatened under the peer review published in the Federal Priority Guidance (48 FR 43098; Act. Register on July 1, 1994 (59 FR 34270), September 21, 1983). Argythamnia Please include sufficient information we will seek the expert opinions of at blodgettii and Linum arenicola were with your submission (such as scientific least three appropriate and independent assigned an LPN of 2, which meant that journal articles or other publications) to specialists regarding this proposed rule. information that the Service possessed allow us to verify any scientific or The purpose of peer review is to ensure indicated that proposing to list as commercial information you include. that our listing determinations are based endangered or threatened was possibly Please note that submissions merely on scientifically sound data, appropriate but we lacked substantial stating support for or opposition to the assumptions, and analyses. The peer information on biological vulnerability action under consideration without reviewers have expertise in the biology, and threat(s) to support a proposed habitat, and conservation status of these providing supporting information, listing. plants, which will inform our although noted, will not be considered On September 27, 1985, we published determinations. We invite comment in making a determination, as section a document in the Federal Register (50 from the peer reviewers during the 4(b)(1)(A) of the Act (16 U.S.C. 1531 et FR 39526) assigning LPNs to all four of public comment period. seq.) directs that determinations as to the plant species in accordance with our whether any species is an endangered or Previous Federal Actions Listing Priority Guidance (48 FR 43098; threatened species must be made September 21, 1983). Argythamnia On January 9, 1975, as directed by the blodgettii and Linum arenicola both ‘‘solely on the basis of the best scientific Act, the Secretary for the Smithsonian and commercial data available.’’ retained an LPN of 2, which meant that Institution submitted a report to information that the Service possessed You may submit your comments and Congress on potential endangered and indicated that proposing to list as materials concerning this proposed rule threatened plant species of the United endangered or threatened was possibly by one of the methods listed in the States (Smithsonian 1975, entire). The appropriate but we lacked substantial ADDRESSES section. We request that you report identified more than 3,000 plant information on biological vulnerability send comments only by the methods species as potentially either endangered and threat(s) to support a proposed described in the ADDRESSES section. or threatened, including Argythamnia listing. Chamaecrista lineata var. If you submit information via http:// blodgettii, Chamaecrista lineata var. keyensis (under the former name Cassia www.regulations.gov, your entire keyensis (under the former name Cassia keyensis) and Chamaesyce deltoidea submission—including any personal keyensis), Chamaesyce deltoidea ssp. ssp. serpyllum (under the former name identifying information—will be posted serpyllum (under the name Chamaesyce Euphorbia deltoidea ssp. serpyllum) on the Web site. If your submission is (Euphorbia) deltoidea ssp. serpyllum), were both assigned an LPN of 1, which made via a hardcopy that includes and Linum arenicola (Smithsonian meant the Service had on file personal identifying information, you 1975, pp. 56, 58, 61, 81). On July 1, substantial information on biological may request at the top of your document 1975, we published in the Federal vulnerability and threat(s) to support that we withhold this information from Register (40 FR 27824) our notification the appropriateness of proposing to list public review. However, we cannot that we considered this report to be a as endangered or threatened. We guarantee that we will be able to do so. petition to list the identified plants as recognized at that time that any We will post all hardcopy submissions either endangered or threatened under proposed listing action may take ‘‘some on http://www.regulations.gov. the Act. The 1975 notice solicited years’’ because of the ‘‘large number of Comments and materials we receive, information from Federal and State taxa’’ at issue. as well as supporting documentation we agencies, and the public, on the status The 1990 candidate notice of review used in preparing this proposed rule, of the species. (CNOR) published in the Federal will be available for public inspection On December 15, 1980, we published Register on February 21, 1990 (55 FR on http://www.regulations.gov, or by in the Federal Register (45 FR 82480) 6184). In that CNOR, Argythamnia appointment, during normal business our notice of review of plant taxa for blodgettii and Linum arenicola both hours, at the U.S. Fish and Wildlife listing as endangered or threatened retained an LPN of 2, and Chamaecrista Service, South Florida Ecological species. In that document, Argythamnia lineata var. keyensis and Chamaesyce Services Field Office (see FOR FURTHER blodgettii, Chamaecrista lineata var. deltoidea ssp. serpyllum both retained INFORMATION CONTACT). keyensis (under the former name Cassia an LPN of 1. Candidate species are keyensis), Chamaesyce deltoidea ssp. Public Hearing assigned LPNs based on immediacy and serpyllum (under the former name magnitude of threats, as well as Section 4(b)(5) of the Act provides for Euphorbia deltoidea ssp. serpyllum), taxonomic status. The lower the LPN, one or more public hearings on this and Linum arenicola were identified as the higher priority that species is for us proposal, if requested. Requests must be Category 1 species (taxa for which we to determine appropriate action using received within 45 days after the date of had enough biological information to our available resources. We determined publication of this proposed rule in the support listing as either endangered or at that time that proposing to list was Federal Register. Such requests must be threatened). As a result, we considered warranted, but was precluded due to sent to the address shown in the FOR all four plants to be candidates for workloads and priorities. FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT section. addition to the Federal List of All four plants remained on the We will schedule public hearings on Endangered and Threatened Plants. The candidate list in the 1993 CNOR (58 FR this proposal, if any are requested, and 1980 notice solicited information from 51144; September 30, 1993), with announce the dates, times, and places of Federal and State agencies, and the Argythamnia blodgettii and Linum those hearings, as well as how to obtain public, on the status of the four plant arenicola both retaining an LPN of 2, reasonable accommodations, in the species. and Chamaecrista lineata var. keyensis

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and Chamaesyce deltoidea ssp. September 12, 2006; 72 FR 69034, has one to several branched stems serpyllum being assigned an LPN of 3C December 6, 2007; 73 FR 75176, arising from a contorted rootstock. New (taxa that have proven to be more December 10, 2008; 74 FR 57804, branches are covered in soft, fuzzy abundant or widespread than previously November 9, 2009; 75 FR 69222, hairs. The leaves are 1.7–4.0 cm (0.7–1.6 believed and/or those that are not November 10, 2010; 76 FR 66370, in) long, with 5 to 9 pairs of leaflets. subject to any identifiable threat). October 26, 2011; 77 FR 69994, Flowers consist of five sepals 9–20 mm The 1999 CNOR (64 FR 57534; November 21, 2012; 78 FR 70104, (0.4–0.8 in) long that are fused together October 25, 1999) retained November 22, 2013; 79 FR 72450, near their bases; five yellow petals 11– Chamaecrista lineata var. keyensis and December 5, 2014). 15 mm (0.4–0.6 in) long, with one Chamaesyce deltoidea ssp. serpyllum as For all four of the plant species, the slightly larger than the others; 10 candidates and assigned an LPN of 6 to 2005 CNOR (70 FR 24870; May 11, reddish-purple stamens; and a single, both, retained Linum arenicola as a 2005) included a ‘‘warranted but elongate style. The fruit is an elongate candidate and assigned an LPN of 2, and precluded’’ finding in response to a May pod, roughly similar to that of a pea, 33– retained Argythamnia blodgettii as a 11, 2004, petition to list the species. 45 mm (1.3–1.8 in) long and 4.5–5.0 mm candidate and assigned an LPN of 11. On May 10, 2011, as part of a (0.19–0.17 in) wide, with a soft fuzzy Chamaecrista lineata var. keyensis settlement agreement with a plaintiff, texture, which turns gray with age and and Chamaesyce deltoidea ssp. the Service filed a proposed work plan eventually split open to release seeds serpyllum remained on the candidate with the U.S. District Court for the (Irwin and Barneby 1982, p. 757; Small list from 2001 to 2006, with the LPN of District of Columbia. The work plan 1933, pp. 662–663). 6 (66 FR 54808, October 30, 2001; 67 FR would enable the agency to, over a Taxonomy 40657, June 13, 2002; 69 FR 24876, May period of 6 years, systematically review 4, 2004; 70 FR 24870, May 11, 2005; 71 and address the needs of more than 250 FR 53756, September 12, 2006). In the John Loomis Blodgett was the first to species listed within the 2010 CNOR, collect Chamaecrista lineata var. December 6, 2007, CNOR (72 FR 69034), including Chamaecrista lineata var. we changed the LPN of Chamaecrista keyensis, sometime between 1838 and keyensis, Chamaesyce deltoidea ssp. 1852, on Big Pine Key (Bradley and lineata var. keyensis and Chamaesyce serpyllum, Linum arenicola, and deltoidea ssp. serpyllum from a 6 to a Gann 1999, p. 17). Pollard (1894, p. 217) Argythamnia blodgettii, to determine if assigned the plants on Big Pine Key to 9 because the threats to the species were these species should be added to the found to be of lower magnitude than the existing taxon Cassia grammica. Federal Lists of Endangered and John K. Small (1903, p. 587; 1913, p. 58) previously known. Chamaecrista lineata Threatened Wildlife and Plants. This var. keyensis and Chamaesyce deltoidea followed this usage, but used the genus work plan would enable the Service to Chamaecrista (considered a subgenus ssp. serpyllum remained on the again prioritize its workload based on candidate list as published in the within Cassia or a genus unto itself the needs of candidate species, while CNORs from 2008 to 2014 with the LPN variously by many authors). In 1917, also providing State wildlife agencies, of 9 (73 FR 75176, December 10, 2008; Pennell (p. 344) recognized the Big Pine stakeholders, and other partners clarity 74 FR 57804, November 9, 2009; 75 FR Key plant as a distinct endemic species, and certainty about when listing 69222, November 10, 2010; 76 FR naming it Chamaecrista keyensis. This determinations will be made. On July 66370, October 26, 2011; 77 FR 69994, name was retained by Small (1933, p. 12, 2011, the Service reached an November 21, 2012; 78 FR 70104, 663) in his Manual of the Southeastern agreement with another plaintiff group November 22, 2013; 79 FR 72450, Flora. In an exhaustive study of Cassia and further strengthened the work plan, December 5, 2014). and Chamaecrista, Irwin and Barneby Linum arenicola remained on the which would allow the agency to focus (1982, p. 757) assigned plants in Florida candidate list from 2001 to 2009, with its resources on the species most in and parts of the West Indies to the the LPN of 2 (66 FR 54808, October 30, need of protection under the Act. These existing taxon Chamaecrista lineata, 2001; 67 FR 40657, June 13, 2002; 69 FR agreements were approved by the court and assigned the Big Pine Key plants to 24876, May 4, 2004; 70 FR 24870, May on September 9, 2011. The four species var. keyensis, retaining them as endemic 11, 2005; 71 FR 53756, September 12, are proposed for listing pursuant to to the Florida Keys. Isely (1990, p. 33), 2006; 72 FR 69034, December 6, 2007; these agreements. Wunderlin (1998, p. 348), and 73 FR 75176, December 10, 2008; 74 FR Background Wunderlin and Hansen (2003, p. 441) 57804, November 9, 2009). In the have followed this treatment. The November 10, 2010, CNOR (75 FR It is our intent to discuss below only online Atlas of Florida Vascular Plants 69222), we changed the LPN of L. those topics directly relevant to the (Wunderlin and Hansen 2014, p. 1) uses arenicola from a 2 to a 5 because of the listing of Chamaecrista lineata var. Chamaecrista lineata var. keyensis. The threats to the species were found to be keyensis, Chamaesyce deltoidea ssp. Integrated Taxonomic Information of lower magnitude than previously serpyllum, and Linum arenicola as System (2015, p. 1) uses the name known and new data showing a larger endangered, and Argythamnia blodgettii Chamaecrista lineata var. keyensis and population. L. arenicola remained on as threatened, in this proposed rule. indicates that this taxonomy is the candidate list as published in the Chamaecrista lineata var. keyensis (Big accepted. Based upon the best available CNORs from 2011 to 2014 with the LPN Pine partridge pea) scientific information, Chamaecrista of 5 (76 FR 66370, October 26, 2011; 77 lineata var. keyensis is a distinct taxon, Species Description FR 69994, November 21, 2012; 78 FR endemic to the lower Keys in Monroe 70104, November 22, 2013; 79 FR Chamaecrista lineata var. keyensis is County, Florida. Synonyms are Cassia 72450, December 5, 2014). a small, prostrate to ascending, keyensis (Pennell) J.F. Macbr and Argythamnia blodgettii remained on perennial, herbaceous shrub that is 10– Chamaecrista keyensis Pennell. the candidate list from 2001 to 2014, 80 centimeters (cm) (3.9–31.5 inches Chamaecrista lineata var. keyensis is with the LPN of 11 (66 FR 54808, (in)) tall, with yellow flowers and related to, and superficially resembles, October 30, 2001; 67 FR 40657, June 13, pinnately compound leaves (each leaf Chamaecrista fasciculata, the partridge 2002; 69 FR 24876, May 4, 2004; 70 FR consists of a main stem with multiple pea, a common species which occurs 24870, May 11, 2005; 71 FR 53756; leaflets lined up along on each side). It throughout Florida.

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Climate species, including numerous species outcroppings of rock occur. Typical The climate of south Florida where endemic to South Florida. Outcrops of herbaceous species may include Chamaecrista lineata var. keyensis weathered oolitic (small, rounded Andropogon spp.; Schizachyrium occurs is classified as tropical savanna particles or grains) limestone are gracile, S. rhizomatum, and S. and is characterized by distinct wet and common, and solution holes may be sanguineum (bluestem grasses); Aristida dry seasons and a monthly mean present. This subtropical, pyrogenic purpurascens (arrowleaf threeawn); temperature above 18 degrees Celsius flatland can be mesic or xeric depending Sorghastrum secundum (lopsided on landscape position and associated indiangrass); Muhlenbergia capillaris (°C) (64.4 degrees Fahrenheit (°F)) in natural communities (FNAI 2010a, p. 1). (hairawn muhly); Rhynchospora every month of the year (Gabler et al. Pine rocklands occur on relatively floridensis (Florida white-top sedge); 1994, p. 211). Freezes can occur in the flat, moderately to well-drained terrain Tragia saxicola (pineland noseburn); winter months, but are rare at this from 2–7 meters (m) (6.5 to 23 feet (ft)) Echites umbellata (devil’s potato); latitude in south Florida. Rainfall in the above sea level (FNAI 2010a, p. 2). The Croton linearis (pineland croton); lower Keys, where C. lineata var. oolitic limestone is at or very near the several species of Chamaesyce spp. keyensis occurs exclusively, varies from surface, and there is very little soil (sandmats); Chamaecrista fasciculata an annual average of 89–102 cm (35–40 development. Soils are generally (partridge pea); Zamia pumila (coontie); in). Approximately 75 percent of yearly composed of small accumulations of Anemia adiantifolia (maidenhair rainfall occurs during the wet season nutrient-poor sand, marl, clayey loam, pineland fern); Pteris bahamensis from June through September (Snyder et and organic debris in depressions and (Bahama brake); and Pteridium al. 1990, p. 238). crevices in the rock surface. Organic aquilinum var. caudatum (lacy bracken) Habitat acids occasionally dissolve the surface (FNAI 2010a, p. 1). limestone causing collapsed depressions There are noticeable differences in Chamaecrista lineata var. keyensis in the surface rock called solution holes species composition between the pine occurs in pine rocklands of the lower (FNAI 2010a, p. 1). Drainage varies rocklands found in the Florida Keys and Florida Keys, and adjacent disturbed according to the porosity of the the mainland. The shrub layer in pine sites, including roadsides. limestone substrate, but is generally rocklands occurring in the northern end Pine Rocklands: Pine rocklands are a rapid. Consequently, most sites are wet of the Miami Rock Ridge more closely unique and highly imperiled ecosystem for only short periods following heavy resembles pine flatwoods as a result of found on limestone substrates in south rains. During the rainy season, however, the amount of sandy soils in this area, Florida and a few islands in the some sites may be shallowly inundated with species such as Lyonia fruticosa Bahamas. In Florida, pine rocklands are by slow-flowing surface water for up to (staggerbush), Quercus minima (dwarf located on the Miami Rock Ridge in 60 days each year (FNAI 2010a, p. 1). live oak), Quercus pumila (running oak), present day Miami and in Everglades Pine rocklands have an open canopy and Vaccinium myrsinites (shiny National Park, in the Florida Keys, and of South Florida slash pine, generally blueberry) becoming more common in the Big Cypress Swamp. While all with multiple age classes. The diverse, (Snyder et al. 1990, p. 255). Pine four plants in this proposed rule occur open shrub and subcanopy layer is rocklands in the lower Florida Keys primarily in pine rocklands, they have composed of more than 100 species of have a subcanopy composed of several not been recorded in the Big Cypress palms and hardwoods (FNAI 2010a, p. palms such as Thrinax morrisii, Thrinax Swamp area. Pine rocklands differ to 1), most derived from the tropical flora radiata (Florida thatch palm), and some degree between and within these of the West Indies (FNAI 2010a, p. 1). Coccothrinax argentata, and hardwoods areas with regard to substrate (e.g., Many of these species vary in height such as Byrsonima lucida and Psidium amount of exposed limestone, type of depending on fire frequency, getting longipes (Bradley 2006, p. 3). The soil), elevation, hydrology, and species taller with time since fire. These may diversity of the herbaceous layer composition (both plant and animal). include Serenoa repens (saw palmetto), decreases as the density of the shrub Pine rocklands occur in a mosaic with Sabal palmetto (cabbage palm), layer increases (i.e., as understory primarily two other natural community Coccothrinax argentata (silver palm), openness decreases), and pine rocklands types—rockland hammock and marl Thrinax morrisii (Key thatch palm), on the mainland have a more diverse prairie. Pine rocklands grade into Myrica cerifera (wax myrtle), Rapanea herbaceous layer due to the presence of rockland hammock; pine rocklands have punctata (myrsine), Metopium temperate species and some tropical an open pine canopy, and rockland toxiferum (poisonwood), Byrsonima species that do not occur in the Florida hammock has a closed, hardwood lucida (locustberry), Dodonaea viscosa Keys (FNAI 2010, p. 63). canopy. Marl prairies differ from pine (varnishleaf), Tetrazygia bicolor Pine rocklands are maintained by rocklands in having no pines, an (tetrazygia), Guettarda scabra (rough regular fire, and are susceptible to other understory dominated by grasses and velvetseed), Ardisia escallonioides natural disturbances such as hurricanes, sedges, and a minimal cover of shrubs (marlberry), Psidium longipes frost events, and sea level rise (SLR) (FNAI 2010, p. 63). (longstalked stopper), Sideroxylon (Ross et al. 1994). Fires historically The total remaining acreage of pine salicifolium (willow bustic), and Rhus burned on an interval of approximately rocklands in Miami-Dade and Monroe copallinum (winged sumac). Short- every 3 to 7 years, and were typically Counties is now 8,981 hectares (ha) statured shrubs may include Quercus started by lightning strikes during the (22,079 acres (ac)) (approximately 8,140 elliottii (running oak), Randia aculeata frequent summer thunderstorms (FNAI ha (20,100 ac)) in Miami-Dade County, (white indigoberry), Crossopetalum 2010a, p. 3). Mature South Florida slash and 801 ha (1,979 ac) in the Florida ilicifolium (Christmas berry), Morinda pine is highly fire-resistant (Snyder et Keys (Monroe County). royoc (redgal), and Chiococca alba al. 1990, p. 259). Above-ground portions Pine rocklands are characterized by (snowberry). of hardwood shrubs are typically killed an open canopy of Pinus elliottii var. Grasses, forbs, and ferns make up a by fire, but often resprout below ground; densa (South Florida slash pine) with a diverse herbaceous layer ranging from palms typically produce new growth patchy understory of tropical and mostly continuous in areas with more post-fire from their unaffected apical temperate shrubs and palms and a rich soil development and little exposed buds. The amount of woody understory herbaceous layer of mostly perennial rock to sparse where more extensive growth is directly related to the length

