Tocantins Homalolepis (Homalolepis tocantina)
Silhouette: T. Michael Keesey
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Homalolepis tocantina: Botanical Analysis and Cerrado Habitat
Thriving in the unique ecosystems of the Brazilian Cerrado, Homalolepis tocantina grows as a wild woody species named after the region of its discovery. This plant is well-adapted to the seasonal climate of the savanna biomes of central Brazil.
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 tocantina (Tocantins Homalolepis)
Morphology
Adapted to the seasonal conditions of the Cerrado, this species develops a woody habit, growing as a sturdy shrub or small tree. Its structural features help it conserve moisture during dry periods.
- Leaves: The alternate, pinnately compound leaves are thick and coriaceous, which helps reduce water loss.
- Flowers: The small flowers are clustered in dense terminal inflorescences that attract native insect pollinators.
- Fruit: The plant produces drupes that mature after the flowering season.
Applications
This species produces bitter secondary metabolites, including quassinoids, which are characteristic of its genus and play a role in its adaptation to the Cerrado environment.
- Biomedical Interest: The bitter principles found in the tissues are analyzed for potential anti-malarial and anti-inflammatory research applications.
- Defense Mechanisms: The presence of quassinoids acts as a chemical deterrent against herbivorous insects.
Interesting facts
The species presents unique geographic and ecological connections:
- Geographical Epithet: The species name tocantina directly references its origin in the Tocantins region of Brazil.
- Fire Adaptation: Growing in the Cerrado biome, it is adapted to survive the periodic wildfires that characterize the Brazilian savanna.
- Taxonomic Reclassification: It was segregated from the genus Quassia during the taxonomic reorganization of the group.
Geography of distribution
- Brazil
Sources
- Plants of the World Online (POWO), Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew
- Global Biodiversity Information Facility (GBIF)
- World Flora Online (WFO)
- Tropicos, Missouri Botanical Garden