Blood-red Quassia (Quassia sanguinea)

Quassia sanguinea - Botanical Profile and Ecological Importance

Found in the moist forest ecosystems of West-Central Africa, this rare woody species plays a unique role in its native habitats. It grows primarily as an understory tree or shrub within dense tropical environments.

Due to ongoing environmental pressures, its populations face significant ecological challenges. Conservation efforts remain crucial to understanding and preserving this taxon in the wild.

Taxonomy

  • ∟ царство Plantae
  • ∟ division Tracheophytes
  • ∟ subdivision Spermatophytes (Seed plants)
  • ∟ Angiosperms
  • ∟ mesangiosperms
  • ∟ eudicots
  • ∟ Superrosids
  • ∟ rosids
  • ∟ malvids
  • ∟ order Sapindales
  • ∟ family Simaroubaceae (Quassia family)
  • ∟ genus Quassia (Quassia Wood)
  • ∟ species Quassia sanguinea (Blood-red Quassia)

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Morphology

This woody plant typically develops as a small tree or large shrub. Like other members of its genus, it features distinctive characteristics:

  • Foliage: Alternate, pinnately compound leaves with a slightly winged rachis.
  • Flowers: Small, clustered inflorescences that are typically reddish or pinkish in color.
  • Wood and Bark: Highly bitter tissues containing specialized secondary metabolites such as quassinoids.

Applications

While this specific species is primarily studied for its ecological role and taxonomic significance, the genus is well-known for producing natural bitter compounds. These metabolites have historically found utility in traditional practices and biochemical research.

Interesting facts

The species name sanguinea refers to the reddish coloration observed in parts of the plant, such as its flowers or young shoots. It occupies a very narrow ecological niche in West-Central Africa, making it a subject of interest for evolutionary biologists.

Geography of distribution

  • Cameroon
  • Nigeria

Sources

  • POWO (Plants of the World Online)
  • WFO (World Flora Online)
  • GBIF (Global Biodiversity Information Facility)
  • IUCN Red List of Threatened Species

Technical Information

Taxon Synonyms: Hannoa ferruginea

External Databases: GBIF, POWO, Tropicos

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