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of time since the last fire. Herbaceous such as C. lineata var. keyensis are 2005, Bradley (2006, p. 35) recorded diversity declines with time since last found on road shoulders, the ground 2,339 plants/ha (5,780 plants/ac), 23.4 fire. The ecotone between pine cover is dominated mostly by native percent and 9.0 percent of the 1955 and rocklands and rockland hammock is herbs and grasses, and exotic lawn 1972 estimates, respectively. Hurricane abrupt when regular fire is present in grasses have not been planted. Wilma, which passed over Big Pine Key the system. However, when fire is Maintaining the roadsides in this on October 24, 2005, generated storm removed, the ecotone becomes more condition through regular mowing, surge in the lower Keys of up to 10 feet gradual and subtle as hardwoods without planting sod, should continue (Bradley 2006, p. 11; Hodges 2010, p. 4). encroach into the pineland (FNAI to provide suitable habitat for C. lineata In 2007, density had dropped to 820 2010a, p. 3). If fire is excluded for 20 to var. keyensis (Bradley 2006, p. 37). plant/ha (2,026 plants/ac) and had not 30 years, hardwoods will come to Historical Range fully rebounded after 9 years (Bradley et dominate the community and hammock al. 2015, pp. 21–22). By 2013, density conditions will prevail, which further Chamaecrista lineata var. keyensis is had fallen to 657 plants/ha (1,624 discourage fires from spreading except endemic to the lower Florida Keys in plants/ac) (Bradley et al. 2015, p. 21). In in drought conditions. Presently, Monroe County, Florida. Historical summary, the data from 2005 to 2013 prescribed fire must be periodically records exist for occurrences on five demonstrate a 63.8 percent decline in introduced into pine rocklands to islands: Big Pine Key, No Name Key, the density of C. lineata var. keyensis on sustain community structure, prevent Ramrod Key, Cudjoe Key, and Sugarloaf Big Pine Key (Bradley et al. 2015, p. 48). invasion by woody species, maintain Key (Hodges and Bradley 2006, pp. 20– A second indicator, the frequency high herbaceous diversity (Loope and 21). which Chamaecrista lineata var. Dunevitz 1981, pp. 5–6; FNAI 2010a, p. Current Range, Population Estimates, keyensis occurred in sample plots on 3), and prevent succession to rockland and Status Big Pine Key from data collected in hammock. The current range of Chamaecrista 2005, 2007, and 2013, also show a Pine rocklands are also susceptible to decline. Chamaecrista lineata var. natural disturbances such as hurricanes lineata var. keyensis is Big Pine Key and Cudjoe Key. In 2007, Bradley and Saha keyensis was present in 37 percent of and other severe storms, during which plots in 2005, and 19 percent of plots in trees may be killed, thereby helping to (2009, pp. 9–11) surveyed Big Pine Key, Cudjoe Key, Little Pine Key, No Name 2013, respectively. This represents a 49 maintain the open canopy that is percent reduction in the species essential to pine rocklands plants. Key, and Sugarloaf Key (the five islands in the Florida Keys containing pine frequency in study plots (Bradley et al. During such events, pine rocklands near 2015, p. 48). the coast may be temporarily inundated rocklands) and observed C. lineata var. A third indicator, total population by saltwater, which can also kill or keyensis only on Big Pine Key and size for Chamaecrista lineata var. damage vegetation (Snyder et al. 1990, Cudjoe Key. It has not been reported keyensis on publicly owned pine p. 251). These sporadic but potentially from other islands for some time rocklands on Big Pine Key (478 ha major disturbances, along with burning, (Ramrod Key in 1911, No Name Key in (1,181 ac)), was estimated to be 866,659 create the dynamic nature of the pine 1916 (Hodges and Bradley 2006, p. 45), plants in 2005 (pre-Hurricane Wilma), rocklands habitat. Some currently and Lower Sugarloaf Key in 2005 391,944 in 2007 (2 years post-Wilma), unsuitable areas may become open in (Hodges and Bradley 2006, p. 21)). and 313,914 in 2013 (8 years post- the future, while areas currently open Accordingly, C. lineata var. keyensis is may develop more dense canopy over considered extirpated from Ramrod Key, Wilma). This represents a population time, eventually rendering that portion No Name Key, and Lower Sugarloaf decrease of 64 percent (Bradley et al. of the pine rocklands unsuitable for Key—3 of 5 (60 percent) of the islands 2015, p. 21). pine rocklands endemic plants. where it was historically recorded The most recent estimate (2013) of the Within pine rocklands habitat, (Bradley and Gann 1999, p. 18; Hodges Chamaecrista lineata var. keyensis Chamaecrista lineata var. keyensis is and Bradley 2006, p. 21). Big Pine Key, population on Big Pine Key is 313,914 associated with areas that have few Cudjoe Key, Little Pine Key, No Name plants (Bradley et al. 2015, p. 21). Since hardwoods and overstory palms are Key, and Sugarloaf Key presently 82 percent of the pine rocklands on Big abundant (Bradley and Gann 1999, p contain pine rocklands habitat. No pine Pine Key are publicly owned, this 17–18). C. lineata var. keyensis plants rocklands currently exist on Ramrod estimate likely accounts for the majority are often in a clumped distribution Key. of the population. The most recent surrounded by large areas of bare, open Population data for Chamaecrista estimate of the population on Cudjoe rock that do not support plant growth lineata var. keyensis have been collected Key is 150 plants (Hodges and Bradley (Bradley 2006, p. 3). C. lineata var. periodically on Big Pine Key since 1955. 2006, p. 21). keyensis is widespread in pine Because of the size of Big Pine Key, The decline in Chamaecrista lineata rocklands of Big Pine Key, but more sample study plots were used, as var. keyensis can be largely attributed to frequent in the northern part of the opposed to a complete search of all loss of pine rocklands habitat to island (Bradley 2006, p. 13). It is also potential habitat. Multiple indicators development and modification of this more frequent in the interior of pine show that the population on Big Pine habitat due to inadequate fire rocklands than on coastal edges Key has declined over the past 60 years management. Folk (1991, p. 188) (Bradley 2006, p. 13; Bradley and Saha (Bradley 2006, p. 35). Dickson (1955) estimated that pine rocklands 2009, p. 9). C. lineata var. keyensis is and Alexander and Dickson (1972) historically covered 1,049 ha (2,592 ac), more abundant in areas with relatively reported densities of C. lineata var. about 44 percent of Big Pine Key. Pine higher elevation (Bradley and Saha keyensis from plots they established on rocklands now cover approximately 582 2009, p. 26), low shrub density, and a Big Pine Key in 1951 and 1969, ha (1,438 ac) of Big Pine Key, 56 percent diverse herb layer (Bradley 2006, p. 37). respectively. Dickson (1955) reports a of the historical estimate by Folk (1991) Roadsides: Roadsides are a potentially mean density of 10,764 plants/ha (Bradley 2006, p. 4). Hurricanes and important habitat for Chamaecrista (26,599 plants/ac). Alexander and associated storm surge have also lineata var. keyensis (Bradley 2006, p. Dickson (1972) report a mean density of impacted population levels. These 21). Where pine rocklands endemics 27,871 plants/ha (68,872 plants/ac). In factors are discussed in detail below,

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under Summary of Biological Status and Threats.

TABLE 1—SUMMARY OF THE STATUS AND TRENDS OF THE KNOWN OCCURRENCES OF CHAMAECRISTA LINEATA VAR. KEYENSIS

Most recent Population Ownership population estimate Status Trend

Big Pine Key ...... USFWS,1 FWC 2 Monroe 313, 914 (2014) 4 ...... Extant 4 ...... Declining.4 County, private. Cudjoe Key ...... USFWS,1 FWC 2 ...... 150 (2005) 3 ...... Extant 3 ...... Insufficient data. Lower Sugar Loaf Key ...... USFWS,1 FWC 2, Monroe 3 (2005) 3 ...... Extirpated 3. County. No Name Key ...... unknown ...... no data (1916) 3 ...... Extirpated 3. Ramrod Key ...... unknown ...... no data (1911) 3 ...... Extirpated 3. 1 U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. 2 Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission. 3 Hodges and Bradley 2006, p. 45. 4 Bradley et al. 2015, p. 21.

Biology rates are higher from cross-pollinated Liu et al. (2005b, p. 71) found that The reproductive biology and flowers, suggesting that inbreeding differences in fire intensity (as relationship to fire of Chamaecrista depression occurs in seeds produced measured by maximum ground lineata var. keyensis has received a through self-pollination (Liu and Koptur temperature) did not have a significant considerable amount of study. 2003, pp. 1184–1186). Taken together, long-term effect on survival, growth, or Significant findings are summarized these findings confirm that insect seedling recruitment. However, the below. pollination is crucial to the plant’s number of fruits produced and Life History and Reproduction: reproduction and progeny fitness. percentage of fruiting plants increased Chamaecrista lineata var. keyensis is a Fire Ecology and Demography: as fire intensity increased. This suggests perennial, but some stems will die back Chamaecrista lineata var. keyensis that low-intensity fires associated with every year, and a small proportion of grows in the understory of pine shorter fire return intervals (less than 3 plants may go dormant for a year or rocklands, a fire-dependent ecosystem. years) may not provide the most more. Peak flowering and fruiting The seeds have a hard seed coat that favorable conditions for post-fire occurs in the summer from May to may help them survive fire (Liu et al. recovery. 2005a, p. 216). Fire has important August, corresponding with increased Taken together, these results indicate rainfall during these months in the effects on survival and regeneration of that Chamaecrista lineata var. keyensis Florida Keys. Mature seedpods may C. lineata var. keyensis. Fire may can tolerate and may benefit from contain 1 to 10 seeds. Seedlings may immediately kill some of the plants, but periodic fire. As discussed above under appear throughout the year, with a peak populations rebound during the first in the fall during September to October, and second years after fire. Three years ‘‘Habitat,’’ fire is a crucial element in immediately following seed dispersal. post-fire, survival in burned areas can maintaining the pine rocklands habitat. Seeds may persist in the soil seed bank equal that of unburned areas, suggesting Periodic fires eliminate the shrub for up to 3 years (Liu and Menges 2005, that C. lineata var. keyensis can recover subcanopy, remove litter from the p. 1484). completely after fire. Fire stimulates ground, recycle nutrients, and are Chamaecrista lineata var. keyensis stem growth, fruiting, and seedling necessary to prevent succession to a flowers require insect visitation for establishment. Fire seasonality may hardwood-dominated ecosystem pollination. The anthers (pollen-bearing produce different responses in C. lineata (rockland hammock) that is unsuitable structures) have small pores from which var. keyensis. Overall, winter and early for C. lineata var. keyensis (Bradley and pollen escapes when a visiting insect’s summer fires produce more favorable Gann 1999, pp. 17–18). wings vibrate the structure, a results compared with late summer fires Chamaesyce deltoidea ssp. serpyllum phenomenon known as buzz- (Liu and Menges 2005, p. 1848). (wedge spurge) pollination. Though many types of Demographic modeling by (Liu et al. insects visit C. lineata var. keyensis 2005a, p. 210) found that fire return Species Description flowers, effective pollination can be intervals of 5 to 7 years generated the performed only by buzz-pollinating lowest extinction and population Chamaesyce deltoidea ssp. serpyllum bees. Of the numerous bee species that decline probabilities for Chamaecrista is a small, prostrate, perennial herb. The visit the flowers, only Xylocopa micans lineata var. keyensis, regardless of burn stems are slender and numerous, and Melissodes spp. bees have been season. Bradley and Saha (2009, p. 20) radiating out from the taproot. The observed performing effective buzz- found that both fire frequency and time leaves are 2 to 5 mm (0.08 to 0.19 in) pollination (Liu and Koptur 2003, pp. since the last fire had significant effects long, more or less triangular, and 1184–1186). on the density of C. lineata var. keyensis covered with fine short fuzz, giving the Chamaecrista lineata var. keyensis in study plots. The highest densities plant a silvery appearance. The flowers flowers are self-compatible (an were found in plots that were burned are cyathia, the specialized individual can be fertilized with its own three or more times over a 45-year inflorescences characteristic of the pollen), and seeds are generated both by period from 1960 to 2005, and in plots genus Euphorbia and its close relatives. self- and cross-pollination. However, that had burned recently, while lower The fruit is a capsule about 1.5 mm seed set is higher when cross- densities were associated with plots that (0.06 in) wide (Small 1933, p. 795; pollination occurs. Seed germination had not been burned in 45 years. Herndon 1993, p. 50).

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Taxonomy understory is open, hardwood and palm Total population size for Chamaesyce John K. Small collected plants on Big density is low, and native herbaceous deltoidea ssp. serpyllum on publicly Pine Key and first described species cover and richness are high owned pine rocklands on Big Pine Key Chamaesyce deltoidea ssp. serpyllum as (Bradley and Saha 2009, p. 26; Ross and (478 ha (1,181 acres)) was estimated to C. serpyllum (Small 1913, p. 81). Burch Ruiz 1996, p. 6; Bradley 2006, p. 27). be 352,993 plants in 2005 (pre- (1966, p.99) included C. serpyllum as a Roadsides dominated mostly by native Hurricane Wilma), 343,255 in 2007 subspecies of C. deltoidea, assigning the herbs and grasses where exotic lawn (post-Wilma), and 368,557 in 2013. This currently accepted name C. deltoidea grasses are not established are a represents a slight (4.4 percent) increase ssp. serpyllum. The online Atlas of potentially important habitat for C. in the known population size of from Florida Vascular Plants uses the name deltoidea ssp. serpyllum (Bradley 2006, 2005 to 2013 (Bradley et al. 2013, p. 21). C. deltoidea ssp. serpyllum (Wunderlin p. 37). The slight increase in 2013 is due to the Blue Hole Fire in 2011. Prior to this fire, and Hansen 2008, p. 1), and the Historical Range Integrated Taxonomic Information the species had not been detected in System (ITIS 2015, p. 1) indicates that Chamaesyce deltoidea ssp. serpyllum plots in the Blue Hole area of Big Pine its taxonomic status is accepted. We is historically known from only Big Pine Key, but was found in one plot after the have carefully reviewed all taxonomic Key in the Florida Keys in Monroe 2011 fire. This single plot contained 134 data to determine that Chamaesyce County, Florida. plants, 17.3 percent of the plants recorded across all 646 plots in 2013. If deltoidea (Engelm. ex Chapm.) Small Current Range, Population Estimates, this single plot is taken out of the ssp. serpyllum (Small) D.G. Burch is a and Status valid taxon. Synonyms include analysis, density per plot would be 1.3, Chamaesyce serpyllum Small; The current range of Chamaesyce 10.3 percent lower than that recorded in Euphorbia deltoidea Engelmann ex deltoidea ssp. serpyllum is on Big Pine 2005, and 18.6 percent lower than 2007 Chapman ssp. serpyllum (Small) Y. Key. Small groups of plants are (Bradley et al. 2015, pp. 24–25; Bradley Yang; and Chamaesyce serpyllum scattered widely across the island and Saha 2009, p. 12). Since 82 percent Small, Euphorbia deltoidea Engelmann (Herndon 1993, in Bradley and Gann of the pine rocklands on Big Pine Key ex Chapman var. serpyllum (Small) 1999, p. 31). are publicly owned, this estimate likely Oudejans (Wunderlin and Hansen 2008, Population data for Chamaesyce accounts for the majority of the p. 3). deltoidea ssp. serpyllum have been population. Taken together, the data collected on Big Pine Key periodically suggest that the population declined Climate since 1996. Indicators show that the significantly due to Hurricane Wilma The climate of south Florida where population on Big Pine Key has but rebounded by 2013. However, the Chamaesyce deltoidea ssp. serpyllum declined over the past 19 years. Using frequency of the plant in study plots has occurs is classified as tropical savanna, study plots across Big Pine Key, Ross decreased from 1996 to 2013, suggesting as described above for Chamaecrista and Ruiz (1996, p. 6) found C. deltoidea that fewer areas now support the lineata var. keyensis. ssp. serpyllum was present in 22 percent species. While there have been of study plots in 1996. When sampled significant changes between sampling Habitat again by Bradley (2006, p. 11; Bradley events, the 9-year pattern of total Chamaesyce deltoidea ssp. serpyllum et al. 2015, p. 21) in 2005, 2007, and population size is stable (Bradley et al. occurs in pine rocklands and adjacent 2013, the species was present in 7.4, 5.5, 2015, pp. 21, 24, 49). At the same time, disturbed sites on Big Pine Key, and 3.7 percent of study plots, there has been a reduction in the including roadsides. It most often grows respectively. This represents an 83 species’ range on Big Pine Key and directly from crevices in the oolitic percent reduction of the species’ frequency of the plant in study plots limestone substrate (Bradley and Gann frequency in study plots from 1996 to (Bradley et al. 2015, pp. 25, 49), 1999, p. 31). Pine rocklands are 2013, and a 50 percent reduction from suggesting that while there has been a described in detail for Chamaecrista 2005 to 2013. The decrease in frequency small increase in the total number of lineata var. keyensis, above. Within pine is attributed in large part to the total plants, the area occupied by the plant is rocklands, Chamaesyce deltoidea ssp. disappearance of the species from study shrinking. serpyllum is associated with areas of plots in the southern portion of Big Pine Table 2 summarizes the status and relatively higher elevation, extensive Key after Hurricane Wilma in 2005 trends of the known occurrences of exposed rock substrate, where the (Bradley et al. 2013, p. 24). Chamaesyce deltoidea ssp. serpyllum.

TABLE 2—SUMMARY OF THE STATUS AND TRENDS OF THE KNOWN OCCURRENCES OF CHAMAESYCE DELTOIDEA SSP. SERPYLLUM

Most recent population Population Ownership estimate Status Trend

Big Pine Key ...... USFWS, FWC, private ...... 368,557 1 ...... Extant 1 ...... Declining.1 1 Bradley et al. 2015, pp. 24–25.

Biology of Chamaesyce are completely reliant on Fire Ecology and Demography: The insects for pollination and seed assemblage of endemic plants of the Life History and Reproduction: production, while others are capable of pine rocklands, which includes Reproduction is sexual, and the plant self-pollination. Pollinators may include Chamaesyce deltoidea ssp. serpyllum, produces seeds. No studies of bees, flies, ants, and wasps (Ehrenfeld tends to be shade-intolerant and benefits reproductive biology or ecology have been conducted for Chamaesyce 1976, pp. 406, 95–97). from periodic burning to reduce deltoidea ssp. serpyllum. Other species competition from woody vegetation

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(e.g., shading, leaf litter accumulation) 2008, p. 1) uses the name L. arenicola. rockland hammocks (Hodges 2010, p. 3). (Carlson et al. 1993, p. 922; Liu et al. There is consensus that L. arenicola is Where L. arenicola is found on 2005a, p. 210, Liu et al. 2005b, p. 71). a distinct taxon. We have carefully roadsides, the ground cover is C. deltoidea ssp. serpyllum is found reviewed the available taxonomic dominated mostly by native herbs and more frequently in recently burned information to reach the conclusion that grasses where exotic lawn grasses have areas (Slapcinsky et al. 2010, p. 11). the species is a valid taxon. not been planted (Bradley 2006, p. 37). Infrequent mowing of some roadsides, Populations of C. deltoidea ssp. Climate serpyllum may decline without periodic and of disturbed sites such as fires, and fire has been shown to The climate of south Florida where Homestead Air Reserve Base (HARB) stimulate significant population growth Linum arenicola occurs is classified as and U.S. Special Operations Command (Slapcinsky and Gordon 2007, p. 5). tropical savanna, as described above for South Headquarters (SOCSOUTH), a Chamaecrista lineata var. keyensis and unified command of all four services in Linum arenicola (sand flax) Chamaesyce deltoidea ssp. serpyllum. the Department of Defense (DOD) has Species Description Rainfall within the range of Linum likely allowed the species to persist by arenicola varies from an annual average Linum arenicola is a small, perennial preventing these sites from being taken of 153–165 cm (60–65 in) in the over by hardwoods. herb that is 35 to 53 cm (14 to 21 in) northern portion of the Miami Rock Because Linum arenicola seems to tall with yellow flowers that are similar Ridge to an average of 89–102 cm (35– only rarely occur within intact pine in appearance those of a buttercup 40 in) in the lower Florida Keys (Snyder rocklands, but more frequently adjacent (Ranunculus spp.). When not in flower, et al. 1990, p. 238). to this habitat, developing conservation it resembles a short, wiry grass. Plants Habitat and management plans for this species have one to several stems arising from is exceptionally difficult. Its persistence their base. Leaves are linear in shape, 7– Pine Rocklands: Linum arenicola on roadsides is not fully understood. L. 10 millimeters (mm) (0.3–0.4 in) long, occurs in pine rocklands, disturbed pine arenicola was at one time more common 0.6–1 mm (0.02–0.04 in) wide, and rocklands, dry marl prairie, and in pine rocklands in Miami-Dade arranged alternately along stems, and disturbed areas on rocky soils adjacent County, but a lack of periodic fires in they have glands scattered along their to these habitats (Bradley and Gann most pine rocklands fragments over the edges. Flowers are produced on stems 1999, p. 61; Hodges and Bradley 2006, last century have pushed this species consisting of a few slender, spreading p. 37). L. arenicola grows in thin soil into more sunny, artificial environments branches. The individual flowers are on over limestone or in small soil patches (Bradley and Gann 1999, p. 61). It is also small stalks 2 mm (0.08 in) long or caught in surface irregularities of possible that the species has evolved to shorter. The flowers have five yellow, exposed limestone (Kernan and Bradley, persist along roadsides as fire regimes egg-shaped petals that are 4.5–5.5 mm 1996, p. 2). Sites most likely to support and natural areas were altered and (0.18–0.22 in) long, and five green, L. arenicola have a grass- and herb- destroyed over the last century (Hodges lance-shaped to egg-shaped sepals that dominated understory, abundant pine and Bradley 2006, p. 41). are 2.4–3.2 mm (0.09–0.13 in) long. The regeneration, and high cover of exposed Dry Marl Prairie: Marl prairie is a fruit is a woody capsule, 2.1–2.5 mm rock (Ross and Ruiz 1996, pp. 5–6). The sparsely vegetated, grass-dominated (0.08–0.1 in) long, 2–2.3 mm (0.08–0.09 pine rocklands and marl prairies where community found on marl substrates in in) diameter, which dries and splits into this species occurs require periodic fire South Florida. Marls are fine, white, 10 segments. The seeds are ovate, 1.2– to maintain an open, shrub-free calcareous muds formed from calcite 1.4 mm (0.05–0.06 in) long, and 0.7- 0.8 subcanopy, and to reduce litter levels precipitated by a mixture of green algae, mm (0.027–0.031 in) wide (Rogers 1963, (Bradley and Saha 2009, p. 4). Pine blue green algae, and diatoms, known as pp. 103–104). rocklands habitat is described in detail periphyton. It is seasonally inundated (2 for Chamaecrista lineata var. keyensis, Taxonomy to 4 months) to a shallow depth above. averaging about 20 cm (8 in). Marl Linum arenicola was first described Roadsides and Other Disturbed Sites: prairie is a diverse community that may by Small in 1907 as Cathartolinum While pine rocklands historically were contain over 100 species. Marl prairie arenicola from plants he collected in the primary habitat of Linum arenicola, normally dries out during the winter Miami-Dade County in 1904. This the species is currently rare in relatively and is subject to fires at the end of the treatment was consistently followed by undisturbed pine rocklands, with the dry season (FNAI 2010, p. 1). Small (1913a, p. 69; 1913b, p. 96; 1933, exception of plants on Big Pine Key. Occurrences reported from marl prairie p. 752). In 1931, Winkler included Several occurrences are in scraped are at sites that have been artificially Cathartolinum within the genus Linum, (scarified) pine rocklands remnants that drained (Bradley and Van Der Heiden renaming the plants Linum arenicola are dominated by native pine rocklands 2013, p. 11), or are scraped pine (Winkler 1931, p. 30). Others have species, but have little or no pine rocklands that function more like marl followed this treatment, including canopy or subcanopy (Bradley and Van prairie (Kernan and Bradley 1996, p. Rogers (1963, p. 103), Long and Lakela Der Heiden 2013, pp. 9–12). Two 11). As with roadside populations of (1971, p. 505), Robertson (1971, p. 649), populations in Miami-Dade County Linum arenicola, it is possible that dry Wunderlin (1998, p. 100), and occur entirely on levees composed of marl prairies have become refugia for Wunderlin & Hansen (2003, p. 100) crushed oolitic limestone that are the species as fire regimes and natural (Hodges and Bradley 2006, p. 37). surrounded by sawgrass marsh (Bradley areas were altered and destroyed over Synonyms include Cathartolinum and Gann 1999, p. 61; Bradley and Van the last century. Accordingly, the arenicola Small (Wunderlin and Hansen Der Heiden 2013, pp. 7–9). Roadsides Service does not consider marl prairie to 2004, p. 5). The Integrated Taxonomic and other disturbed sites are important be a primary habitat for L. arenicola. Information System (2015, p. 1) uses the habitat for L. arenicola because they name Linum arenicola and indicates imitate upland herbaceous habitat Historical Range that this species’ taxonomic standing is (Hodges and Bradley 2006, p. 40). The The historical range of Linum accepted. The online Atlas of Florida most robust roadside populations occur arenicola consists of central and Vascular Plants (Wunderlin and Hansen in areas adjacent to pine rocklands or southern Miami-Dade County and

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Monroe County in the lower Florida Table 3, below). In Miami-Dade County, of L. arenicola make thorough surveys Keys (Bradley and Gann 1999, p. 61). In the current distribution of Linum for this species difficult (Hodges and Miami-Dade County, records for the arenicola is from just north of SW 184 Bradley 2006, p. 37). species were widespread from the Street (in the Richmond Pinelands), Based on a compilation of all survey Coconut Grove area to the southern part south to the intersection of Card Sound work through 2013, including Austin of the County, close to what is now the Road and the C–102 canal, and west to (1980), Kernan and Bradley (1996, pp.1– main entrance to Everglades National SW 264 Street and 177 Avenue 30), Bradley and Gann (1999, pp. 61– Park and Turkey Point (Bradley and (Everglades Archery Range at Camp 65), Hodges and Bradley (2006, pp. 37– Owaissa Bauer). This distance is Gann 1999, p. 61). In the Florida Keys 41), Bradley and Saha (2009, p. 10), approximately 30 km (19 mi) north to (Monroe County), there are records of Bradley (2009, p. 3), Hodges (2010, pp. south, and 14 km (9 mi) east to west. In the species from Big Pine Key, Ramrod 4–5, 15), Bradley and van der Heiden the Florida Keys (Monroe County), the Key, Upper and Lower Sugarloaf Keys, (2013, pp. 6–12,19), and Bradley et al. current distribution of L. arenicola Park Key, Boca Chica Key, Middle (2015, pp. 28–29), of 26 historical Torch Key (Bradley and Gann 1999, p. includes four islands: Big Pine Key, Upper and Lower Sugarloaf Keys, and population records for Linum arenicola, 61), and Big Torch Key (Hodges 2010, p. 12 populations are extant and 14 are 10). Big Torch Key. Multiple surveys have been extirpated (see Table 3), a loss of Current Range, Population Estimates, conducted for Linum arenicola in roughly 54 percent of known and Status Miami-Dade and Monroe Counties over populations, from the early 1900s to the The current range of Linum arenicola the past 30 years. However, most present. consists of eight extant populations in surveys only cover one county and not Table 3 summarizes the status and Miami-Dade County and four extant the other. The large area of potential trends of the known occurrences of populations in the Florida Keys (see habitat and scarcity and diminutive size Linum arenicola.

