Tala hackberry chichape (Celtis tala var. chichape)

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Celtis tala var. chichape - Botanical Information

Recorded as a recognized taxonomic variation of Celtis tala, this plant adds to the extensive diversity of its parent species.

Botanists classify it as a distinct variety, which underscores the complex genetic and morphological variations present in wild plant populations.

Taxonomy

  • царство Plantae
  • division Tracheophytes (Vascular Plants)
  • subdivision Spermatophytes (Seed plants)
  • Angiosperms
  • mesangiosperms
  • eudicots
  • Superrosids
  • rosids
  • order Rosales
  • family Cannabaceae (Hemp family)
  • genus Celtis (Hackberry)
  • species Celtis tala (Tala tree)
  • variety Celtis tala var. chichape (Tala hackberry chichape)

Living Pulse

Morphology

It exhibits a predominantly arborescent or tall shrubby habit, frequently with a tortuous trunk covered by markedly rough bark. Younger branches are usually strongly armed with prominent axillary thorns, representing an efficient evolutionary and defensive adaptation against constant browsing by herbivores.

The foliage consists of leaves with a slightly rough texture to the touch and evident basal venation. Upon reaching the fruiting stage, it develops globose drupes that acquire striking warm hues during maturation.

Interesting facts

The distinctive taxonomic epithet chichape reflects local traditional names historically used in different regions of the subcontinent to refer to this specific type of thorny vegetation.

Its dense and intricate branching structure provides ideal nesting sites for numerous native bird species, significantly increasing the conservation value of the forest patches it inhabits.

Geography of distribution

  • Argentina
  • Paraguay
  • Bolivia

Sources

  • Plants of the World Online (POWO)
  • Global Biodiversity Information Facility (GBIF)
  • Tropicos

Technical Information

External Databases: GBIF, POWO, Tropicos

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