Cavalcante's homalolepis (Homalolepis cavalcantei)
Silhouette: T. Michael Keesey
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Homalolepis cavalcantei: Endangered Amazonian Shrub
Amazonian white-sand vegetation, known locally as campinarana, supports rare and highly specialized species. Deep within the state of Pará, Homalolepis cavalcantei survives in these nutrient-poor, sandy habitats. It is currently recognized as an endangered species facing threats from habitat loss.
Botanists initially described this species under the genus Simarouba in the late twentieth century. It was later moved to the genus Homalolepis during a taxonomic realignment of South American taxa.
Taxonomy
- ∟ царство Plantae
- ∟ division Tracheophytes
- ∟ subdivision Spermatophytes (Seed plants)
- ∟ Angiosperms
- ∟ mesangiosperms
- ∟ eudicots
- ∟ Superrosids
- ∟ rosids
- ∟ malvids
- ∟ order Sapindales
- ∟ family Simaroubaceae (Quassia family)
- ∟ genus Homalolepis (Homalolepis Tree)
- ∟ species Homalolepis cavalcantei (Cavalcante's homalolepis)
Morphology
The harsh conditions of white-sand habitats shape the morphology of this species. Key characteristics include:
- Habit: Grows as a woody shrub or medium-sized tree.
- Foliage: Features alternate pinnate leaves adapted to low-nutrient soils.
- Inflorescences: Small, unisexual flowers cluster in panicles.
- Fruits: Fleshy drupes contain a single seed.
Applications
Conservation efforts represent the primary focus for this rare species:
- Biodiversity Preservation: Serves as an indicator species for the health of fragile campinarana ecosystems.
- Ecological Protection: Helps maintain food webs for specialized Amazonian insects.
Interesting facts
The history and status of this species highlight its importance:
- Commemorative Name: The specific epithet honors Paulo Cavalcante, a prominent researcher of Amazonian botany.
- Conservation Priority: Classified as endangered due to its highly restricted range and habitat destruction.
Geography of distribution
- Pará
Sources
- Plants of the World Online (POWO)
- World Flora Online (WFO)
- Global Biodiversity Information Facility (GBIF)
- IUCN Red List of Threatened Species