TABLE 3—SUMMARY OF THE STATUS AND TRENDS OF THE KNOWN OCCURRENCES OF LINUM ARENICOLA

Most recent population Population Ownership estimate County Trend

Extant 12 records

Big Pine Key ...... USFWS, FWC, TNC 12, 2,676 (2007) 1 ...... Monroe ...... declining. Private. Upper Sugarloaf Key ...... FDOT 13, USFWS ...... 73 (2010) 2 ...... Monroe ...... insufficient data. Lower Sugarloaf Key ...... FDOT 13, USFWS ...... 531 (2010) 2 ...... Monroe ...... stable. Big Torch Key ...... FDOT 13, Private ...... 1 (2010) 2 ...... Monroe ...... declining. Richmond Pineland ...... Private ...... 56 (2014) 5 ...... Miami-Dade ...... insufficient data. Martinez Pineland ...... Miami-Dade County ...... 100–200 (2013) 6 ...... Miami-Dade ...... insufficient data. Everglades Archery Range Miami-Dade County ...... 23 (2012) 7 ...... Miami-Dade ...... insufficient data. (Camp Owaissa Bauer). HAFB 15 1—S of Naizare DOD 14, Miami-Dade 24,000 (2013) 7 ...... Miami-Dade ...... stable. BLVD. County. SOCSOUTH (HAFB 2— DOD 14 (leased from 74,000 (2009) 710 ...... Miami-Dade ...... stable. NW side of Bikini BLVD). Miami-Dade County). HARB (SW 288 St. and DOD 14 ...... 37 (2011) 7 ...... Miami-Dade ...... insufficient data. 132 Ave). C–102 Canal SW 248 St. SFWMD 11 ...... 1,000–10,000 (2013) 7 ...... Miami-Dade ...... insufficient data. to U.S. 1. L–31E canal, from SW 328 SFWMD 11 ...... Plants occur along 14 km Miami-Dade ...... insufficient data. St. to Card Sound Road. (8.7 mi) of levee (2013) 7.

Extirpated 14 records

Middle Torch Key ...... FWC, FDOT 13 ...... 3 (2005) 3 ...... Monroe. Ramrod Key ...... FDOT 13 ...... 110 (1979) 4 ...... Monroe. Park Key ...... FDOT 13 ...... unknown (1961) 3 ...... Monroe. Boca Chica ...... DOD 14, other (unknown) .. unknown (1912) 3 ...... Monroe. Camp Jackson ...... unknown ...... unknown (1907) 9 ...... Miami-Dade. Big Hammock Prairie ...... unknown ...... unknown (1911) 9 ...... Miami-Dade. Camp Owaissa Bauer ...... Miami-Dade County ...... 10 (1983) 7 ...... Miami-Dade. Allapatah Drive and Old Private ...... 256 (1996) 8 ...... Miami-Dade. Cutler Road. Bauer Drive (Country Miami-Dade County ...... 8 (1996) 8 ...... Miami-Dade. Ridge Estates). Silver Green Cemetery ...... Private ...... 47 (1996) 8 ...... Miami-Dade. Palmetto Bay Village Cen- Private ...... 12 (1996) 8 ...... Miami-Dade. ter. HAFB (Community Part- DOD 14, Miami-Dade unknown (2010) 7 ...... Miami-Dade. nership Drive). County. Coco Plum Circle (corner Private ...... 75 (1996) 8 ...... Miami-Dade. of Robles Street & Vista Mar Street).

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TABLE 3—SUMMARY OF THE STATUS AND TRENDS OF THE KNOWN OCCURRENCES OF LINUM ARENICOLA—Continued

Most recent population Population Ownership estimate County Trend

George Avery Pineland Private ...... ‘‘small colony’’ (2002) 7 ..... Miami-Dade. Preserve. 1 Bradley and Saha 2009, p. 10 2 Hodges 2010, p. 10 3 Hodges and Bradley 2006, pp. 39–48 4 Austin et al. 1980 in FNAI 5 FTBG 2014, p. 2 6 Possely 2014, pers. comm. 7 Bradley and Van Der Heiden 2013, pp. 6–11 8 Kernan and Bradley 1996, p. 9 9 Bradley and Gann 1999, p. 65 10 Bradley 2009, p. 3 11 South Florida Water Management District (SFWMD) 12 The Nature Conservancy (TNC) 13 Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT) 14 Department of Defense (DOD) 15 Homestead Air Force Base (HAFB; decommissioned)

Based on the data presented in Table private land that is currently slated for resurveyed Upper Sugarloaf and 3, reliable population trends can be development (Fairchild Tropical rediscovered the population. derived from past surveys for 5 of the Botanic Garden (FTBG) 2014, p. 2). The Linum arenicola is extirpated from 4 12 extant populations. Populations on largest Linum arenicola population in of 8 (50 percent) of the islands that once Big Pine Key and Big Torch Key have Miami-Dade County, estimated at supported it. Its historical range shown clear declines. Three populations 74,000 plants in 2009 (Bradley 2009, p. spanned approximately 36 km (22 mi) appear to be stable (data suggest they 3), is located on property owned by the from northeast to southwest. The loss of have not declined appreciably). Data are Miami-Dade County Homeless Trust populations on Boca Chica, Park, insufficient to determine trends for the and leased to Special Operations Middle Torch, and Ramrod Keys remaining seven populations. The data Command South (SOCSOUTH; a DOD represents a 14-km (9-mi) loss of the also show that 5 of the 12 extant facility). western extent of the species’ range, populations are rather small, having In Miami-Dade County, of 18 records corresponding to a 39 percent fewer than 100 plants. for Linum arenicola, 8 populations are contraction of the species’ historical Miami-Dade County: The first survey extant, while 10 are extirpated, a loss of range. The total population of Linum for Linum arenicola, conducted in 1980 roughly 56 percent of known arenicola in Monroe County is in Miami-Dade County, reported two populations. The loss of these estimated at 2,676 plants in pine extant and eight extirpated populations, populations corresponds to a rocklands on Big Pine Key (Bradley and but population sizes were not reported contraction of the species’ historical Saha 2009, p. 10), and 100 to 1,000 (Austin et al., 1980, p. 3). A 1996 survey range in Miami-Dade County by plants across the remainder of the conducted in Miami-Dade County approximately 20 km (12 mi) at its Florida Keys (Hodges and Bradley 2006, reported seven populations, northern extent (40 percent reduction in pp. 37, 48; Hodges 2010, p. 10). representing about 1,000 plants (Kernan north to south range), and The largest population in Monroe and Bradley 1996, p. 5). A 1999 status approximately 15 km (9 mi) of its east County is located on Big Pine Key survey reported five extant populations to west extent (50 percent reduction in within the National Key Deer Refuge and seven extirpated populations in east to west range). (NKDR) and surrounding lands, where Miami-Dade County (Bradley and Gann Monroe County (Florida Keys): A 1999 there are approximately 478 ha (1,181 1999, p. 65). status survey reported four Linum ac) of publicly owned pine rocklands A comprehensive field survey of arenicola populations in Monroe (Gann et al. 2002, p. 806; Bradley 2006, Linum arenicola sites in Miami-Dade County (Bradley and Gann 1999, p. 65). p. 4; Hodges and Bradley 2006, pp. 37– was conducted in 2013 (Bradley and In 2006, Hodges and Bradley (2006, pp. 38). It is also the best studied van der Heiden 2013, p. 4). L. arenicola 37–41) conducted the first population. On Big Pine Key, Linum populations were found at six sites, comprehensive survey of the arenicola occurs at the Terrestris containing an estimated total of 107,060 distribution and abundance of L. Preserve, which is owned by TNC; this plants. Populations ranged in size from arenicola in the Florida Keys, including occurrence is included within the Big 23 plants to 74,000 plants, with a extant occurrences, historical records, Pine Key site in Table 3. median population size of and exploratory surveys of potential Linum arenicola on Big Pine Key has approximately 4,500. All but one of the habitat. Four extant populations were been surveyed multiple times since Miami-Dade L. arenicola populations observed (Big Pine Key, Big Torch Key, 1996, with the most recent being 2014. occur on public lands, but only the Middle Torch Key, and Lower Sugarloaf Because of the size of Big Pine Key, Martinez Pineland site is managed for Key) and three historical populations sample study plots were utilized for conservation. The remaining sites are were confirmed extirpated (Boca Chica these surveys, as opposed to a complete owned by the DOD (military bases), Key, Ramrod Key, and Park Key). The search of all potential habitats. Ross and State of Florida (canal banks; SFWMD), surveys did not find L. arenicola in Ruiz (1996, p. 5) found the species in 11 and Miami-Dade County (a public potential habitat on No Name Key, Little percent of their study plots. Subsequent archery range). A seventh small Torch Key, or Upper Sugarloaf Key surveys in 2005, 2007, and 2013 have population located in 2014 at the (Hodges and Bradley 2006, pp. 37, 48). found L. arenicola to be extremely rare, Richmond pinelands is located on However, in 2010, Hodges (2010, p. 10) being recorded in 4.1, 2.0, and 1.4

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percent of study plots, respectively, shrub or herb, 10 to 60 cm (4 to 24 in) Climate representing an 87 percent reduction tall, with a woody base and small, green The climate of south Florida where from 1996 to 2013 (Bradley et al. 2015, flowers. The stems and leaves are Argythamnia blodgettii occurs is pp. 28–29). covered with small hairs. The leaves, classified as tropical savanna, as The decline in the Big Pine Key arranged alternately along the stems, are described above for Chamaecrista population of Linum arenicola from 1.5 to 4.0 cm (0.6 to 1.6 in) long, have lineata var. keyensis, Chamaesyce 2005 to 2007 can be largely attributed to smooth (or rarely toothed) edges, are deltoidea ssp. serpyllum, and Linum the effects of Hurricane Wilma (Bradley oval or elliptic in shape, and often are arenicola. 2006, p. 11; Hodges 2010, p. 4). Prior to colored a distinctive, metallic bluish Rainfall within the range of Wilma, there was a maximum of 56,404 green. The plants have separate male Argythamnia blodgettii varies from an individuals of L. arenicola in the 478 ha and female flowers. Staminate (male) annual average of 153–165 cm (60–65 (1,181 ac) of publicly owned pine flowers have a calyx 7 to 8 mm (0.27 to in) in the northern portion of the Miami rocklands on Big Pine Key (Bradley 0.31 in) wide, consisting of 4 to 5 lance- Rock Ridge to an average of 89–102 cm 2006, p. 19). As of 2007, there were just shaped sepals that are larger than the (35–40 in) in the lower Florida Keys 2,676 plants, representing a 95 percent petals. The petals are broadly elliptic (Snyder et al. 1990, p. 238). decline (Bradley and Saha 2009, p. 10). and shorter than the sepals. There are 10 Significantly, the species virtually stamens. Pistillate (female) flowers have Habitat disappeared from the southern half of 4 to 5 sepals that are 5 to 6 mm (0.19 Argythamnia blodgettii grows in pine Big Pine Key after Hurricane Wilma to 0.24 in) long, lance-shaped, and often rocklands, in sunny gaps or edges of (Bradley and Saha 2009, p. 10). more narrow than those of male flowers. rockland hammock and coastal berm, Historically, the population has The petals are broadly elliptic, shorter and on roadsides (Bradley and Gann declined due to habitat loss and fire than the sepals. The fruit is a woody 1999, p. 3). It grows from crevices on suppression. Approximately half of the capsule 4 to 5 mm (0.16 to 0.19 in) oolitic limestone or on sand. The pine historical pine rocklands on Big Pine wide, which contains the seeds rocklands habitat where it occurs Key have been lost (Bradley 2006, p. (Adapted from Small 1933, pp. 784–785; requires periodic fire to maintain an 35). Long-term ecological changes Bradley and Gann 1999, p. 2). open, sunny understory with a associated with fire suppression, land minimum amount of hardwoods. clearing, SLR, changes in hydrology, Taxonomy Bradley and Gann (1999, p. 3) indicated fluctuations in Key deer (Odocoileus Botanist John Torrey first described that this species does tolerate some virginianus clavium) densities, and the species in Chapman (1884, p. 100) degree of human-induced disturbance. It invasion of exotic plants likely have can often be found along disturbed impacted the population sizes of this as Aphora blodgettii, reporting it for South Florida. In an 1896 (p. 100) edges of pine rocklands, rockland species (Bradley 2006, p. 2; Bradley and hammock, and coastal berm, or in Saha 2009, p. 2). revision of the genus, Pax placed it in the genus Ditaxis. In 1897 (p. 100), completely scarified pine rocklands The population on Big Torch Key also (Bradley and Gann, 1999, p. 3). Pine declined after Hurricane Wilma, but this Chapman placed it in the genus Argythamnia. In 1903, Small placed it rocklands are described in detail for decline may have been due to herbicide Chamaecrista lineata var. keyensis, applications or frequent mowing again in the genus Ditaxis. In 1914, Pax (p. 100) placed it in synonymy under above. associated with road shoulder Coastal Berm: Coastal berms are Ditaxis fendleri, a plant of Colombia, maintenance (Hodges 2010, p. 4). landscape features found along low- Venezuela, Curacao, and Trinidad. energy coastlines in south Florida and Biology Small (1933, pp. 784–785) retained it as the Florida Keys. Coastal berm is a short Ditaxis blodgettii, treating it as a Life History and Reproduction: Little forest or shrub thicket found on long, southern Florida endemic. Subsequent is known about the life history of Linum narrow, storm-deposited ridges of loose authors (Webster 1967, p. 100; Long and arenicola, including pollination biology, sediment formed by a mixture of coarse Lakela 1971, p. 558; Wunderlin 1998, p. seed production, or dispersal. shell fragments, pieces of coralline 100; Wunderlin and Hansen 2003, p. Reproduction is sexual, with new plants algae, and other coastal debris. These 100) have retained it as a southern generated from seeds. The species ridges parallel the shore and may be Florida endemic Argythamnia blodgettii produces flowers from February to found on the seaward edge or landward September, with a peak around March (from Hodges and Bradley 2006, p. 10). edge of the mangroves or farther inland and April. L. arenicola population The Integrated Taxonomic depending on the height of the storm demographics or longevity have not Information System (2015, p. 1) uses the surge that formed them. They range in been studied (Bradley and Gann, 1999, name Argythamnia blodgettii and height from 0.30 to 3.05 m (1 to 10 ft). p. 65; Hodges and Bradley 2006, p. 41; indicates that this species’ taxonomic Structure and composition of the Hodges 2007, p. 2). standing is accepted. The online Atlas vegetation is variable depending on Fire Ecology and Demography: There of Florida Vascular Plants (Wunderlin height and time since the last storm have been no studies of Linum arenicola and Hansen 2008, p. 1) uses the name event. The most stable berms may share population demographics or A. blodgettii. In summary, there is some tree species with rockland relationship to fire, though historical consensus that A. blodgettii is a distinct hammocks, but generally have a greater declines have been partially attributed taxon. We have carefully reviewed the proportion of shrubs and herbs. Tree to habitat loss from fire suppression or available taxonomic information to species may include Bursera simaruba inadequate fire management. reach the conclusion that the species is (gumbo limbo), Coccoloba uvifera Argythamnia blodgettii (Blodgett’s a valid taxon. Synonyms include (seagrape), Coccothrinax argentata silverbush) Aphora blodgettii Torr. ex Chapm.; (silver palm), Guapira discolor (blolly), Ditaxis blodgettii (Torr. ex Chapm.) Pax; Drypetes diversifolia (milkbark), Genipa Species Description Argyrothamnia blodgettii (Torr. ex clusiifolia (seven year apple), and Argythamnia blodgettii, in the Chapm.) Chapm.; and Ditaxis fendleri Metopium toxiferum (poisonwood). Euphorbia family, is an erect, perennial Pax, not (Mu¨ ll. Arg.) Pax and K. Hoof. Characteristic tall shrub and short tree

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species include Eugenia foetida (black ironwood), Exothea paniculata it encountered the hammock’s moist (Spanish stopper), Ximenia americana (inkwood), Metopium toxiferum, and microclimate and litter layer. However, (hog plum), Randia aculeata (white Swietenia mahagoni (West Indies rockland hammocks are susceptible to indigoberry), Pithecellobium keyense mahogany). Mature hammocks may be damage from fire during extreme (Florida Keys blackbead), and open beneath a tall, well-defined drought or when the water table is Sideroxylon celastrinum (saffron plum). canopy and subcanopy. More lowered. In these cases, fire can cause Short shrubs and herbs include commonly, in less mature or disturbed tree mortality and consume the organic Hymenocallis latifolia (perfumed hammocks, dense woody vegetation of soil layer (FNAI 2010e, p. 2). spiderlily), Capparis flexuosa (bayleaf varying heights from canopy to short Rockland hammocks are also sensitive capertree), Lantana involucrata shrubs is often present. Species that to the strong winds and storm surge (buttonsage), and Rivina humilis generally make up the shrub layers associated with infrequent hurricanes. (rougeplant). More seaward berms or within rockland hammock include Canopy damage often occurs, which those more recently affected by storm several species of Eugenia (stoppers), causes a change in the microclimate of deposition may support a suite of plants Thrinax morrisii and T. radiata (thatch the hammock. Decreased relative similar to beaches, including shoreline palms), Amyris elemifera (sea humidity and drier soils can leave Sesuvium portulacastrum (sea torchwood), Ardisia escallonioides rockland hammocks more susceptible to purslane), Distichlis spicata (saltgrass), (marlberry), Psychotria nervosa (wild fire. Rockland hammock can transition and Sporobolus virginicus (seashore coffee), Chrysophyllum oliviforme into glades marsh, mangrove swamp, dropseed), or scattered to dense shrub (satinleaf), Sabal palmetto (cabbage salt marsh, coastal rock barren, pine thickets with Conocarpus erectus palm), Guaiacum sanctum (lignum- rocklands, maritime hammock, or marl (buttonwood), stunted Avicennia vitae), Ximenia americana, Colubrina prairie (FNAI 2010e, p. 2). germinans (black mangrove), elliptica (soldierwood), Pithecellobium The sparsely vegetated edges or Rhizophora mangle (red mangrove), unguis-cati and Pithecellobium keyense, interior portions laid open by canopy Laguncularia racemosa (white Coccoloba uvifera, and Colubrina disruption are the areas of rockland mangrove), Suriana maritima (bay arborescens (greenheart). Vines can be hammock that have light levels cedar), Manilkara jaimiqui (wild dilly), common and include Toxicodendron sufficient to support Argythamnia Jacquinia keyensis (joewood), and radicans (eastern poison ivy), Smilax blodgettii. However, the dynamic nature Borrichia frutescens (bushy seaside auriculata (earleaf greenbrier), Smilax of the habitat means that areas not oxeye) (Florida Natural Areas Inventory havanensis (Everglades greenbrier), currently open may become open in the (FNAI) 2010a, p. 1). Parthenocissus quinquefolia (Virginia future as a result of canopy disruption Coastal berms are deposited by storm creeper), Hippocratea volubilis from hurricanes, while areas currently waves along low-energy coasts. Their (medicine vine), and Morinda royoc open may develop more dense canopy distance inland depends on the height (redgal). The typically sparse short over time, eventually rendering that of the storm surge. Tall berms may be shrub layer may include Zamia pumila portion of the hammock unsuitable for the product of repeated storm (coontie) and Acanthocereus tetragonus A. blodgettii. deposition. Coastal berms that are (triangle cactus). Herbaceous species are Historical Range deposited far enough inland and remain occasionally present and generally long-undisturbed may in time succeed sparse in coverage. Characteristic Argythamnia blodgettii historically to hammock. This is a structurally species include Lasiacis divaricata occurred from central and southern variable community that may appear in (smallcane), Oplismenus hirtellus Miami-Dade County from Brickell various stages of succession following (basketgrass), and many species of ferns Hammock to Long Pine Key in storm disturbance, from scattered (FNAI 2010e, p. 1). Everglades National Park, and in herbaceous beach colonizing plants to a Rockland hammock occurs on a thin Monroe County throughout the Florida dense stand of tall shrubs (FNAI 2010a, layer of highly organic soil covering Keys from Totten Key south to Key West p. 2). limestone on high ground that does not (Bradley and Gann 1999, p. 2). Rockland Hammock: Rockland regularly flood, but it is often dependent Current Range, Population Estimates, hammock is a species-rich, tropical upon a high water table to keep and Status hardwood forest on upland sites in areas humidity levels high. Rockland where limestone is very near the surface hammocks are frequently located near Argythamnia blodgettii is currently and often exposed. The forest floor is wetlands; in the Everglades, they can known from central Miami-Dade County largely covered by leaf litter with occur on organic matter that from Coral Gables and southern Miami- varying amounts of exposed limestone accumulates on top of the underlying Dade County to Long Pine Key in and has few herbaceous species. limestone; in the Keys, they occur Everglades National Park, and the Rockland hammocks typically have inland from tidal flats (FNAI 2010e, p. Florida Keys from nine islands, from larger, more mature trees in the interior, 1). Windley Key (Bradley and Gann 1999, while the margins can be almost Rockland hammock is susceptible to p. 3) southwest to Boca Chica Key impenetrable in places with dense fire, frost, canopy disruption, and (Hodges and Bradley 2006, pp. 10, 43). growth of smaller shrubs, trees, and ground water reduction. Rockland Previous status surveys of vines. Typical canopy and subcanopy hammock can be the advanced Argythamnia blodgettii include Bradley species include Bursera simaruba, successional stage of pine rocklands, and Gann (1999, pp. 2–6) and Hodges Lysiloma latisiliquum (false tamarind), especially in cases where rockland and Bradley (2006, pp. 11–20, 43). Coccoloba diversifolia (pigeon plum), hammock is adjacent to pine rocklands. Bradley and Gann (1999, p. 3) reported Sideroxylon foetidissimum (false In such cases, when fire is excluded 18 extant occurrences of A. blodgettii in mastic), Ficus aurea (strangler fig), from pine rocklands for 15 to 25 years, 1999 (4 in Monroe County, 14 in Miami- Piscidia piscipula (Jamaican dogwood), it can succeed to rockland hammock Dade County), representing Ocotea coriacea (lancewood), Drypetes vegetation. Historically, rockland approximately 10,000 plants. Hodges diversifolia, Simarouba glauca hammocks in south Florida evolved and Bradley (2006, pp. 11–20, 43) (paradisetree), Sideroxylon salicifolium with fire in the landscape. Fire most verified that A. blodgettii is extant on (willow bustic), Krugiodendron ferreum often extinguished near the edges when nine islands in the Florida Keys

