15 Hawaii animals, plants added to endangered list
The federal government says an eyeless shrimp and 14 other Hawaii creatures and plants have been added to the endangered species list.
The Honolulu Star-Advertiser reports () the anchialine pool shrimp is among the most primitive shrimp species in the world. The creatures are 2 inches long with 2-inch antennae. They live in landlocked pools with subterranean connections to the sea.
The other newly listed creature is Drosophila digressa, commonly known as the picture-wing fly.
Among the 13 plants listed is kookoolau. The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service says it traditionally was used to treat infections and other ailments.
All 15 new listings are native to the Big Island.
Fish and Wildlife Service spokesman Ken Foote says Hawaii has more endangered species than any other state.
A listing gives species protections that are designed to keep them from extinction.
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