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(Monroe County), and has an estimated population of Argythamnia blodgettii in Big Munson Island and is estimated to population of between 10,000 and Miami-Dade County is 375 to 13,650 be 8,000 to 9,000 plants (Hodges and 100,000 plants (Hodges and Bradley, p. plants (i.e., total of low and high Bradley 2006, p. 17). On Big Pine Key, 2). The FNAI element tracking summary estimates) (K. Bradley 2007, pers. a population of A. blodgettii estimated data indicated a total of 31 element comm.); however, this may be an at 2,200 plants is found scattered across occurrence records in 2 counties, with overestimate of the actual population the island. Occurrences are known from 24 occurrences in management areas size because it was based upon a log10 the Koehn’s subdivision, Long Beach, (FNAI 2008, p. 1). There is insufficient scale. In Everglades National Park Cactus Hammock, and Watson data available to identify trends in any (ENP), the current estimated population Hammock. Sizable populations also populations of A. blodgettii. size is 2,000 plants (J. Sadle 2015, pers. occur at Key West Naval Air Station on Although we do not know the total comm.). Boca Chica Key. The total population extent of the former range of Based on the data presented below in size in the Florida Keys is estimated to Argythamnia blodgettii, approximately Table 4, there are 31 records for be approximately 13,200 plants (Hodges 12 miles (19 kilometers) of the species’ Argythamnia blodgettii in Miami-Dade and Bradley 2006, pp. 10–13, 17). range has been lost near the northern County. Six populations are extant, 11 Argythamnia blodgettii is extirpated end of the range in Miami-Dade County are extirpated, and the status of 14 is from 3 of 16 (23 percent) of the islands and 43 miles (69 kilometers) has been uncertain because they have not been that once supported it. Based on the lost in Monroe County on the southern surveyed in 15 years or more. data presented in Table 4, there are 18 edge of the species’ range (Bradley and Monroe County: In the Keys, records for A. blodgettii in Monroe Gann 1999, p. 3). Argythamnia blodgettii is extant on nine County. Eleven populations are extant, Miami-Dade County: According to islands, with three others of uncertain three are extirpated, and the status of data from the Institute for Regional status (Hodges and Bradley 2006, p. 43). four is uncertain because they have not Conservation (IRC), the estimated The largest population surveyed is on been surveyed in 15 years or more.

TABLE 4—SUMMARY OF THE STATUS AND TRENDS OF THE KNOWN OCCURRENCES OF ARGYTHAMNIA BLODGETTII

Most recent population Population Ownership estimate County Trend

Extant 17 records

Plantation Key, Snake FWC ...... 101–1,000 (2005) 2 ...... Monroe ...... Insufficient data. Creek Hammock. Lower Matecumbe Key— FDEP 6 ...... 11–100 (2000) 2 ...... Monroe ...... Insufficient data. Klopp Tract. Lignumvitae Key ...... FDEP 6 ...... 101–1,000 (2005) 2 ...... Monroe ...... Insufficient data. Big Munson Island ...... Private (Boy Scouts of 1,001–10,000 (2005) 2 ...... Monroe ...... Insufficient data. America). North Key Largo ...... DOD, FDOT ...... No estimate (2005) 8 ...... Monroe ...... Insufficient Data. Key Largo—Dove Creek FWC, FDOT ...... 11–100 (2005) 2 ...... Monroe ...... Insufficient data. Hammock. Vaca Key (Marathon)— FWC, FDOT ...... 11–100 (2005) 2 ...... Monroe ...... Insufficient data. Blue Heron Hammock. Windley Key—State Park .. FDEP 6 ...... 11–100 (2005) 2 ...... Monroe ...... Insufficient data. Boca Chica KWNAS 7 Run- DOD ...... 1,001–10,000 (2004) 2 ...... Monroe ...... Insufficient data. way 25. Boca Chica Key KWNAS 7 DOD ...... 200 (2004) 2 ...... Monroe ...... Insufficient data. Weapons Hammock. Big Pine Key ...... USFWS, FWC, private ...... ∼2,200 (2005) 2 ...... Monroe ...... Insufficient data. ENP Long Pine Key Deer NPS 5 ...... 2,000 (2015) 4 ...... Miami-Dade ...... Insufficient data. Hammock area (Pine Block A), Turkey Ham- mock area (Pine Block B), Pine Block E. Camp Choee ...... Private (Girl Scout Council 3 (2005) 3 ...... Miami-Dade ...... Insufficient data. of Tropical Florida). Crandon Park—Key Bis- Miami Dade Parks and 4 (2005) 3 ...... Miami-Dade ...... Insufficient data. cayne. Recreation. Martinez Pineland/Larry Miami Dade Parks and 6 (2005) 3 ...... Miami-Dade ...... Insufficient data. and Penny Thompson Recreation. Park. Tropical Park Pineland ...... Miami Dade Parks and 20 (2005) 3 ...... Miami-Dade ...... Insufficient data. Recreation. Boystown Pineland ...... Private ...... No estimate (2005) 3 ...... Miami-Dade ...... Insufficient data.

Uncertain 18 records

Crawl Key, Forestiera Private ...... 10 (1982) 3 ...... Monroe ...... Insufficient data. Hammock. Long Key State Park ...... FDEP ...... No estimate (1999) 2 ...... Monroe ...... Insufficient data. Stock Island ...... Private ...... No estimate (1981) 2 ...... Monroe ...... Insufficient data. Boot Key ...... Private ...... 11–100 (1998) 2 ...... Monroe ...... Insufficient data. Deering Estate ...... State of Florida ...... 11–100 (1991) 1 ...... Miami-Dade ...... Insufficient data.

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TABLE 4—SUMMARY OF THE STATUS AND TRENDS OF THE KNOWN OCCURRENCES OF ARGYTHAMNIA BLODGETTII— Continued

Most recent population Population Ownership estimate County Trend

Castellow Hammock ...... Miami Dade Parks and 11–100 (1991) 1 ...... Miami-Dade ...... Insufficient data. Recreation. Owaissa Bauer County Miami Dade Parks and 101–1,000 (1991) 1 ...... Miami-Dade ...... Insufficient data. Park. Recreation. Pine Ridge Sanctuary ...... Private ...... 2–10 (1992) 1 ...... Miami-Dade ...... Insufficient data. County Ridge Estates ...... Private ...... 11–100 (1999) 1 ...... Miami-Dade ...... Insufficient data. Epmore Drive pineland ...... Private ...... 2–10 (1999) 1 ...... Miami-Dade ...... Insufficient data. Gifford Arboretum Pineland Private ...... 2–10 (1999) 1 ...... Miami-Dade ...... Insufficient data. Ned Glenn Nature Pre- Miami Dade Parks and 11–100 (1999) 1 ...... Miami-Dade ...... Insufficient data. serve. Recreation. Natural Forest Community Private ...... 2–10 (1999) 1 ...... Miami-Dade ...... Insufficient data. #317. Old Dixie pineland ...... Private ...... 11–100 (1999) 1 ...... Miami-Dade ...... Insufficient data. Owaissa Bauer Addition #1 Miami Dade Parks and 11–100 (1991) 1 ...... Miami-Dade ...... Insufficient data. Recreation. SW 184th St. and 83rd Private ...... 11–100 (1999) 1 ...... Miami-Dade ...... Insufficient data. Ave.. Castellow #33 ...... Private ...... 12 (1995) 3 ...... Miami-Dade ...... Insufficient data. Castellow #31 ...... Private ...... 30–50 (1995) 3 ...... Miami-Dade ...... Insufficient data.

Extirpated 14 records

Upper Matecumbe Key ..... unknown ...... No estimate (1967) 3 ...... Monroe. Totten Key ...... NPS ...... No estimate (1904) 1 ...... Monroe. Key West ...... City of Key West ...... No estimate (1965) 1 ...... Monroe. Fuch’s Hammock ...... Miami-Dade County ...... No estimate (1991) 1 ...... Miami-Dade. Brickell Hammock ...... unknown ...... Extirpated 1937 1 ...... Miami-Dade. Carribean Park ...... Miami-Dade County ...... Extirpated 1998 1 ...... Miami-Dade. Coconut Grove ...... Miami-Dade County ...... Extirpated 1901 1 ...... Miami-Dade. Coral Gables area ...... unknown ...... Extirpated 1967 1 ...... Miami-Dade. Miller and 72nd Ave ...... unknown ...... Extirpated 1975 1 ...... Miami-Dade. Orchid Jungle ...... Miami-Dade County ...... Extirpated 1930 1 ...... Miami-Dade. Palms Woodlawn Ceme- Private ...... Extirpated 1992 1 ...... Miami-Dade. tery. South of Miami River ...... unknown ...... Extirpated 1913 1 ...... Miami-Dade. Bauer Drive Pineland ...... Private ...... No estimate (1985) 3 ...... Miami-Dade. Naranja ...... Private ...... No estimate (1974) 3 ...... Miami-Dade. 1 Bradley and Gann 1999, p. 6. 2 Hodges and Bradley 2006, pp. 10–17. 3 FNAI 2011. 4 Sadle 2015, pers. comm., p. 1. 5 National Park Service (NPS). 6 Florida Department of Environmental Protection (FDEP). 7 Key West Naval Air Station (KWNAS). 8 Henize and Hipes 2005, p. 25.

Biology of any one of five factors affecting its fragmentation, and modification caused Life History and Reproduction: continued existence. In this section, we by development (i.e., conversion to both Reproductive biology of Argythamnia summarize the biological condition of urban and agricultural land uses) and blodgettii has not been studied. each of the plant species and its inadequate fire management. Each of Reproduction is sexual and flowering resources, and the factors affecting these threats and its specific effects on and fruiting apparently takes place them, to assess the species’ overall these plants are discussed in detail throughout the year (Bradley and Gann viability and the risks to that viability. below. 1999, p. 3). Factor A. The Present or Threatened Human Population Growth, Fire Ecology and Demography: The Destruction, Modification, or Development, and Agricultural fire ecology and demography of Curtailment of Its Habitat or Range Conversion Argythamnia blodgettii have not been studied. Populations of A. blodgettii can Chamaecrista lineata var. keyensis, The modification and destruction of be ephemeral (Hodges and Bradley Chamaesyce deltoidea ssp. serpyllum, the habitats that support Chamaecrista 2006, p. 14). Linum arenicola, and Argythamnia lineata var. keyensis, Chamaesyce blodgettii have experienced substantial deltoidea ssp. serpyllum, Linum Summary of Biological Status and destruction, modification, and arenicola, and Argythamnia blodgettii Threats curtailment of their habitats and ranges has been extreme in most areas of The Act directs us to determine (see Background, above). Specific Miami-Dade and Monroe Counties, whether any species is an endangered threats to these plants included in this thereby reducing these plants’ current species or a threatened species because factor include habitat loss, ranges and abundance in Florida. The

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pine rocklands community of south The marl prairies that also support development related to the Boy Scout Florida, in which all four plants Linum arenicola have similarly been camp on Big Munson Island is a primarily occur, is critically imperiled destroyed by the rapid development of potential threat to the largest population locally and globally (FNAI 2012, p. 27). Miami-Dade and Monroe Counties. At A. blodgettii. Destruction of pine rocklands and least some of the occurrences reported The largest Linum arenicola rockland hammocks has occurred since from this habitat may be the result of population in Miami-Dade County is the beginning of the 1900s. Extensive colonization that occurred after they located on property owned by the land clearing for human population were artificially dried-out due to local Miami-Dade County Homeless Trust. growth, development, and agriculture in or regional drainage. SOCSOUTH, a unified command of all Miami-Dade and Monroe Counties has Likewise, habitat modification and four services of DOD, has entered into altered, degraded, or destroyed destruction from residential and a 50-year agreement with Miami-Dade thousands of acres of these once commercial development have severely County to lease this 90-ac (36.4-ha) area, abundant ecosystems. impacted rockland hammocks, and where they are building a permanent In Miami-Dade County, development coastal berm, that support Argythamnia headquarters on approximately 28 ac and agriculture have reduced pine blodgettii. Rockland hammocks were (11.3 ha) (DOD 2009, p. 1). As stated rocklands habitat by 90 percent in once abundant in Miami-Dade and above, the population of L. arenicola is mainland south Florida. Pine rocklands Monroe Counties but are now spread across the site and was estimated habitat decreased from approximately considered imperiled locally and at 74,000 plants in 2009 (Bradley 2009, 74,000 ha (183,000 ac) in the early globally (FNAI 2010x, pp. 24–26). The p. 3). In consultation with the Service, 1900s, to only 8,140 ha (20,100 ac) in tremendous development and the DOD developed a plan that avoided 1996 (Kernan and Bradley 1996, p. 2). agricultural pressures in south Florida the majority of the population with The largest remaining intact pine have resulted in significant reductions accompanying protection and rocklands (approximately 2,313 ha of rockland hammock, which is also management of approximately 57,725 (5,716 ac)) is Long Pine Key in ENP. susceptible to fire, frost, hurricane individuals of sand flax (about 78 Outside of ENP, only about 1 percent of damage, and groundwater reduction percent of the estimated onsite the pine rocklands on the Miami Rock (Phillips 1940, p. 167; Snyder et al. population) (Service 2011, p. 13). The Ridge have escaped clearing, and much 1990, pp. 271–272; FNAI 2010, pp. 24– plan will manage 5.95 ha (14.7 ac) of of what is left are small remnants 26). habitat, though most of it is scraped, scattered throughout the Miami Pine rocklands, rockland hammock, and only a small portion has a pine metropolitan area, isolated from other marl prairie, and coastal habitats on canopy (Van der Heiden and Johnson natural areas (Herndon 1998, p. 1). private land remain vulnerable to 2013, p. 2). An additional 1.3 ha (3.2 ac) Similarly, most of the pine rocklands development, which could lead to the is being managed and supports 13,184 in the Florida Keys (Monroe County) loss of populations of these four species. individuals of sand flax (about 18 have been impacted (Hodges and As noted earlier, all four plants have percent of the estimated onsite Bradley 2006, p. 6). Pine rocklands been impacted by development. The population) (Service 2011, p. 13). historically covered 1,049 ha (2,592 ac) sites of Small’s 1907 and 1911 L. Currently there are plans to develop of Big Pine Key (Folk 1991, p. 188), the arenicola collections in Miami-Dade 55 ha (137 ac) of the largest remaining largest area of pine rocklands in the County are now agricultural fields parcel of pine rocklands habitat in Florida Keys. Pine rocklands now cover (Kernan and Bradley 1996, p. 4). A pine Miami-Dade County, the Richmond pine approximately 582 ha (1,438 ac) of the rocklands site that supported L. rocklands, with a shopping center and island, a reduction of 56 percent arenicola on Vistalmar Street in Coral residential construction (RAM 2014, p. (Bradley and Saha 2009, p. 3). There Gables (Miami-Dade County) was 2). Bradley and Gann (1999, p. 4) called were no estimates of pine rocklands area cleared and developed in 2005, as the the 345-ha (853-ac) Richmond pine on the other islands historically, but Cocoplum housing development. A rocklands, ‘‘the largest and most each contained much smaller amounts second pine rocklands site that important area of pine rockland in of the habitat than Big Pine Key. supported L. arenicola, located on Miami-Dade County outside of Remaining pine rocklands on Cudjoe private land on Old Cutler Road, was Everglades National Park.’’ Populations Key cover 72 ha (178 ac), Little Pine has developed into the Palmetto Bay Village of Argythamnia blodgettii and Linum 53 ha (131 ac), No Name has 56 ha (138 Center. L. arenicola has not been arenicola, along with numerous ac), and Sugarloaf has 38 ha (94 ac). The observed at either site since they were federally listed species, occur there. The total area of remaining pine rocklands in developed. A former marl prairie site Miami-Dade County Department of the Florida Keys is approximately 801 supporting a sizable population of L. Environmental Resources Management ha (1,979 ac). Currently, about 478 ha arenicola near Old Cutler Road and (DERM) has completed a management (1,181 ac) (82 percent) of the pine Allapatah Drive (SW 112 Ave3.) in plan for portions of the Richmond pine rocklands on Big Pine Key, and most of Miami-Dade County was extirpated rocklands under a grant from the the pine rocklands on these other when the site was developed in the Service and is leading the restoration islands, are protected within the 1990s (Bradley and van der Heiden and management of the Richmond pine National Key Deer Refuge and 2013, pp. 6–12, 19). The Boca Chica Key rocklands (Bradley and Gann 1999, p. properties owned by the Nature population of L. arenicola was also 4). The developer has proposed to enter Conservancy, the State of Florida, and likely lost due to development (Hodges into a habitat conservation plan in Monroe County (Bradley and Saha 2009, and Bradley 2006, p. 48). conjunction with their plans to develop pp. 3–4). Based on the data presented Bradley and Gann (1999, p. 6) list 12 their portion of the site and was above, the total remaining acreage of populations of Argythamnia blodgettii required by Miami-Dade County Natural pine rocklands in Miami-Dade and in Miami-Dade County that were lost Forest Community (NFC) regulations to Monroe Counties is now 8,981 ha when the site that supported them was set aside and manage 15 ha (39 ac) of (22,079 ac) (approximately 8,140 ha developed. An A. blodgettii population pine rocklands and 2 ha (4 ac) of (20,100 ac) in Miami-Dade County, and on Key West was likely lost due to the rockland hammock. A second project 801 ha (1,979 ac) in the Florida Keys near complete urbanization of the island that would result in the loss of pine (Monroe County)). (Hodges and Bradley 2006, p. 43). Any rocklands habitat is also planned for the

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Richmond pine rocklands. It includes The total area of pine rockland on Big investigated the effects of fragmentation expanding the Miami Zoo complex to Pine Key has decreased by 56 percent on a pine rocklands plant, Angadenia develop an amusement park and large from 1955 to the present (Bradley and berteroi (pineland golden trumpet), retail mall. Saha 2009, p. 3). which is recognized by the State of Approximately 25 percent of extant The human population within Miami- Florida as threatened, and found that Linum arenicola occurrences (3 of 12 Dade County is currently greater than abundance and fragment size were sites), and 44 percent of extant 2.4 million people, and is expected to positively related. Possley et al. (2008, Argythamnia blodgettii occurrences (13 grow to more than 4 million by 2060, an p. 385) studied the effects of fragment of 34 sites), are located on private land; annual increase of roughly 30,000 size on species composition in south no extant populations of Chamaecrista people (Zwick and Carr 2006, p. 20). Florida pine rocklands, and found that lineata var. keyensis or Chamaesyce Overall, the human population in plant species richness and fragment size deltoidea ssp. serpyllum are located Monroe County is expected to increase were positively correlated (although entirely on private land. It is possible from 79,589 to more than 92,287 people some small fragments supported nearly that the plants on private lands will be by 2060 (Zwick and Carr 2006, p. 21). as many species as the largest fragment). lost from most of these sites in the All vacant land in the Florida Keys is Composition of fragmented habitat future with increased pressure from projected to be developed by then, typically differs from that of intact development and the other threats including lands currently inaccessible forests; as isolation and edge effects described below. Argythamnia for development, such as islands not increase, there is increased abundance blodgettii is the only one of the four attached to the Overseas Highway (U.S. of disturbance-adapted species (weedy plants species which occurs in ENP, 1) (Zwick and Carr 2006, p. 14). species, nonnative invasive species) and where a population of over 2,000 plants However, in an effort to address the lower rates of pollination and propagule is stable and prescribed fire and other impact of development on federally dispersal (Laurence and Bierregaard management activities that benefit A. listed species, Monroe County 1997, pp. 347–350; Noss and Csuti 1997, blodgettii are conducted on a regular implemented a habitat conservation pp. 284–299). The degree to which basis. plan (HCP) for Big Pine and No Name fragmentation threatens the dispersal Most pine rocklands and rockland Keys in 2006. In order to fulfill the abilities of Chamaecrista lineata var. hammock habitat is now limited to HCP’s mitigation requirements, the keyensis, Chamaesyce deltoidea ssp. public conservation lands, where future County has been actively acquiring serpyllum, Linum arenicola, and development and habitat alteration are parcels of high-quality pine rocklands, Argythamnia blodgettii is unknown. In less likely than on private lands. such as The Nature Conservancy’s 20- the historical landscape, where pine However, public lands could be sold off acre Terrestris Tract on Big Pine Key, rocklands occurred within a mosaic of (or leased) in the future and become and managing them for conservation. wetlands, water may have acted as a more likely to be developed or altered Although the HCP has helped to limit dispersal vector for all pine rocklands in a way that negatively impacts the the impact of development, land seeds. In the current, fragmented habitat. For example, at the SOCSOUTH development pressure and habitat losses landscape, this type of dispersal would site noted above (leased to DOD by may resume when the HCP expires in no longer be possible for any of the Miami-Dade County), ongoing 2023. If the HCP is not renewed, Miami-Dade populations. While development of headquarters buildings residential or commercial development additional dispersal vectors may SOCSOUTH has resulted in the loss of could increase to pre-HCP levels. include animals and (in certain L. arenicola and pine rocklands habitat While Miami-Dade and Monroe locations) mowing equipment, it is (Bradley and van der Heiden 2013, pp. County both have developed a network likely that fragmentation has effectively 8–10). Construction of visitor facilities of public conservation lands that such as parking lots, roads, trails, and include pine rocklands, rockland reduced these plants’ ability to disperse buildings can result in habitat loss on hammocks, marl prairies, and coastal and exchange genetic material. public lands that are set aside as habitats, much of the remaining habitat While pollination research has not preserves or parks. occurs on private lands as well as been conducted for Chamaesyce Roadside populations of publicly owned lands not managed for deltoidea ssp. serpyllum, Linum Chamaecrista lineata var. keyensis, conservation. Species occurrences and arenicola, and Argythamnia blodgettii, Chamaesyce deltoidea ssp. serpyllum, suitable habitat remaining on these research regarding other species and Linum arenicola, and Argythamnia lands are threatened by habitat loss and ecosystems, including Chamaecrista blodgettii are vulnerable to habitat loss degradation, and threats are expected to lineata var. keyensis (discussed below), and modification stemming from accelerate with increased development. provides valuable information regarding infrastructure projects such as road Further losses will seriously affect the potential effects of fragmentation on widening, and installation of four plant species’ ability to persist in these plants. Effects of fragmentation on underground cable, sewer, and water the wild and decrease the possibility of pollinators may include changes to the lines. The Lower Sugarloaf Key their recovery or recolonization. pollinator community as a result of population of Linum arenicola was limitation of pollinator-required impacted by repaving of the road, which Habitat Fragmentation resources (e.g., reduced availability of placed asphalt on top of and adjacent to The remaining pine rocklands in the rendezvous plants, nesting and roosting the population (Hodges and Bradley Miami metropolitan area are severely sites, and nectar/pollen); these changes 2006, p. 41). fragmented and isolated from each other may include changes to pollinator Although no entire populations of by vast areas of development. community composition, species Chamaecrista lineata var. keyensis or Remaining pine rockland areas in the abundance and diversity, and pollinator Chamaesyce deltoidea ssp. serpyllum Florida Keys are fragmented and are behavior (Rathcke and Jules 1993, pp. have been extirpated by habitat loss due located on small islands separated by 273–275; Kremen and Ricketts 2000, p. to development, the size and extent of ocean. Habitat fragmentation reduces 1227; Harris and Johnson 2004, pp. 30– these populations have been reduced on the size of plant populations and 33). As a result, plants in fragmented Big Pine Key (and surrounding islands increases spatial isolation of remnants. habitats may experience lower visitation for Chamecrista lineata var. keyensis). Barrios et al. (2011, p. 1062) rates, which in turn may result in

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reduced seed production of the of natural fires. Where the term ‘‘fire- hardwoods would result in a hot fire, pollinated plant (which may lead to suppressed’’ is used below, it describes which can kill mature pines. reduced seedling recruitment), reduced degraded pine rocklands conditions Mechanical treatments cannot entirely pollen dispersal, increased inbreeding, resulting from a lack of adequate fire replace fire because pine trees, reduced genetic variability, and (natural or prescribed) in the landscape. understory shrubs, grasses, and herbs all ultimately reduced population viability Historically, frequent (approximately contribute to an ever-increasing layer of (Rathcke and Jules 1993, p. 275; twice per decade), lightning-induced leaf litter, covering herbs and preventing Goverde et al. 2002, pp. 297–298; Harris fires were a vital component in germination, as discussed above. Leaf and Johnson 2004, pp. 33–34). maintaining native vegetation and litter will continue to accumulate even In addition to affecting pollination, ecosystem functioning within south if hardwoods are removed fragmentation of natural habitats often Florida pine rocklands (see Background, mechanically. In addition, the ashes left alters other ecosystems’ functions and above). A period of just 10 years without by fires provide important post-fire disturbance regimes. Fragmentation fire may result in a marked decrease in nutrient cycling, which is not provided results in an increased proportion of the number of herbaceous species due to via mechanical removal. ‘‘edge’’ habitat, which in turn has a the effects of shading and litter Federal (Service, NPS), State (FDEP, variety of effects, including changes in accumulation (FNAI 2010, p. 63). FWC), and County land managers microclimate and community structure Exclusion of fire for approximately 25 (Miami-Dade DERM), and nonprofit at various distances from the edge years will likely result in gradual organizations (IRC) implement (Margules and Pressey 2000, p. 248), hammock development over that time prescribed fire on public and private altered spatial distribution of fire period, leaving a system that is very fire- lands within the ranges of these four (greater fire frequency in areas nearer resistant if additional pre-fire plants. While management of some the edge) (Cochrane 2001, pp. 1518– management (e.g., mechanical County conservation lands includes 1519), and increased pressure from hardwood removal) is not undertaken. regular burning, other lands remain nonnative, invasive plants and animals Today, natural fires are unlikely to severely fire-suppressed. Even in areas that may out-compete or disturb native occur or are likely to be suppressed in under active management, some plant populations. Liu and Koptur the remaining, highly fragmented pine portions are typically fire-suppressed. (2003, p. 1184) reported decreases in rocklands habitat. The suppression of Miami-Dade County: Implementation Chamaecrista lineata var. keyensis’s natural fires has reduced the size of the of a prescribed fire program in Miami- seed production in urban areas of Big areas that burn, and habitat Dade County has been hampered by a Pine Key due to increased seed fragmentation has prevented fire from shortage of resources, as well as by predation, compared with areas away moving across the landscape in a logistical difficulties and public concern from development. natural way. Without fire, successional related to burning next to residential The effects of fragmentation on fire go climax from pine rocklands to rockland areas. Many homes have been built in a beyond edge effects and include hammock is rapid, and displacement of mosaic of pine rocklands, so the use of reduced likelihood and extent of fires, native species by invasive, nonnative prescribed fire in many places has and altered behavior and characteristics plants often occurs. Understory plants become complicated because of (e.g., intensity) of those fires that do such as Chamaecrista lineata var. potential danger to structures and occur. Habitat fragmentation encourages keyensis, Chamaesyce deltoidea ssp. smoke generated from the burns. the suppression of naturally occurring serpyllum, Linum arenicola, and Nonprofit organizations such as IRC fires, and has prevented fire from Argythamnia blodgettii are shaded out have similar difficulties in conducting moving across the landscape in a by hardwoods and nonnatives alike. prescribed burns due to difficulties with natural way, resulting in an increased Shading may also be caused by a fire- permitting and obtaining the necessary amount of habitat suffering from these suppressed pine canopy that has evaded permissions as well as hazard insurance negative impacts. High fragmentation of the natural thinning effects that fire has limitations (Gann 2013a, pers. comm.). small habitat patches within an urban on seedlings and smaller trees. Whether Few private landowners have the means matrix discourages the use of prescribed the dense canopy is composed of pine, or desire to implement prescribed fire fire as well due to logistical difficulties hardwoods, nonnatives, or a on their property, and doing so in a (see ‘‘Fire Management,’’ below). Forest combination, seed germination and fragmented urban environment is fragments in urban settings are also establishment are inhibited in fire- logistically difficult and may be costly. subject to increased likelihood of certain suppressed habitat due to accumulated All occurrences of Linum arenicola types of human-related disturbance, leaf litter, which also changes soil and Argythamnia blodgettii in Miami- such as the dumping of trash (Chavez moisture and nutrient availability (Hiers Dade County are affected by some and Tynon 2000, p. 405). The many et al. 2007, pp. 811–812). This alteration degree of inadequate fire management of effects of habitat fragmentation may to microhabitat can also inhibit seedling pine rocklands and marl prairie habitat, work in concert to threaten the local establishment as well as negatively with the primary threat being the persistence of a species; when a species’ influence flower and fruit production modification and loss of habitat due to range of occurrence is limited, threats to (Wendelberger and Maschinski 2009, an increase in shrub and hardwood local persistence increase extinction pp. 849–851), thereby reducing sexual dominance, eliminating suitable risk. reproduction in fire-adapted species conditions for the four plants, and such as Chamaecrista lineata var. eventual succession to rockland Fire Management keyensis, Chamaesyce deltoidea ssp. hammock. One of the primary threats to serpyllum, L. arenicola, and A. In Miami-Dade County, Linum Chamaecrista lineata var. keyensis, blodgettii (Geiger 2002, pp. 78–79, 81– arenicola occurred along the south edge Chamaesyce deltoidea ssp. serpyllum, 83). of Bauer Drive on the northern border of Linum arenicola, and Argythamnia After an extended period of a pine rockland owned by Miami-Dade blodgettii is habitat modification and inadequate fire management in pine County. The property is occupied by a degradation through inadequate fire rocklands, it becomes necessary to communications tower, and is not a management, which includes both the control invading native hardwoods managed preserve. Kernan and Bradley lack of prescribed fire and suppression mechanically, as excess growth of native (1996) reported eight plants. At the time

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(1992 through 1996), the road shoulder rocklands in the lower Keys have Dade County currently has was dominated by native grasses. Since burned at least every 5 years and approximately 59 pine rocklands then, native canopy hardwoods have sometimes up to three times per decade properties enrolled in this program, invaded the site and eliminated the historically (Albritton 2009, p. 123; preserving 69.4 ha (172 ac) of pine sunny conditions required by L. Horn et al. 2013, pp. 1–67; Harley 2012, rocklands habitat (Johnson 2012, pers. arenicola. It has not been seen since, pp. 1–246). From 1985 to 1992, comm.). The program also has despite multiple surveys between 1997 prescribed burns were conducted in the approximately 21 rockland hammocks and 2012, and is considered to be NKDR mainly for fuel reduction. There properties enrolled in this program, extirpated. L. arenicola was discovered was no prescribed burning by Service preserving 20.64 ha (51 ac) of rockland at Camp Owaissa Bauer by George N. staff in the NKDR from 1992–1997, in hammock habitat (Joyner 2013b, pers. Avery in 1983. Since that time, the pine part because not enough was known comm.). The vast majority of these rocklands habitat where he found the about the ecological effects of prescribed properties are small, and many are in plants in the park suffered extremely fire in this system (Snyder et al. 1990, need of habitat management such as heavy hardwood recruitment due to fire p. 2). prescribed fire and removal of suppression. Despite recent hardwood All occurrences of Chamaecrista nonnative, invasive plants. Thus, while control and reintroduction of fire, no lineata var. keyensis, Chamaesyce EEL covenant lands have the potential plants have been relocated. At the deltoidea ssp. serpyllum, Linum to provide valuable habitat for these Martinez pineland, a population of L. arenicola, and Argythamnia blodgettii plants and reduce threats in the near arenicola in a marl prairie that became in the Florida Keys are affected by some term, the actual effect of these overgrown due to lack of fire has not degree of inadequate fire management of conservation lands is largely determined been observed since 2011. Plants may pine rocklands habitat, with the primary by whether individual land owners reappear at this site if prescribed fire is threat being the modification and loss of follow prescribed EEL management implemented and viable seeds remain in habitat due to an increase in shrub and plans and NFC regulations (see ‘‘Local’’ the soil (Bradley and van der Heiden hardwood dominance, eliminating under Factor D discussion, below). 2013, pp. 8–11). Bradley and Gann suitable conditions for the four plants, Fee Title Properties: In 1990, Miami- (1999, pp. 71–72) suggested that the lack and eventual succession to rockland Dade County voters approved a 2-year of fires in most forest fragments in hammock. property tax to fund the acquisition, Miami-Dade County during the last Prescribed fire management over the protection, and maintenance of natural century may be one of the reasons why past decade has not been sufficient to areas by the EEL Program. The EEL L. arenicola occurs primarily in reverse long-term declines in Program purchases and manages natural disturbed areas. Chamaecrista lineata var. keyensis, lands for preservation. Land uses Chamaesyce deltoidea ssp. serpyllum, deemed incompatible with the Monroe County (Florida Keys): Fire or Linum arenicola on Big Pine Key. protection of the natural resources are management of pine rocklands of the Prescribed fire activity on Big Pine Key prohibited by current regulations; lower Florida Keys, most of which are and adjacent islands within NKDR however, the County Commission within NKDR, is hampered by a appears to be insufficient to prevent loss ultimately controls what may happen shortage of resources, technical of pine rocklands habitat (Carlson et al. with any County property, and land use challenges, and expense of conducting 1993, p. 914; Bergh and Wisby 1996, pp. changes may occur over time (Gil 2013b, prescribed fire in a matrix of public and 1–2; O’Brien 1998, p. 209; Bradley and pers. comm.). To date, the Miami-Dade private ownership. Residential and Saha 2009, pp. 28–29; Bradley et al. County EEL Program has acquired a commercial properties are embedded 2011, pp. 1–16). As a result, many of the total of approximately 313 ha (775 ac) within or in close proximity to pine pine rocklands across NKDR are being of pine rocklands, and 95 ha (236 ac) of rocklands habitat (Snyder et al. 2005, p. compromised by succession to rockland rockland hammocks (Guerra 2015, pers. 2; C. Anderson 2012a, pers. comm.). As hammock (Bradley and Saha 2009, pp. comm.; Gil 2013b, pers. comm.). The a result, hand or mechanical vegetation 28–29; Bradley et al. 2011, pp. 1–16). EEL Program also manages management may be necessary at select approximately 314 ha (777 ac) of pine locations on Big Pine Key (Emmel et al. Conservation Efforts To Reduce the Present or Threatened Destruction, rocklands, and 639 ha (1,578 ac) of 1995, p. 11; Minno 2009, pers. comm.; tropical hardwood and rockland Service 2010, pp. 1–68) to maintain or Modification, or Curtailment of Habitat or Range hammocks owned by the Miami-Dade restore pine rocklands. Mechanical County Parks, Recreation and Open treatments may be less beneficial than Miami-Dade County Environmentally Spaces Department, including some of fire because they do not quickly convert Endangered Lands (EEL) Covenant the largest remaining areas of pine debris to nutrients, and remaining leaf Program: In 1979, Miami-Dade County rocklands habitat on the Miami Rock litter may suppress seedling enacted the Environmentally Ridge outside of ENP (e.g., Larry and development; fire has also been found to Endangered Lands (EEL) Covenant Penny Thompson Park, Zoo Miami stimulate seedling germination (C. Program, which reduces taxes for pinelands, Navy Wells Pineland Anderson 2010, pers. comm.). Because private landowners of natural forest Preserve), and some of the largest mechanical treatments may not provide communities (NFCs; pine rocklands and remaining areas of tropical hardwood the same ecological benefits as fire, tropical hardwood hammocks) who and rockland hammocks (e.g., Matheson NKDR continues to focus efforts on agree not to develop their property and Hammock Park, Castellow Hammock conducting prescribed fire where manage it for a period of 10 years, with Park, Deering Estate Park and possible (C. Anderson 2012a, pers. the option to renew for additional 10- Preserves). comm.). However, the majority of pine year periods (Service 1999, p. 3–177). Conservation efforts in Miami’s EEL rocklands within NKDR are several Although these temporary conservation Preserves have been underway for many years behind the ideal fire return easements provide valuable protection years. In Miami-Dade County, interval (5–7 years) suggested for this for their duration, they are not conservation lands are and have been ecosystem (Synder et al. 2005, p. 2; considered under Factor D, below, monitored by FTBG and IRC, in Bradley and Saha 2011, pp. 1–16). Tree because they are voluntary agreements coordination with the EEL Program, to ring and sediment data show that pine and not regulatory in nature. Miami- assess habitat status and determine any

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changes that may pose a threat to or of refuges are compatible with their the estimated onsite population) based alter the abundance of these species. purposes and the Refuge System’s on 2009 survey data. A conservation Impacts to habitat (e.g., canopy) via wildlife conservation mission. The easement was established over the nonnative species and natural stochastic comprehensive conservation plans protected areas, and DOD has provided events are monitored and actively (CCP) address conservation of fish, funds for management of the site, managed in areas where the taxon is wildlife, and plant resources and their including fencing and nonnative species known to occur. These programs are related habitats, while providing control. long-term and ongoing in Miami-Dade opportunities for compatible wildlife- Summary of Factor A County; however, programs are limited dependent recreation uses. An by the availability of annual funding. overriding consideration reflected in We have identified a number of Since 2005, the Service has funded these plans is that fish and wildlife threats to the habitat of Chamaecrista IRC to facilitate restoration and conservation has first priority in refuge lineata var. keyensis, Chamaesyce management of privately owned pine management, and that public use be deltoidea ssp. serpyllum, Linum rocklands habitats in Miami-Dade allowed and encouraged as long as it is arenicola, and Argythamnia blodgettii County. These programs included compatible with, or does not detract that have operated in the past, are prescribed burns, nonnative plant from, the Refuge System mission and impacting these species now, and will control, light debris removal, hardwood refuge purpose(s). The CCP for the continue to impact them in the future. management, reintroduction of pines Lower Florida Keys National Wildlife Habitat loss, fragmentation, and where needed, and development of Refuges (NKDR, Key West National degradation, and associated pressures management plans. One of these Wildlife Refuge, and Great White Heron from increased human population, are programs, called the Pine Rockland National Wildlife Refuge) provides a major threats; these threats are expected Initiative, includes 10-year cooperative description of the environment and to continue, placing these plants at agreements between participating priority resource issues that were greater risk. All four plants may be landowners and the Service/IRC to considered in developing the objectives impacted when pine rocklands are ensure restored areas will be managed and strategies that guide management converted to other uses or when lack of appropriately during that time. over the next 15 years. The CCP fire causes the conversion to hardwood Although most of these objectives have promotes the enhancement of wildlife hammocks or other unsuitable habitat been achieved, IRC has not been able to populations by maintaining and conditions. Any populations of these conduct the desired prescribed burns, enhancing a diversity and abundance of species found on private property could due to logistical difficulties as discussed habitats for native plants and animals, be destroyed by development; the earlier (see ‘‘Fire Management,’’ above). especially imperiled species that are limited pine rocklands, rockland Connect to Protect Program: Fairchild found only in the Florida Keys. The CCP hammock, and coastal berm habitat on Tropical Botanic Garden (FTBG), with also provides for obtaining baseline data the support of various Federal, State, public lands can also be affected by and monitoring indicator species to and local agencies and nonprofit development of recreational facilities or detect changes in ecosystem diversity organizations, has established the infrastructure projects. Although efforts and integrity related to climate change. ‘‘Connect to Protect Network.’’ The are being made to conserve publicly and The CCP provides specifically for objective of this program is to encourage privately owned natural areas and apply maintaining and expanding populations widespread participation of citizens to prescribed fire, the long-term effects of of candidate plant species, including create corridors of healthy pine large-scale and wide-ranging habitat Chamaecrista lineata var. keyensis, rocklands by planting stepping stone modification, destruction, and Chamaesyce deltoidea ssp. serpyllum, gardens and rights-of-way with native curtailment will last into the future, pine rocklands species, and restoring Linum arenicola, and Argythamnia while ongoing habitat loss due to isolated pine rocklands fragments. By blodgettii, all four of which are found in population growth, development, and doing this, FTBG hopes to increase the this refuge complex. agricultural conversion continues to probability that pollination and seed Department of Defense Lands: The pose a threat. Therefore, based on the dispersal vectors can find and transport Sikes Act requires the DOD to develop best information available, we have seeds and pollen across developed areas and implement integrated natural determined that the threats to the four that separate pine rocklands fragments resources management plans (INRMPs) plants from habitat destruction, to improve gene flow between for military installations across the modification, or curtailment are fragmented plant populations and United States (see also Factor D occurring throughout the entire range of increase the likelihood that these plants discussion, below). INRMPs are the species and are expected to continue will persist over the long term. prepared in cooperation with the into the future. Although these projects may serve as Service and State fish and wildlife Factor B. Overutilization for valuable components toward the agencies to ensure proper consideration Commercial, Recreational, Scientific, or conservation of pine rocklands species of fish, wildlife, and habitat needs. The Educational Purposes and habitat, they are dependent on DOD has an approved INRMP for continual funding, as well as KWNAS on Boca Chica Key that The best available data do not participation from private landowners, includes measures that will protect and indicate that overutilization for both of which may vary through time. enhance Argythamnia blodgettii habitat, commercial, recreational, scientific, or National Wildlife Refuges: The including nonnative species control educational purposes is a threat to National Wildlife Refuge System (DOD 2014, p. 69). Furthermore, DOD is Chamaecrista lineata var. keyensis, Improvement Act of 1997 (16 U.S.C. currently preparing an INRMP for HARB Chamaesyce deltoidea ssp. serpyllum, 668dd note) and the Fish and Wildlife and SOCSOUTH. A previous biological Linum arenicola, or Argythamnia Service Manual (601 FW 3, 602 FW 3) opinion (Service 2011, entire) required blodgettii. Threats to these plants require maintaining biological integrity SOCSOUTH to protect and manage 7.4 related to other aspects of recreation and and diversity, require comprehensive ha (18.3 ac) of pine rocklands habitat similar human activities (i.e., not related conservation planning for each refuge, and 70,909 individuals of Linum to overutilization) are discussed under and set standards to ensure that all uses arenicola (approximately 96 percent of Factor E.

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Factor C. Disease or Predation existing Federal, State, and local Deer Refuge, Key West National Wildlife No diseases or incidences of regulatory mechanisms to determine Refuge, and Great White Heron National predation have been reported for whether they effectively reduce or Wildlife Refuge) and the CCP for the Chamaesyce deltoidea ssp. serpyllum or remove threats to Chamaecrista lineata Crocodile Lake National Wildlife Refuge Argythamnia blodgettii. var. keyensis, Chamaesyce deltoidea provide for Chamaecrista lineata var. Key deer are known to occasional ssp. serpyllum, Linum arenicola, and keyensis, Chamaesyce deltoidea ssp. browse plants indiscriminately, Argythamnia blodgettii. serpyllum, Linum arenicola, and including Chamaecrista lineata var. Federal Argythamnia blodgettii as described above. Linum arenicola occurs on DOD keyensis and Linum arenicola. Key deer As Federal candidate species, the four do not appear to feed on Argythamnia lands at HARB and SOCSOUTH. L. plant species are afforded some arenicola and A. blodgettii occur on blodgettii, probably due to potential protection through sections 7 and 10 of toxicity (Hodges and Bradley 2006, p. Federal lands within the Richmond the Act and associated policies and Pinelands Complex, including lands 19). guidelines. Service policy requires Seed predation by an insect occurs in owned by the U.S. Coast Guard and the candidate species be treated as proposed National Oceanic and Atmospheric Chamaecrista lineata var. keyensis, and species for purposes of intra-Service seems to be exacerbated by habitat Association (NOAA; small portion of consultations and conferences where Martinez Pineland). fragmentation. Individuals at the urban the Service’s actions may affect edge suffer higher insect seed predation As discussed under Factor A, above, candidate species. Other Federal action the DOD has an approved INRMP for than those inside the forest (Liu and agencies (e.g., NPS) are to consider the KWNAS on Boca Chica Key that Koptur 2003, p. 1184). potential effects (e.g., prescribed fire, includes measures that will protect and While seed predation and occasional pesticide treatments) to these plants and enhance Argythamnia blodgettii habitat, Key deer browsing may be a stressor, their habitat during the consultation and including nonnative species control they do not appear to rise to the level conference process. Applicants and (DOD 2014, p. 69). Furthermore, DOD is of threat at this time. Therefore, the best Federal action agencies are encouraged currently preparing an INRMP for HARB available data do not indicate that to consider candidate species when and SOCSOUTH. A 2011 Service disease or predation is a threat to seeking incidental take for other listed biological opinion requires SOCSOUTH Chamaecrista lineata var. keyensis or species and when developing habitat to protect and manage 7.4 ha (18.3 ac) Linum arenicola. conservation plans. However, candidate species do not receive the same level of of pine rocklands habitat and 70,909 Factor D. The Inadequacy of Existing individuals of Linum arenicola Regulatory Mechanisms protection that a listed species would under the Act. (approximately 96 percent of the Under this factor, we examine Populations of Argythamnia blodgettii estimated onsite population) based on whether threats to these plants are within ENP are protected by NPS 2009 survey data. A conservation discussed under the other factors are regulations at 36 CFR 2.1, which easement was established over the continuing due to an inadequacy of an prohibit visitors from harming or protected areas, and DOD has provided existing regulatory mechanism. Section removing plants, listed or otherwise, funds for management of the site, 4(b)(1)(A) of the Act requires the Service from ENP. However, the regulations do including fencing and nonnative species to take into account ‘‘those efforts, if not address actions taken by NPS that control. any, being made by any State or foreign cause habitat loss or modification. Populations of the four plants that nation, or any political subdivision of a Populations of the four plants within occur on State- or County-owned State or foreign nation, to protect such Florida Keys Wildlife Refuge Complex properties and development of these species.’’ In relation to Factor D under benefit from the National Wildlife areas will likely require no Federal the Act, we interpret this language to Refuge System Improvement Act of permit or other authorization. Therefore, require the Service to consider relevant 1997 and the Fish and Wildlife Service projects that affect them on State- and Federal, State, and tribal laws, Manual (601 FW 3, 602 FW 3), which County-owned lands do not have regulations, and other such mechanisms require the Service to maintain Federal oversight, such as complying that may minimize any of the threats we biological integrity and diversity, with the National Environmental Policy describe in threat analyses under the require comprehensive conservation Act (NEPA) (42 U.S.C. 4321 et seq.), other four factors, or otherwise enhance planning for each refuge, and set unless the project has a Federal nexus conservation of the species. We give standards to ensure that all uses of (Federal funding, permits, or other strongest weight to statutes and their refuges are compatible with their authorizations). Therefore, the four implementing regulations and to purposes and the Refuge System’s plants have no direct Federal regulatory management direction that stems from wildlife conservation mission. The CCP protection in these areas. those laws and regulations. An example for a refuge addresses conservation of State would be State governmental actions fish, wildlife, and plant resources and enforced under a State statute or their related habitats, while providing Chamaecrista lineata var. keyensis, constitution or Federal action under opportunities for compatible wildlife- Chamaesyce deltoidea ssp. serpyllum, statute. dependent recreation uses. An Linum arenicola, and Argythamnia Having evaluated the impact of the overriding consideration reflected in blodgettii are listed on the Regulated threats as mitigated by any such these plans is that fish and wildlife Plant Index (Index) as endangered under conservation efforts, we analyze under conservation has first priority in refuge chapter 5B–40, Florida Administrative Factor D the extent to which existing management, and that public use be Code. This listing provides little or no regulatory mechanisms are inadequate allowed and encouraged as long as it is habitat protection beyond the State’s to address the specific threats to the compatible with, or does not detract development of a regional impact species. Regulatory mechanisms, if they from, the Refuge System mission and process, which discloses impacts from exist, may reduce or eliminate the refuge purpose(s). projects, but provides no regulatory impacts from one or more identified The CCP for the Lower Florida Keys protection for State-listed plants on threats. In this section, we review National Wildlife Refuges (National Key private lands.

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Florida Statutes 581.185 sections perpetual covenant. The code requires legal threshold of an NFC, which (3)(a) and (3)(b) prohibit any person that no more than 10 percent of a applies only to land dominated by from willfully destroying or harvesting rockland hammock designated as NFC native vegetation. When development of any species listed as endangered or may be developed for properties greater such degraded NFCs is proposed, threatened on the Index, or growing than 5 acres and that the remaining 90 Miami-Dade County Code requires such a plant on the private land of percent be placed under a perpetual delisting of the degraded areas as part of another, or on any public land, without covenant for preservation purposes the development process. Property first obtaining the written permission of (Joyner 2013a, 2014, pers. comm.; Lima previously designated as NFC is the landowner and a permit from the 2014, pers. comm.). However, for removed from the list even before Florida Department of Plant Industry. properties less than 5 acres, up to one- development is initiated because of the The statute further provides that any half an acre may be cleared if the abundance of nonnative species, making person willfully destroying or request is deemed a reasonable use of it no longer considered to be harvesting; transporting, carrying, or property; this allowance often may be jurisdictional or subject to the NFC conveying on any public road or greater than 20 percent (for pine protection requirements of Miami-Dade highway; or selling or offering for sale rocklands) or 10 percent (for rockland County Code (Grossenbacher 2013, pers. any plant listed in the Index as hammock) of the property (Lima 2014, comm.). endangered must have a permit from the pers. comm.). NFC landowners are also Summary of Factor D State at all times when engaged in any required to obtain an NFC permit for such activities. Further, Florida Statutes any work, including removal of Currently, Chamaecrista lineata var. 581.185 section (10) provides for nonnatives within the boundaries of the keyensis, Chamaesyce deltoidea ssp. consultation similar to section 7 of the NFC on their property. When RER serpyllum, Linum arenicola, and Act for listed species, by requiring the discovers unpermitted work, it takes Argythamnia blodgettii are found on Department of Transportation to notify appropriate enforcement action and Federal, State, and County lands; the FDACS and the Endangered Plant seeks restoration when possible. The however, there is no regulatory Advisory Council of planned highway NFC program is responsible for ensuring mechanism in place that provides construction at the time bids are first that NFC permits are issued in substantive protection of habitat or advertised, to facilitate evaluation of the accordance with the limitations and protection of potentially suitable habitat project for listed plant populations, and requirements of the county code and at this time. NPS and USFWS Refuge regulations provide protection at ENP to provide ‘‘for the appropriate disposal that appropriate NFC preserves are and the Florida Keys Wildife Refuge of such plants’’ (i.e., transplanting). established and maintained in Complex, respectively. The Act However, this statute provides no conjunction with the issuance of an provides some protection for candidate substantive protection of habitat or NFC permit when development occurs. species on NWRs and during intra- protection of potentially suitable habitat The NFC program currently regulates Service section 7 consultations. State at this time. Florida Statutes 581.185 approximately 600 pine rocklands or regulations provide protection against section (8) waives State regulation for pine rocklands/hammock properties, trade, but allow private landowners or certain classes of activities for all comprising approximately 1,200 ha their agents to clear or remove species species on the Index, including the (3,000 ac) of habitat (Joyner 2013, pers. on the Florida Regulated Plant Index. clearing or removal of regulated plants comm.). for agricultural, forestry, mining, State Park regulations provide construction (residential, commercial, Although the NFC program is protection for plants within Florida or infrastructure), and fire-control designed to protect rare and important State Parks. The NFC program in Miami activities by a private landowner or his upland (non-wetlands) habitats in south is designed to protect rare and or her agent. Florida, it is a regulatory strategy with important upland (non-wetlands) limitations. For example, in certain habitats in south Florida; however, this Local circumstances where landowners can regulatory strategy has several In 1984, section 24–49 of the Code of demonstrate that limiting development limitations (as described above) that Miami-Dade County established to 20 percent (for pine rocklands) or 10 reduce its ability to protect the four regulation of County-designated NFCs. percent (for rockland hammock) does plants and their habitats. These regulations were placed on not allow for ‘‘reasonable use’’ of the Although many populations of the specific properties throughout the property, additional development may four plants are afforded some level of County by an act of the Board of County be approved. Furthermore, Miami-Dade protection because they are on public Commissioners in an effort to protect County Code provides for up to 100 conservation lands, existing regulatory environmentally sensitive forest lands. percent of the NFC to be developed in mechanisms have not led to a reduction The Miami-Dade County Department of limited circumstances for parcels less or removal of threats posed to these Regulatory and Economic Resources than 2.02 ha (5 ac) in size and only plants by a wide array of sources (see (RER) has regulatory authority over requires coordination with landowners discussions under Factor A, above, and these County-designated NFCs and is if they plan to develop property or Factor E, below). charged with enforcing regulations that perform work within the NFC provide partial protection of remaining designated area. Therefore, many of the Factor E. Other Natural or Manmade upland forested areas designated as NFC existing private forested NFC parcels Factors Affecting Its Continued on the Miami Rock Ridge. NFC remain fragmented, without Existence regulations are designed to prevent management obligations or preserve Other natural or manmade factors clearing or destruction of native designation, as development has not affect Chamaecrista lineata var. vegetation within preserved areas. been proposed at a level that would keyensis, Chamaesyce deltoidea ssp. Miami-Dade County Code typically trigger the NFC regulatory requirements. serpyllum, Linum arenicola, and allows up to 20 percent of pine Often, nonnative vegetation over time Argythamnia blodgettii to varying rocklands designated as NFC to be begins to dominate and degrade the degrees. Specific threats to these plants developed, and requires that the undeveloped and unmanaged NFC included in this factor consist of the remaining 80 percent be placed under a landscape until it no longer meets the spread of nonnative, invasive plants;

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potentially incompatible management Chamaesyce deltoidea ssp. serpyllum, associated costs, lack of interest, or lack practices (such as mowing and Linum arenicola, and Argythamnia of knowledge of detrimental impacts to herbicide use); direct impacts to plants blodgettii. Dense infestations of the ecosystem. Undiscovered from recreation and other human Neyraudia neyraudia and Schinus populations of the four plants on private activities; small population size and terebinthifolius cause higher fire lands could certainly be at risk. Overall, isolation; effects of pesticide spraying temperatures and longer burning active management is necessary to on pollinators; climate change and sea periods. With the presence of invasive, control for nonnative species and to level rise (SLR); and risks from nonnative species, it is uncertain how protect unique and rare habitats where environmental stochasticity (extreme fire, even under a managed situation, the four plants occur (Snyder et al. weather) on these small populations. will affect these plants. 1990, p. 273). Each of these threats and its specific At least 162 nonnative plant species Management of Roadsides and effect on these plants is discussed in are known to invade rockland Disturbed Areas detail below. hammocks; impacts are particularly severe on the Miami Rock Ridge All four plants occur in disturbed Nonnative Plant Species (Service 1999, pp. 3–135). Nonnative areas such as roadsides and areas that Nonnative, invasive plants compete plant species have significantly affected formerly were pine rocklands. Linum with native plants for space, light, rockland hammocks where arenicola is particularly vulnerable to water, and nutrients, and make habitat Argythamnia blodgettii occurs and are management practices in these areas conditions unsuitable for Chamaecrista considered one of the threats to the because nearly all populations of the lineata var. keyensis, Chamaesyce species (Snyder et al. 1990, p. 273; species are currently found on disturbed deltoidea ssp. serpyllum, Linum Hodges and Bradley 2006, p. 14). In sites. The large L. arenicola population arenicola, and Argythamnia blodgettii, many Miami-Dade County parks, at HARB and SOCSOUTH is located which prefer open conditions. Bradley nonnative plant species comprise 50 largely in areas that are regularly and Gann (1999, pp. 13, 71–72) percent of the flora in hammock mowed. Similarly, the small population indicated that the control of nonnative fragments (Service 1999, pp. 3–135). of L. arenicola at the Everglades Archery plants is one of the most important Horvitz (et al. 1998, p. 968) suggests the Range, which is owned by Miami-Dade conservation actions for these plants displacement of native species by County and managed as a part of Camp and a critical part of habitat nonnative species in conservation and Owaissa Bauer, is growing along the maintenance. preserve areas is a complex problem edges of the unimproved perimeter road Nonnative plants have significantly with serious impacts to biodiversity that is regularly mowed. Finally, the affected pine rocklands, and threaten all conservation, as management in these two populations of L. arenicola on canal occurrences of these four species to areas generally does not protect native banks are subject to mowing, herbicide some degree (Bradley 2006, pp. 25–26; species and ecological processes, as treatments, and revegetation efforts Bradley and Gann 1999, pp. 18–19; intended. Problematic nonnative, (sodding) (Bradley and van der Heiden Bradley and Saha 2009, p. 25; Bradley invasive plants associated with rockland 2013, pp. 8–10). The population of and van der Heiden 2013, pp. 12–16). hammocks include Leucaena Argythamnia blodgettii at Lignumvitae As a result of human activities, at least leucocephala (lead tree), Schinus Key Botanical State Park grows around 277 taxa of nonnative plants have terebinthifolius, Bischofia javanica the perimeter of the large lawn around invaded pine rocklands throughout (bishop wood), Syngonium the residence. Maintenance activities south Florida (Service 1999, p. 3–175). podophyllum (American evergreen), and encroachment of exotic lawn Neyraudia neyraudia (Burma reed) and Jasminum fluminense (Brazilian grasses are potential threats to this Schinus terebinthifolius (Brazilian jasmine), Rubus niveus (mysore population (Hodges and Bradley 2006, pepper) threaten all four species raspberry), Thelypteris opulenta p. 14). At Windley Key State Park, A. (Bradley and Gann 1999, pp. 13, 72). S. (jeweled maiden fern), Nephrolepis blodgettii grows in two quarry bottoms. terebinthifolius, a nonnative tree, is the multiflora (Asian swordfern), Schefflera In the first, larger quarry, to the east of most widespread and one of the most actinophylla (octopus tree), Jasminum the visitor center, plants apparently invasive species. It forms dense thickets dichotomum (Gold Coast jasmine), persist only in natural areas not being of tangled, woody stems that completely Epipremnum pinnatum (centipede mowed. However, the majority of the shade out and displace native vegetation tongavine), and Nephrolepis cordifolia plants are in the farthest quarry, which (Loflin 1991, p. 19; Langeland and (narrow swordfern) (Possley 2013h–i, is not mowed (Hodges and Bradley Craddock Burks 1998, p. 54). Acacia pers. comm.). 2006, p. 15). auriculiformis (earleaf acacia), Management of nonnative, invasive While no studies have investigated Rhynchelytrum repens (natal grass), plants in pine rocklands and rockland the effect of mowing on the four plants, Lantana camara (shrub verbena), and hammocks in Miami-Dade County is research has been conducted on the Albizia lebbeck (tongue tree) are some of further complicated because the vast federally endangered Linum carteri var. the other nonnative species in pine majority of pine rocklands and rockland carteri (Carter’s small-flowered flax, a rocklands. More species of nonnative hammocks are small, fragmented areas close relative of Linum arenicola that plants could become problems in the bordered by urban development. In the also occurs in pine rocklands and future, such as Lygodium microphyllum Florida Keys, larger fragments are disturbed sites). The study found (Old World climbing fern), which is a interspersed with development. significantly higher densities of plants serious threat throughout south Florida. Developed or unmanaged areas that at the mown sites where competition Nonnative plants in pine rocklands can contain nonnative species can act as a with other plants is decreased also affect the characteristics of a fire seed source for nonnatives, allowing (Maschinski and Walters 2007, p. 56). when it does occur. Historically, pine them to continue to invade managed However, plants growing on mown sites rocklands had an open, low understory pine rocklands or rockland hammocks were shorter, which may affect fruiting where natural fires remained patchy (Bradley and Gann 1999, p. 13). magnitude. While mowing did not with low temperature intensity, thus Nonnative plant species are also a usually kill adult plants, if mowing sparing many native plants such as concern on private lands, where often occurred prior to plants reaching Chamaecrista lineata var. keyensis, these species are not controlled due to reproductive status, it could delay

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reproduction (Maschinski and Walters control may include the loss of climatological probabilities, with a 51 2007, pp. 56–57). If such mowing occurs pollinating insects upon which certain percent probability of a hurricane repeatedly, reproduction of those plants plants depend. (Category 1 or 2) and a 21 percent would be entirely eliminated. If, Koptur and Liu (2003, p. 1184) probability of a major hurricane instead, mowing occurs at least 3 weeks reported a decrease in Chamaecrista (Category 3 or higher). From 1856 to after flowering, there would be a higher lineata var. keyensis pollinator activity 2008, Florida experienced 109 probability of adults setting fruit prior to following mosquito spraying on Big hurricanes, 36 of which were mowing; mowing may then act as a Pine Key. Mosquito spraying is common considered major hurricanes. Given the positive disturbance by both scattering on Big Pine Key, and its suppression of few isolated populations and restricted seeds and reducing competition pollinator populations may have a long- range of the four plants in locations (Maschinski and Walters 2007, p. 57). term impact on reproduction rates. prone to storm influences (i.e., Miami- The exact impacts of mowing thus Similar problems with mosquito Dade and Monroe Counties), they are at depend on the timing of the mowing spraying and effects of forest substantial risk from hurricanes, storm event, rainfall prior to and following fragmentation and proximity to homes surges, and other extreme weather mowing, and the numbers of plants in and business may also be impacting events. the population that have reached a Chamaesyce deltoidea ssp. serpyllum Hurricanes, storm surge, and extreme reproductive state. and Linum arenicola (Bradley 2006, p. high tide events are natural events that Herbicide applications, the 36). can pose a threat to the four plants. installation of sod, and dumping may Hurricanes and tropical storms can Environmental Stochasticity affect populations of the four plants that modify habitat (e.g., through storm occur on roadsides, canals banks, and Endemic species whose populations surge) and have the potential to destroy other disturbed sites. Signs of herbicide exhibit a high degree of isolation and entire populations. Climate change may application were noted at the site of the narrow geographic distribution, such as lead to increased frequency and Big Torch Key roadside population of Chamaecrista lineata var. keyensis, duration of severe storms (Golladay et Linum arenicola in 2010 (Hodges 2010, Chamaesyce deltoidea ssp. serpyllum, al. 2004, p. 504; McLaughlin et al. 2002, p. 2). At the L–31 E canal site, plants of Linum arenicola, and Argythamnia p. 6074; Cook et al. 2004, p. 1015). The L. arenicola were lost on the levee close blodgettii, are extremely susceptible to four plants experienced these to Card Sound Road due to the extinction from both random and disturbances historically, but had the installation of Bahia grass (Paspalum nonrandom catastrophic natural or benefit of more abundant and conjugatum) sod in recent years, an human-caused events. Of the four contiguous habitat to buffer them from activity associated with the installation species, Argythamnia blodgettii is extirpations. With most of the historical of new culverts. If similar projects are probably less vulnerable because of the habitat having been destroyed or planned, other erosion control measures larger number of sites where it occurs modified, the few remaining should be investigated that do not pose throughout Miami-Dade and Monroe populations of these plants could face a threat to L. arenicola (Bradley and Van Counties. Small populations of species, local extirpations due to stochastic Der Heiden 2013, p. 10). Illegal without positive growth rates, are events. dumping of storm-generated trash after considered to have a high extinction The Florida Keys were impacted by Hurricane Wilma had a large impact on risk from site-specific demographic and three hurricanes in 2005: Katrina on roadside populations of plants in the environmental stochasticity (Lande August 26, Rita on September 20, and lower Florida Keys (Hodges and Bradley 1993, pp. 911–927). Wilma on October 24. Hurricane Wilma 2006, pp. 11–12, 19, 39). The climate of south Florida is driven had the largest impact, with storm All populations of the four plants that by a combination of local, regional, and surges flooding much of the landmass of occur on disturbed sites are vulnerable global weather events and oscillations. the Keys. In some places this water to regular maintenance activities such as There are three main ‘‘seasons’’: (1) The impounded and sat for days. The mowing and herbicide applications, and wet season, which is hot, rainy, and vegetation in many areas was top-killed dumping. This includes portions of all humid from June through October; (2) due to salt water inundation (Hodges populations of Chamaecrista lineata the official hurricane season that and Bradley 2006, p. 9). Flooding kills var. keyensis and Chamaesyce deltoidea extends one month beyond the wet plants that do not have adaptations to ssp. serpyllum, 10 of 12 Linum season (June 1 through November 30), tolerate anoxic soil conditions that arenicola populations, and 5 of 34 with peak season being August and persist after flooding; the flooding and Argythamnia blodgettii populations. All September; and (3) the dry season, resulting high salinities might also roadside populations are also vulnerable which is drier and cooler, from impact soil seed banks of the four plants to infrastructure projects such as road November through May. In the dry (Bradley and Saha 2009, pp. 27–28). widening and installation of season, periodic surges of cool and dry After hurricane Wilma, the herb layer in underground cable, sewer, and water continental air masses influence the pine rocklands in close proximity to the lines. weather with short-duration rain events coast was brown with few plants having followed by long periods of dry weather. live material above ground (Bradley Pesticide Effects on Pollinators Florida is considered the most 2006, p. 11). Subsequent surveys found Another possible anthropogenic threat vulnerable State in the United States to no Linum arenicola and little to the four plants is current application hurricanes and tropical storms (Florida Chamaecrista lineata var. keyensis or of insecticides throughout these plants’ Climate Center, http://coaps.fsu.edu/ Chamaesyce deltoidea ssp. serpyllum in ranges to control mosquito populations. climate_center). Based on data gathered areas where they previously occurred. Currently, an aerial insecticide (1,2- from 1856 to 2008, Klotzbach and Gray Not only did the storm surge kill the dibromo-2,2-dichloroethyl dimethyl (2009, p. 28) calculated the vegetation, but many of the roadside phosphate) and ground insecticide climatological probabilities for each areas were heavily disturbed by (Permethrin) are applied sometimes as State being impacted by a hurricane or dumping and removal of storm debris frequently as daily in May through major hurricane in all years over the (Bradley 2006, p. 37). Estimates of the November in many parts of south 152-year timespan. Of the coastal States population sizes pre- and post-Wilma Florida. Nontarget effects of mosquito analyzed, Florida had the highest were calculated for Chamaesyce

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deltoidea ssp. serpyllum and combined with additional stress from 34 Argythamnia blodgettii populations Chamaecrista lineata var. keyensis. habitat loss and modification (e.g., have fewer than 100 individuals. These Each declined in the months following inadequate fire management) may small populations are at risk of adverse the storm, by 41.2 percent and 48.0 increase the inherent risk of stochastic effects from reduced genetic variation, percent, respectively (Bradley and Saha events that impact these plants. For an increased risk of inbreeding 2009, p. 2). L. arenicola was not found these reasons, all four plants are at risk depression, and reduced reproductive at all in surveys 8 to 9 weeks after the of extirpation during extreme stochastic output. Many of these populations are hurricane (Bradley 2006, p. 36). The events. Of the four species, small and isolated from each other, Middle Torch Key population was Argythamnia blodgettii is probably less decreasing the likelihood that they extirpated after Hurricane Wilma, and vulnerable because of the larger number could be naturally reestablished in the the population on Big Torch Key of sites where it occurs throughout event that extinction from one location declined drastically, with only one Miami-Dade and Monroe Counties. would occur. Argythamnia blodgettii is individual located. Both of these areas the only one of the four plants species Small Population Size and Isolation were heavily affected by storm surges which occurs in ENP, where a during Hurricane Wilma (Hodges 2010, Endemic species whose populations population of over 2,000 plants is stable p. 2). As of 2013, populations of exhibit a high degree of isolation are and prescribed fire and other Chamaecrista lineata var. keyensis, extremely susceptible to extinction from management activities that benefit A. Chamaesyce deltoidea ssp. serpyllum, both random and nonrandom blodgettii are conducted on a regular and L. arenicola in the Florida Keys catastrophic natural or human-caused basis. have not returned to pre-Hurricane events. Species that are restricted to Climate Change and Sea Level Rise Wilma levels (Bradley et al. 2015, pp. geographically limited areas are 21, 25, 29). inherently more vulnerable to extinction Climatic changes, including sea level Some climate change models predict than widespread species because of the rise (SLR), are occurring in the State of increased frequency and duration of increased risk of genetic bottlenecks, Florida and are impacting associated severe storms, including hurricanes and random demographic fluctuations, plants, animals, and habitats. Our tropical storms (McLaughlin et al. 2002, climate change, and localized analyses under the Act include p. 6074; Cook et al. 2004, p. 1015; catastrophes such as hurricanes and consideration of ongoing and projected Golladay et al. 2004, p. 504). Other disease outbreaks (Mangel and Tier changes in climate. The term ‘‘climate,’’ models predict hurricane and tropical 1994, p. 607; Pimm et al. 1998, p. 757). as defined by the Intergovernmental storm frequencies in the Atlantic are These problems are further magnified Panel on Climate Change (IPCC), refers expected to decrease between 10 and 30 when populations are few and restricted to the mean and variability of different percent by 2100 (Knutson et al. 2008, to a very small geographic area, and types of weather conditions over time, pp. 1–21). For those models that predict when the number of individuals is very with 30 years being a typical period for fewer hurricanes, predictions of small. Populations with these such measurements, although shorter or hurricane wind speeds are expected to characteristics face an increased longer periods also may be used (IPCC increase by 5 to 10 percent due to an likelihood of stochastic extinction due 2013, p. 1450). The term ‘‘climate increase in available energy for intense to changes in demography, the change’’ thus refers to a change in the storms. Increases in hurricane winds environment, genetics, or other factors mean or variability of one or more can elevate the chances of damage to (Gilpin and Soule 1986, pp. 24–34). measures of climate (e.g., temperature or existing canopy and increase storm Small, isolated populations often precipitation) that persists for an surge heights. exhibit reduced levels of genetic extended period, typically decades or All populations of the four plants are variability, which diminishes the longer, whether the change is due to vulnerable to hurricane wind damage. species’ capacity to adapt and respond natural variability, human activity, or Populations close to the coast and all to environmental changes, thereby both (IPCC 2013, p. 1450). A recent populations of the four plants in the decreasing the probability of long-term compilation of climate change and its Florida Keys are vulnerable to persistence (e.g., Barrett and Kohn 1991, effects is available from reports of the inundation by storm surge. Historically, p. 4; Newman and Pilson 1997, p. 361). Intergovernmental Panel on Climate the four plant species may have Very small plant populations may Change (IPCC) (IPCC 2013, entire). benefitted from more abundant and experience reduced reproductive vigor Scientific measurements spanning contiguous habitat to buffer them from due to ineffective pollination or several decades demonstrate that storm events. The small size of many inbreeding depression. Isolated changes in climate are occurring, and populations of these plants makes them individuals have difficulty achieving that the rate of change has been faster especially vulnerable, in which the loss natural pollen exchange, which limits since the 1950s. Examples include of even a few individuals could reduce the production of viable seed. The warming of the global climate system, the viability of a single population. The problems associated with small and substantial increases in destruction and modification of native population size and vulnerability to precipitation in some regions of the habitat, combined with small random demographic fluctuations or world and decreases in other regions. population size, has likely contributed natural catastrophes are further (For these and other examples, see IPCC over time to the stress, decline, and, in magnified by synergistic interactions 2007a, p. 30; Solomon et al. 2007, pp. some instances, extirpation of with other threats, such as those 35–54, 82–85). Results of scientific populations or local occurrences due to discussed above (see Factors A and C). analyses presented by the IPCC show stochastic events. Chamaecrista lineata var. keyensis that most of the observed increase in Due to the small size of some existing and Chamaesyce deltoidea ssp. global average temperature since the populations of Chamaecrista lineata serpyllum both have large populations mid-20th century cannot be explained var. keyensis, Linum arenicola, and on Big Pine Key. The other extant by natural variability in climate, and is Argythamnia blodgettii (see below) and occurrence of Chamaecrista lineata var. ‘‘very likely’’ (defined by the IPCC as 90 the narrow geographic range of all four keyensis in the Florida Keys, on Cudjoe percent or higher probability) due to the plant species, their overall resilience to Key, is small. Five out of 12 extant observed increase in greenhouse gas these factors is likely low. These factors, Linum arenicola populations, and 20 of (GHG) concentrations in the atmosphere

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as a result of human activities, including climate variability and the rate and amount of SLR. This particularly carbon dioxide emissions extremes. Vulnerability is a function of uncertainty increases as projections are from use of fossil fuels (IPCC 2007a, pp. the type, magnitude, and rate of climate made further into the future. For this 5–6 and figures SPM.3 and SPM.4; change and variation to which a species reason, we examine threats to the Solomon et al. 2007, pp. 21–35). Further is exposed, its sensitivity, and its species within the range of projections confirmation of the role of GHGs comes adaptive capacity (IPCC 2007a, p. 89; found in recent climate change from analyses by Huber and Knutti see also Glick et al. 2011, pp. 19–22). literature. (2011, p. 4), who concluded it is There is no single method for The long-term record at Key West extremely likely that approximately 75 conducting such analyses that applies to shows that sea level rose on average percent of global warming since 1950 all situations (Glick et al. 2011, p. 3). We 0.229 cm (0.090 in) annually between has been caused by human activities. use our expert judgment and 1913 and 2013 (National Oceanographic Scientists use a variety of climate appropriate analytical approaches to and Atmospheric Administration models, which include consideration of weigh relevant information, including (NOAA) 2013, p. 1). This equates to natural processes and variability, as uncertainty, in our consideration of approximately 22.9 cm (9.02 in) over the well as various scenarios of potential various aspects of climate change. last 100 years. IPCC (2008, p. 28) levels and timing of GHG emissions, to As is the case with all stressors that emphasized it is very likely that the evaluate the causes of changes already we assess, even if we conclude that a average rate of SLR during the 21st observed and to project future changes species is currently affected or is likely century will exceed the historical rate. in temperature and other climate to be affected in a negative way by one The IPCC Special Report on Emission conditions (e.g., Meehl et al. 2007, or more climate-related impacts, it does Scenarios (2000, entire) presented a entire; Ganguly et al. 2009, pp. 11555, not necessarily follow that the species range of scenarios based on the 15558; Prinn et al. 2011, pp. 527, 529). meets the definition of an ‘‘endangered computed amount of change in the All combinations of models and species’’ or a ‘‘threatened species’’ climate system due to various potential emissions scenarios yield very similar under the Act. If a species is listed as amounts of anthropogenic greenhouse projections of increases in the most endangered or threatened, knowledge gases and aerosols in 2100. Each common measure of climate change, regarding the vulnerability of the scenario describes a future world with average global surface temperature species to, and known or anticipated varying levels of atmospheric pollution (commonly known as global warming), impacts from, climate-associated leading to corresponding levels of global until about 2030. Although projections changes in environmental conditions warming and corresponding levels of of the magnitude and rate of warming can be used to help devise appropriate SLR. The IPCC Synthesis Report (2007, differ after about 2030, the overall strategies for its recovery. entire) provided an integrated view of trajectory of all the projections is one of Global climate projections are climate change and presented updated increased global warming through the informative, and, in some cases, the projections of future climate change and end of this century, even for the only or the best scientific information related impacts under different projections based on scenarios that available for us to use. However, scenarios. assume that GHG emissions will projected changes in climate and related Subsequent to the 2007 IPCC Report, stabilize or decline. Thus, there is strong impacts can vary substantially across the scientific community has continued scientific support for projections that and within different regions of the to model SLR. Recent peer-reviewed warming will continue through the 21st world (e.g., IPCC 2007a, pp. 8–12). publications indicate a movement century, and that the magnitude and Therefore, we use ‘‘downscaled’’ toward increased acceleration of SLR. rate of change will be influenced projections when they are available and Observed SLR rates are already trending substantially by the extent of GHG have been developed through along the higher end of the 2007 IPCC emissions (IPCC 2007a, pp. 44–45; appropriate scientific procedures, estimates, and it is now widely held that Meehl et al. 2007, pp. 760–764, 797– because such projections provide higher SLR will exceed the levels projected by 811; Ganguly et al. 2009, pp. 15555– resolution information that is more the IPCC (Rahmstorf et al. 2012, p. 1; 15558; Prinn et al. 2011, pp. 527, 529). relevant to spatial scales used for Grinsted et al. 2010, p. 470). Taken (See IPCC 2007b, p. 8, for a summary of analyses of a given species (see Glick et together, these studies support the use other global projections of climate- al. 2011, pp. 58–61, for a discussion of of higher end estimates now prevalent related changes, such as frequency of downscaling). in the scientific literature. Recent heat waves and changes in With regard to our analysis for studies have estimated global mean SLR precipitation. Also see IPCC 2011 Chamaecrista lineata var. keyensis, of 1.0–2.0 m (3.3–6.6 ft) by 2100 as (entire) for a summary of observations Chamaesyce deltoidea ssp. serpyllum, follows: 0.75–1.90 m (2.50–6.20 ft; and projections of extreme climate Linum arenicola, and Argythamnia Vermeer and Rahmstorf 2009, p. 21530); events.) blodgettii, downscaled projections 0.8–2.0 m (2.6–6.6 ft; Pfeffer et al. 2008, Various changes in climate may have suggest that SLR is the largest climate- p. 1342); 0.9–1.3 m (3.0–4.3 ft; Grinsted direct or indirect effects on species. driven challenge to low-lying coastal et al. 2010, pp. 469–470); 0.6–1.6 m These effects may be positive, neutral, areas in the subtropical ecoregion of (2.0–5.2 ft; Jevrejeva et al. 2010, p. 4); or negative, and they may change over southern Florida (U.S. Climate Change and 0.5–1.4 m (1.6–4.6 ft; National time, depending on the species and Science Program (USCCSP) 2008, pp. 5– Research Council 2012, p. 2). other relevant considerations, such as 31, 5–32). All populations of the four Other processes expected to be interactions of climate with other plants occur at elevations from 2.83– affected by projected warming include variables (e.g., habitat fragmentation) 4.14 m (9.29–13.57 ft) above sea level, temperatures, rainfall (amount, seasonal (IPCC 2007, pp. 8–14, 18–19). making these plants highly susceptible timing, and distribution), and storms Identifying likely effects often involves to increased storm surges and related (frequency and intensity) (see aspects of climate change vulnerability impacts associated with SLR. ‘‘Environmental Stochasticity’’, above). analysis. Vulnerability refers to the We acknowledge that the drivers of Models where sea surface temperatures degree to which a species (or system) is SLR (especially contributions of melting are increasing also show a higher susceptible to, and unable to cope with, glaciers) are not completely understood, probability of more intense storms adverse effects of climate change, and there is uncertainty with regard to (Maschinski et al. 2011, p. 148). The

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Massachusetts Institute of Technology hydrology and increasing vulnerability tolerance, jeopardizing critically (MIT) modeled several scenarios to storm surge. Hydrology has a strong imperiled or endemic species, or both, combining various levels of SLR, influence on plant distribution in with possible extirpation. In south temperature change, and precipitation coastal areas (IPCC 2008, p. 57). Such Florida, SLR of 1–2 m (3.3–6.6 ft) is differences with human population communities typically grade from salt to estimated by 2100, which is on the growth, policy assumptions, and brackish to freshwater species. From the higher end of global estimates for SLR. conservation funding changes. All of the 1930s to 1950s, increased salinity These projected increases in sea level scenarios, from small climate change contributed to the decline of cabbage pose a threat to coastal plant shifts to major changes, indicate palm forests in southwest Florida communities and habitats from significant effects on coastal Miami- (Williams et al. 1999, pp. 2056–2059), mangroves at sea level to salinity- Dade County. The Science and expansion of mangroves into adjacent intolerant, coastal rockland hammocks Technology Committee of the Miami- marshes in the Everglades (Ross et al. where elevations are generally less than Dade County Climate Change Task 2000, pp. 101, 111), and loss of pine 2.00 m (6.1 ft) above sea level (Saha et Force (Wanless et al. 2008, p. 1) rocklands in the Keys (Ross et al. 1994, al. 2011, p. 2). Loss or degradation of recognizes that significant SLR is a pp. 144, 151–155). In Florida, pine these habitats can be a direct result of serious concern for Miami-Dade County rocklands transition into rockland SLR or in combination of several other in the near future. In a January 2008 hammocks, and, as such, these habitat factors, including diversion of statement, the committee warned that types are closely associated in the freshwater flow, hurricanes, and exotic sea level is expected to rise at least 0.9– landscape. A study conducted in one plant species infestations, which can 1.5 m (3.0–5.0 ft) within this century pine rocklands location on Sugar Loaf ultimately pose a threat to rare plant (Wanless et al. 2008, p. 3). With a 0.9– Key (with an average elevation of 0.89 populations (Saha et al. 2011, p. 24). 1.2 m (3.0–4.0 ft) rise in sea level (above m (2.90 ft)) found an approximately 65 Habitats for these species are baseline) in Miami-Dade County, spring percent reduction in an area occupied restricted to relatively immobile high tides would be at about 1.83–2.13 by South Florida slash pine over a 70- geologic features separated by large m (6.0–7.0 ft); freshwater resources year period, with pine mortality and expanses of flooded, inhospitable would be gone; the Everglades would be subsequent increased proportions of wetland or ocean, leading us to inundated on the west side of Miami- halophytic (salt-loving) plants occurring conclude that these habitats will likely Dade County; the barrier islands would earlier at the lower elevations (Ross et not be able to migrate as sea level rises be largely inundated; storm surges al. 1994, pp. 149–152). During this same (Saha et al. 2011, pp. 103–104). Because would be devastating to coastal habitat time span, local sea level had risen by of the extreme fragmentation of and associated species; and landfill sites 15 cm (6 in), and Ross et al. (1994, p. remaining habitat and isolation of would be exposed to erosion, 152) found evidence of groundwater and remaining populations, and the contaminating marine and coastal soil water salinization. Extrapolating accelerating rate at which SLR is environments. Freshwater and coastal this situation to hardwood hammocks is projected to occur (Grinsted et al. 2010, mangrove wetlands will be unable to not straightforward, but it suggests that p. 470), it will be particularly difficult keep up with or offset SLR of 0.61 m changes in rockland hammock species for these species to disperse to suitable (2.0 ft) per century or greater. With a composition may not be an issue in the habitat once existing sites that support 1.52 m (5.0 ft) rise, Miami-Dade County immediate future (5–10 years); however, them are lost to SLR. Patterns of development will also likely be will be extremely diminished (Wanless over the long term (within the next 10– significant factors influencing whether et al. 2008, pp. 3–4). 50 years), it may be an issue if current SLR projections from various natural communities can move and projections of SLR occur and freshwater scenarios have been downscaled by persist (IPCC 2008, p. 57; CCSP 2008, inputs are not sufficient to maintain TNC (2011; entire) and Zhang et al. pp. 7–6). The plant species face high humidities and prevent changes in (2011; entire) for the Florida Keys. significant risks from coastal squeeze existing canopy species through Using the IPCC best-case, low pollution that occurs when habitat is pressed salinization (Saha et al. 2011, pp. 22– scenario, a rise of 18 cm (7 in) (a rate between rising sea levels and coastal 25). Ross et al. (2009, pp. 471–478) close to the historical average reported development that prevents landward suggested that interactions between SLR above) would result in the inundation of migration of species. The ultimate effect and pulse disturbances (e.g., storm 23,796 ha (58,800 acres) or 38.2 percent of these impacts is likely to result in of the Florida Keys upland area by the surges) can cause vegetation to change reductions in reproduction and survival, year 2100 (TNC 2011, p. 25). Under the sooner than projected based on sea level and corresponding decreases in IPCC worst-case, high pollution alone. population numbers. scenario, a rise of 59 cm (23.2 in) would Impacts from climate change Saha (et al. 2011, p. 4) suggested that result in the inundation of 46,539 ha including regional SLR have been the rising water table accompanying (115,000 acres) or 74.7 percent of the studied for coastal hammocks but not SLR will shrink the vadose zone (the Florida Keys upland area by the year rockland hammock habitat. Saha (et al. area which extends from the top of the 2100 (TNC 2011, p. 25). Using 2011, pp. 24–25) conducted a risk ground surface to the water table); Rahmstorf et al.’s (2007; p. 368) SLR assessment on rare plant species in ENP increase salinity in the bottom portion projections of 100 to 140 cm, 80.5 to and found that impacts from SLR have of the freshwater lens, thereby 92.2 percent of the Florida Keys land significant effects on imperiled taxa. increasing brackishness of plant- area would be inundated by 2100. The This study also predicted a decline in available water; and influence tree Zhang et al. (2011, p. 136) study models the extent of coastal hammocks with species composition of coastal SLR up to 1.8 m (5.9 ft) for the Florida initial SLR, coupled with a reduction in hardwood hammocks based upon Keys, which would inundate 93.6 freshwater recharge volume and an species-level tolerance to salinity or percent of the current land area of the increase in pore water (water filling drought or both. Evidence of population Keys. spaces between grains of sediment) declines and shifts in rare plant Prior to inundations from SLR, there salinity, which will push hardwood communities, along with multi-trophic will likely be habitat transitions related species to the edge of their drought effects, already have been documented to climate change, including changes to (freshwater shortage and physiological) on the low-elevation islands of the

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Florida Keys (Maschinski et al. 2011, p. the north would not be inundated, but existing areas supporting extant 148). pine rocklands in these areas may be populations that could continue to Direct losses to extant populations of reduced through transition to wetter, support a population given a 1.8-m (5.9- all four plants are expected due to more salt-tolerant plant communities, as ft) sea level rise. habitat loss and modification from SLR discussed above. by 2100. We analyzed existing sites that In the Florida Keys, a 0.91-m (3-ft) Conservation Efforts To Reduce Other support populations of the four plants rise would inundate most areas of Big Natural or Manmade Factors Affecting using the National Oceanic and Pine Key and Lower Sugarloaf Key, and Its Continued Existence Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) all of the areas on Upper Sugarloaf Key NPS, the Service, Miami-Dade Sea Level Rise and Coastal Impacts and Big Torch Key, that support Linum County, and the State of Florida have viewer. Below we discuss general arenicola, and reduce these Keys to ongoing nonnative plant management implications of sea level rise within the numerous much smaller islands. The programs to reduce threats on public range of projections discussed above on remaining uplands on these small lands, as funding and resources allow. the current distribution of these species. islands would likely transition to In Miami-Dade County, nonnative, The NOAA tool uses 1-foot increments, buttonwoods and saltmarshes, and invasive plant management is very so the analysis is based on 0.91 m (3 ft) would be extremely vulnerable to active, with a goal to treat all publicly and 1.8 m (6 ft). further losses due to storm surge. This owned properties at least once a year Chamaecrista lineata var. keyensis: A would further reduce and fragment the and more often in many cases. IRC and 0.91-m (3-ft) rise would inundate most populations. A 1.8-m (6-ft) rise would FTBG conduct research and monitoring areas of Big Pine Key, and all areas of completely inundate all areas that in various natural areas within Miami- Cudjoe Key, that support Chamaecrista support Linum arenicola in the Florida Dade County and the Florida Keys for lineata var. keyensis, and reduce both Keys and eliminate all pine rocklands various endangered plant species and Keys to several much smaller islands. habitat within the historic range of the nonnative, invasive species. The remaining uplands on these islands species in Monroe County. Summary of Factor E would likely transition to buttonwoods Argythamnia blodgettii: In Miami- and saltmarshes, and would be Dade County, a 0.91-m (3-ft) rise would We have analyzed threats from other extremely vulnerable to storm surge. not inundate any extant populations of natural or manmade factors including: This will further reduce and fragment Argythamnia blodgettii because these nonnative, invasive plants; management these populations. A 1.8-m (6-ft) rise habitats are located in higher elevation practices used on roadsides and would completely inundate all areas areas along the coastal ridge. However, disturbed sites (such as mowing, that support C. lineata var. keyensis and changes in the salinity of the water table sodding, and herbicide use); pesticide eliminate all pine rocklands habitat and soils, along with additional spraying and its effects on pollinators; within the historic range of the species. vegetation shifts in the region, are environmental stochasticity; effects Chamaesyce deltoidea var. serpyllum: likely. Remaining uplands may likely from small population size and A 0.91-m (3-ft) rise would inundate transition to wetter, more salt-tolerant isolation; and the effects of climate most areas of Big Pine Key that support plant communities. This will further change, including SLR. The related risks Chamaesyce deltoidea var. serpyllum, reduce and fragment the populations. A from hurricanes and storm surge act and reduce the Key to three to five 1.8-m (6-ft) rise would inundate together to impact populations of all much smaller islands. The remaining portions of Crandon Park, making it four plants. Some of these threats (e.g., uplands would likely transition to unsuitable for A. blodgettii. Other areas nonnative species) may be reduced on buttonwoods and saltmarshes, and that support A. blodgettii, including the public lands due to active programs by would be extremely vulnerable to storm Martinez and Richmond pinelands to Federal, State, and county land surge. This will further reduce and the north, and Long Pine Key in ENP, managers. Many of the remaining fragment the population. A 1.8-m (6-ft) would not be inundated, but habitats in populations of these plants are small rise would completely inundate all these areas may be reduced through and geographically isolated, and genetic areas that support C. deltoidea var. transition to wetter, more salt-tolerant variability is likely low, increasing the serpyllum and eliminate all pine plant communities, as discussed above. inherent risk due to overall low rocklands habitat within the historic In the Florida Keys, a 0.91-m (3-ft) resilience of these plants. range of the species. rise would reduce the area of islands in Linum arenicola: In Miami-Dade the upper Keys, but extant populations Cumulative Effects of Threats County, a 0.91-m (3-ft) rise would on Key Largo, Windley Key, and When two or more threats affect inundate the area that supports a large Lignumvitae Key are less vulnerable populations of the four plants, the extant population of Linum arenicola than the Middle and Lower Keys, which effects of those threats could interact or along L–31E canal. While other areas are at lower elevations. Lower become compounded, producing a that support the species are located in Matecumbe Key, Plantation Key, Vaca cumulative adverse effect that is greater higher elevation areas along the coastal Key, Big Pine Key, and Big Munson than the impact of either threat alone. ridge, changes in the salinity of the Island would be fragmented and The most obvious cases in which water table and soils, along with reduced to numerous much smaller cumulative adverse effects would be additional vegetation shifts in the islands. The remaining uplands on these significant are those in which small region, are likely. Remaining uplands small islands would likely transition to populations (Factor E) are affected by may transition to wetter, more salt- buttonwoods and saltmarshes, and threats that result in destruction or tolerant plant communities. This will would be extremely vulnerable further modification of habitat (Factor A). The further reduce and fragment the losses to storm surge. This would limited distributions and small populations. A 1.8-m (6-ft) rise would further reduce and fragment the population sizes of many populations of inundate portions of the largest known populations. A 1.8-m (6-ft) rise would the four plants make them extremely population (HARB), as well the completely inundate all areas that susceptible to the detrimental effects of population along L–31E canal. The areas support Argythamnia blodgettii south of further habitat modification, that support Linum arenicola at the Lignumvitae Key. Key Largo, Windley degradation, and loss, as well as other Martinez and Richmond pinelands to Key, and Lignumvitae Key are the only anthropogenic threats. Mechanisms

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leading to the decline of the four plants, As described in detail above, where it occurs throughout Miami-Dade as discussed above, range from local Chamaecrista lineata var. keyensis, and Monroe Counties. Further, A. (e.g., agriculture) to regional (e.g., Chamaesyce deltoidea ssp. serpyllum, blodgettii is the only one of the four development, fragmentation, nonnative and Linum arenicola are currently at plants species that occurs in ENP, where species) to global influences (e.g., risk throughout all of their range due to a population of over 2,000 plants is climate change, SLR). The synergistic the immediacy, severity, significance, stable and prescribed fire and other effects of threats, such as impacts from timing, and scope of those threats. management activities that benefit A. hurricanes on a species with a limited Impacts from these threats are ongoing blodgettii are conducted on a regular distribution and small populations, and increasing; singly or in basis. Therefore, based on the best make it difficult to predict population combination, these threats place these available information, we find that A. viability. While these stressors may act three plants in danger of extinction. The blodgettii is likely to become an in isolation, it is more probable that risk of extinction is high because the endangered species within the many stressors are acting populations are small, are isolated, and foreseeable future throughout all or a simultaneously (or in combination) on have limited to no potential for significant portion of its range, and we populations of these four plants, making recolonization. Numerous threats are propose to list the species as a them more vulnerable. currently ongoing and are likely to threatened species in accordance with continue in the foreseeable future, at a sections 3(20) and 4(a)(1) of the Act. Proposed Determination high intensity and across the entire Significant Portion of the Range We have carefully assessed the best range of these plants. Furthermore, scientific and commercial data available natural stochastic events and changes in Under the Act and our implementing regarding the past, present, and future climatic conditions pose a threat to the regulations, a species may warrant threats to Chamaecrista lineata var. persistence of these plants, especially in listing if it is endangered or threatened throughout all or a significant portion of keyensis, Chamaesyce deltoidea ssp. light of the fact these events cannot be its range. The threats to the survival of serpyllum, Linum arenicola, and controlled and mitigation measures Chamaecrista lineata var. keyensis, Argythamnia blodgettii. Numerous have yet to be addressed. Individually Chamaesyce deltoidea ssp. serpyllum, populations of all four plants have been and collectively, all these threats can Linum arenicola, and Argythamnia extirpated from these species’ historical contribute to the local extirpation and blodgettii occur throughout these ranges, and the primary threats of potential extinction of these plant species’ ranges and are not restricted to habitat destruction and modification species. Because these threats are any particular significant portion of resulting from human population placing them in danger of extinction those ranges. Accordingly, our growth and development, agricultural throughout their ranges, we have assessment and proposed determination determined that each of these three conversion, and inadequate fire applies to each of the four plants plants meets the definition of an management (Factor A); competition throughout its entire range. Because we endangered species. Therefore, on the from nonnative, invasive species (Factor have determined that Chamaecrista basis of the best available scientific and E); changes in climatic conditions, lineata var. keyensis, Chamaesyce commercial information, we propose to including SLR (Factor E); and natural deltoidea ssp. serpyllum, and Linum list Chamaecrista lineata var. keyensis, stochastic events (Factor E) remain arenicola meet the definition of Chamaesyce deltoidea ssp. serpyllum, threats for existing populations. Existing endangered species, and Argythamnia and Linum arenicola as endangered regulatory mechanisms have not led to blodgettii meets the definition of a species in accordance with sections 3(6) a reduction or removal of threats posed threatened species, throughout their and 4(a)(1) of the Act. We find that to the four plants from these factors (see ranges, no portion of their ranges can be threatened species status is not Factor D discussion, above). These ‘‘significant’’ for purposes of the appropriate for Chamaecrista lineata threats are ongoing, rangewide, and definitions of ‘‘endangered species’’ and var. keyensis, Chamaesyce deltoidea expected to continue in the future. A ‘‘threatened species.’’ See the Service’s ssp. serpyllum, and Linum arenicola significant percentage of populations of SPR Policy (79 FR 37578, July 1, 2014). Chamaecrista lineata var. keyensis, because of the contracted range of each Linum arenicola, and Argythamnia species and because the threats are Available Conservation Measures blodgettii are relatively small and occurring rangewide, are ongoing, and Conservation measures provided to isolated from one another, and their are expected to continue into the future. species listed as endangered or ability to recolonize suitable habitat is Throughout its range, Argythamnia threatened under the Act include unlikely without human intervention, if blodgettii faces threats similar to the recognition, recovery actions, at all. The threats have had and will other three plant species that are the requirements for Federal protection, and continue to have substantial adverse subjects of this proposed rule. However, prohibitions against certain practices. effects on the four plants and their we find that endangered species status Recognition through listing results in habitats. Although attempts are ongoing is not appropriate for A. blodgettii. public awareness, and conservation by to alleviate or minimize some of these While we have evidence of threats Federal, State, Tribal, and local threats at certain locations, all under Factors A, D, and E affecting the agencies; private organizations; and populations appear to be impacted by species, insufficient data are available to individuals. The Act encourages one or more threats. identify the trends in extant cooperation with the States and other The Act defines an endangered populations. Six populations are extant, countries and calls for recovery actions species as ‘‘any species which is in 11 are extirpated, and we are uncertain to be carried out for listed species. The danger of extinction throughout all or a of the status of 14 populations that have protection required by Federal agencies significant portion of its range’’ and a not been surveyed in 15 years or more. and the prohibitions against certain threatened species as ‘‘any species Additionally, data show that the threat activities are discussed, in part, below. which is likely to become an of habitat loss from sea level rise is not The primary purpose of the Act is the endangered species within the as severe for this species. Also, A. conservation of endangered and foreseeable future throughout all or a blodgettii is likely less vulnerable threatened species and the ecosystems significant portion of its range.’’ because of the larger number of sites upon which they depend. The ultimate

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goal of such conservation efforts is the funding for recovery actions will be by the Federal Energy Regulatory recovery of these listed species, so that available from a variety of sources, Commission; construction and they no longer need the protective including Federal budgets, State maintenance of roads or highways by measures of the Act. Subsection 4(f) of programs, and cost share grants for non- the Federal Highway Administration; the Act calls for the Service to develop Federal landowners, the academic and disaster relief efforts conducted by and implement recovery plans for the community, and nongovernmental the Federal Emergency Management conservation of endangered and organizations. In addition, pursuant to Agency. threatened species. The recovery section 6 of the Act, the State of Florida With respect to endangered plants, planning process involves the would be eligible for Federal funds to prohibitions outlined at 50 CFR 17.61 identification of actions that are implement management actions that make it illegal for any person subject to necessary to halt or reverse the species’ promote the protection or recovery of the jurisdiction of the United States to decline by addressing the threats to its the four plants. Information on our grant import or export, transport in interstate survival and recovery. The goal of this programs that are available to aid or foreign commerce in the course of a process is to restore listed species to a species recovery can be found at: commercial activity, sell or offer for sale point where they are secure, self- http://www.fws.gov/grants. in interstate or foreign commerce, or to sustaining, and functioning components Although Chamaecrista lineata var. remove and reduce to possession any of their ecosystems. keyensis, Chamaesyce deltoidea ssp. such plant species from areas under Recovery planning includes the serpyllum, Linum arenicola, and Federal jurisdiction. In addition, for development of a recovery outline Argythamnia blodgettii are only endangered plants, the Act prohibits shortly after a species is listed and proposed for listing under the Act at malicious damage or destruction of any preparation of a draft and final recovery this time, please let us know if you are such species on any area under Federal plan. The recovery outline guides the interested in participating in recovery jurisdiction, and the removal, cutting, immediate implementation of urgent efforts for this species. Additionally, we digging up, or damaging or destroying of recovery actions and describes the invite you to submit any new any such species on any other area in process to be used to develop a recovery information on these plants whenever it knowing violation of any State law or plan. Revisions of the plan may be done becomes available and any information regulation, or in the course of any to address continuing or new threats to you may have for recovery planning violation of a State criminal trespass the species, as new substantive purposes (see FOR FURTHER INFORMATION law. Exceptions to these prohibitions information becomes available. The CONTACT). are outlined in 50 CFR 17.62. With recovery plan also identifies recovery Section 7(a) of the Act requires respect to threatened plants, 50 CFR criteria for review of when a species Federal agencies to evaluate their 17.71 provides that, with certain may be ready for downlisting or actions with respect to any species that exceptions, all of the prohibitions delisting, and methods for monitoring is proposed or listed as an endangered outlined at 50 CFR 17.61 for endangered recovery progress. Recovery plans also or threatened species and with respect plants also apply to threatened plants. establish a framework for agencies to to its critical habitat, if any is Permit exceptions to the prohibitions for coordinate their recovery efforts and designated. Regulations implementing threatened plants are outlined in 50 CFR provide estimates of the cost of this interagency cooperation provision 17.72. implementing recovery tasks. Recovery of the Act are codified at 50 CFR part Preservation of native flora of Florida teams (composed of species experts, 402. Section 7(a)(4) of the Act requires through Florida Statutes 581.185, Federal and State agencies, Federal agencies to confer with the sections (3)(a) and (3)(b), provide nongovernmental organizations, and Service on any action that is likely to limited protection to species listed in stakeholders) are often established to jeopardize the continued existence of a the State of Florida Regulated Plant develop recovery plans. If these four species proposed for listing or result in Index including Chamaecrista lineata plant species are listed, a recovery destruction or adverse modification of var. keyensis, Chamaesyce deltoidea outline, draft recovery plan, and the proposed critical habitat, if designated. ssp. serpyllum, Linum arenicola, and final recovery plan will be available on If a species is listed subsequently, Argythamnia blodgettii, as described our Web site (http://www.fws.gov/ section 7(a)(2) of the Act requires under the Factor D discussion, above. endangered), or from our South Florida Federal agencies to ensure that activities Federal listing would increase Ecological Services Field Office (see FOR they authorize, fund, or carry out are not protection for these plants by making FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT). likely to jeopardize the continued violations of section 3 of the Florida Implementation of recovery actions existence of the species or destroy or Statute punishable as a Federal offense generally requires the participation of a adversely modify its critical habitat. If a under section 9 of the Act. This would broad range of partners, including other Federal action may affect a listed provide increased protection from Federal agencies, States, Tribes, species or its critical habitat, if unauthorized collecting and vandalism nongovernmental organizations, designated, the responsible Federal for the plants on State and private lands, businesses, and private landowners. agency must enter into consultation where they might not otherwise be Examples of recovery actions include with the Service. protected by the Act, and would habitat restoration (e.g., restoration of Federal agency actions within the increase the severity of the penalty for native vegetation), research, captive species’ habitat that may require unauthorized collection, vandalism, or propagation and reintroduction, and conference or consultation or both as trade in these plants. outreach and education. The recovery of described in the preceding paragraph The Service acknowledges that it many listed species cannot be include management and any other cannot fully address some of the natural accomplished solely on Federal lands landscape-altering activities on Federal threats facing Chamaecrista lineata var. because their range may occur primarily lands administered by the Service, NPS, keyensis, Chamaesyce deltoidea ssp. or solely on non-Federal lands. To and Department of Defense; issuance of serpyllum, Linum arenicola, and achieve recovery of these species section 404 Clean Water Act permits by Argythamnia blodgettii, (e.g., requires cooperative conservation efforts the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers; hurricanes, storm surge) or even some of on private, State, and Tribal lands. If construction and management of gas the other significant, long-term threats these four plant species are listed, pipeline and power line rights-of-way (e.g., climatic changes, SLR). However,

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through listing, we could provide that compete with or prey upon for construction of residences, facilities, protection to the known populations Chamaecrista lineata var. keyensis, trails, and roads. and any new population of these plants Chamaesyce deltoidea ssp. serpyllum, (3) Actions that would introduce that may be discovered (see discussion Linum arenicola, or Argythamnia nonnative species that would below). With listing, we could also blodgettii. significantly alter vegetation structure or influence Federal actions that may (6) Release any unauthorized composition. Such activities may potentially impact these plants (see biological control agents that attack any include, but are not limited to, discussion below); this is especially life stage of Chamaecrista lineata var. residential and commercial valuable if these plants are found at keyensis, Chamaesyce deltoidea ssp. development, and road construction. additional locations. With listing, we serpyllum, Linum arenicola, or (4) Application of herbicides, or would also be better able to deter illicit Argythamnia blodgettii. release of contaminants, in areas where collection and trade. (7) Manipulate or modify, without these plants occur. Such activities may We may issue permits to carry out authorization, the habitat of include, but are not limited to, natural otherwise prohibited activities Chamaecrista lineata var. keyensis, resource management, management of involving endangered or threatened Chamaesyce deltoidea ssp. serpyllum, right of ways, residential and plants under certain circumstances. Linum arenicola, or Argythamnia commercial development, and road Regulations governing permits for blodgettii on Federal lands. construction. endangered plants are codified at 50 Questions regarding whether specific Critical Habitat CFR 17.62, and for threatened plants at activities would constitute a violation of 50 CFR 17.72. With regard to Section 3(5)(A) of the Act defines section 9 of the Act should be directed critical habitat as ‘‘(i) the specific areas endangered plants, the Service may to the Field Supervisor of the Service’s issue a permit authorizing any activity within the geographical area occupied South Florida Ecological Services Field by the species, at the time it is listed otherwise prohibited by 50 CFR 17.61 FOR FURTHER INFORMATION Office (see * * * on which are found those for scientific purposes or for enhancing CONTACT). Requests for copies of the propagation or survival of physical or biological features (I) regulations regarding listed species and essential to the conservation of the endangered plants. inquiries about prohibitions and permits It is our policy, as published in the species and (II) which may require should be addressed to the U.S. Fish Federal Register on July 1, 1994 (59 FR special management considerations or and Wildlife Service, Ecological 34272), to identify to the maximum protection; and (ii) specific areas Services Division, Endangered Species extent practicable at the time a species outside the geographical area occupied Permits, 1875 Century Boulevard, is proposed for listing or listed, those by the species at the time it is listed Atlanta, GA 30345 (phone 404–679– activities that would or would not upon a determination by the Secretary 7140; fax 404–679–7081). constitute a violation of section 9 of the that such areas are essential for the If Chamaecrista lineata var. keyensis, Act. The intent of this policy is to conservation of the species. Section 3(3) Chamaesyce deltoidea ssp. serpyllum, increase public awareness of the effect of the Act defines conservation as to use Linum arenicola, and Argythamnia of a proposed listing on proposed and and the use of all methods and blodgettii are listed under the Act, the ongoing activities within the range of procedures which are necessary to bring State of Florida’s Endangered Species species proposed for listing. Based on any endangered species or threatened Act (Florida Statutes 581.185) is the best available information, the species to the point at which the automatically invoked, which would following actions would be unlikely to measures provided pursuant to the Act also prohibit take of these plants and result in a violation of section 9, if these are no longer necessary.’’ encourage conservation by State activities were carried out in accordance Section 4(a)(3) of the Act, as government agencies. Further, the State with existing regulations and permit amended, and implementing regulations may enter into agreements with Federal requirements; this list is not (50 CFR 424.12), require that, to the agencies to administer and manage any comprehensive: maximum extent prudent and (1) Import any such species into, or area required for the conservation, determinable, the Secretary will export any of the four plant species management, enhancement, or designate critical habitat at the time the from, the United States. protection of endangered species species is determined to be an (2) Remove and reduce to possession (Florida Statutes 581.185). Funds for endangered or threatened species. Our any of the four plant species from areas these activities could be made available regulations (50 CFR 424.12(a)(1)) state under Federal jurisdiction; maliciously under section 6 of the Act (Cooperation that the designation of critical habitat is damage or destroy any of the four plant with the States). Thus, the Federal not prudent when one or both of the species on any such area; or remove, protection afforded to these plants by following situations exist: cut, dig up, or damage or destroy any of listing them as endangered species (1) The species is threatened by taking the four plant species on any other area would be reinforced and supplemented or other human activity, and in knowing violation of any law or by protection under State law. identification of critical habitat can be regulation of any State or in the course Activities that the Service believes expected to increase the degree of threat of any violation of a State criminal could potentially harm these four plants to the species, or trespass law. include, but are not limited to: (2) Such designation of critical habitat (3) Deliver, receive, carry, transport, (1) Actions that would significantly would not be beneficial to the species. or ship in interstate or foreign alter the hydrology or substrate, such as There is currently no imminent threat commerce, by any means whatsoever ditching or filling. Such activities may of take attributed to collection or and in the course of a commercial include, but are not limited to, road vandalism under Factor B for these activity, any of the four plant species. construction or maintenance, and species, and identification and mapping (4) Sell or offer for sale in interstate residential, commercial, or recreational of critical habitat is not expected to or foreign commerce any of the four development. initiate any such threat. Therefore, in plant species. (2) Actions that would significantly the absence of finding that the (5) Introduce any nonnative wildlife alter vegetation structure or designation of critical habitat would or plant species to the State of Florida composition, such as clearing vegetation increase threats to a species, if there are

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any benefits to a critical habitat required analysis of the impacts of the References Cited designation, a finding that designation designation is currently lacking. is prudent is warranted. Here, the A complete list of references cited in Required Determinations this rulemaking is available on the potential benefits of designation Internet at http://www.regulations.gov include: (1) Triggering consultation Clarity of the Rule and upon request from the South under section 7 of the Act, in new areas We are required by Executive Orders Florida Ecological Services Field Office for actions in which there may be a 12866 and 12988 and by the (see FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT). Federal nexus where it would not Presidential Memorandum of June 1, otherwise occur because, for example, it 1998, to write all rules in plain Authors is unoccupied; (2) focusing conservation language. This means that each rule we The primary authors of this proposed activities on the most essential features publish must: rule are the staff members of the South and areas; (3) providing educational (1) Be logically organized; Florida Ecological Services Field Office. benefits to State or county governments (2) Use the active voice to address or private entities; and (4) preventing readers directly; List of Subjects in 50 CFR Part 17 people from causing inadvertent harm (3) Use clear language rather than Endangered and threatened species, to these species. jargon; (4) Be divided into short sections and Exports, Imports, Reporting and Because we have determined that the sentences; and recordkeeping requirements, designation of critical habitat will not (5) Use lists and tables wherever Transportation. likely increase the degree of threat to the possible. species and may provide some measure If you feel that we have not met these Proposed Regulation Promulgation of benefit, we determine that requirements, send us comments by one Accordingly, we propose to amend designation of critical habitat is prudent of the methods listed in the ADDRESSES part 17, subchapter B of chapter I, title for Chamaecrista lineata var. keyensis, section. To better help us revise the 50 of the Code of Federal Regulations, Chamaesyce deltoidea ssp. serpyllum, rule, your comments should be as as set forth below: Linum arenicola, and Argythamnia specific as possible. For example, you blodgettii. should tell us the numbers of the PART 17—[AMENDED] sections or paragraphs that are unclearly Our regulations (50 CFR 424.12(a)(2)) written, which sections or sentences are ■ 1. The authority citation for part 17 further state that critical habitat is not too long, the sections where you feel continues to read as follows: determinable when one or both of the lists or tables would be useful, etc. following situations exists: (1) Authority: 16 U.S.C. 1361–1407; 1531– Information sufficient to perform National Environmental Policy Act (42 1544; and 4201–4245, unless otherwise required analysis of the impacts of the U.S.C. 4321 et seq.) noted. designation is lacking; or (2) the We have determined that ■ 2. Amend § 17.12(h) by adding entries biological needs of the species are not environmental assessments and for Argythamnia blodgettii, sufficiently well known to permit environmental impact statements, as Chamaecrista lineata var. keyensis, identification of an area as critical defined under the authority of the Chamaesyce deltoidea ssp. serpyllum, habitat. On the basis of a review of National Environmental Policy Act, and Linum arenicola, in alphabetical available information, we find that need not be prepared in connection order under FLOWERING PLANTS, to critical habitat for Chamaecrista lineata with listing a species as an endangered the List of Endangered and Threatened var. keyensis, Chamaesyce deltoidea or threatened species under the Act. We Plants to read as set forth below: ssp. serpyllum, Linum arenicola, and published a notice outlining our reasons Argythamnia blodgettii is not for this determination in the Federal § 17.12 Endangered and threatened plants. determinable because the specific Register on October 25, 1983 (48 FR * * * * * information sufficient to perform the 49244). (h) * * *

Species Historic range Family Status When Critical Special Scientific name Common name listed habitat rules

FLOWERING PLANTS

******* Argythamnia blodgettii ...... Blodgett’s silverbush ...... U.S.A. (FL) .... Euphorbiacea- T ...... NA ...... NA e.

******* Chamaecrista lineata var. Big Pine partridge pea ...... U.S.A. (FL) .... Fabaceae ...... E ...... NA ...... NA keyensis.

******* Chamaesyce deltoidea ssp. Wedge spurge ...... U.S.A. (FL) .... Euphorbiacea- E ...... NA ...... NA serpyllum. e.

******* Linum arenicola ...... Sand flax ...... U.S.A. (FL) .... Linaceae ...... E ...... NA ...... NA

*******

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* * * * * Dated: September 9, 2015. Stephen Guertin, Acting Director, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. [FR Doc. 2015–24291 Filed 9–28–15; 8:45 am] BILLING CODE 4310–55–P

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