Agelaea pentagyna

Agelaea pentagyna · Accepted scientific name

Scientific literature: Very Sparse (0 studies) · ★☆☆☆☆

Agelaea pentagyna is a distinctive botanical species known for its unique biological characteristics. This plant belongs to a diverse group of flora that contributes significantly to its native ecosystem. Researchers have identified specific chemical constituents within the species, most notably the flavonoid known as tricin. The presence of such compounds highlights the complex phytochemical profile inherent to this plant. Understanding these chemical properties offers valuable insights into the evolutionary adaptations of Agelaea pentagyna.

Quick facts
Synonyms
Agelaea Baronii · Agelaea Katangensis · 64 more
Common names
Not available
Family
Connaraceae
Distribution
Northern America
Plant Parts
Not available

Classification

Synonyms

Agelaea pentagyna is a plant species that is frequently identified by several different botanical names in scientific literature. Due to various taxonomic classifications, it is recognized by multiple synonyms including Agelaea annobonensis and Agelaea australis. Researchers also refer to this species through the names Agelaea baronii and Agelaea claessensii. Furthermore, the designation Agelaea coccinea serves as another valid synonym within its complex botanical history. Understanding these overlapping names is essential for accurate identification and study of the species.

Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)

Taxonomy

Agelaea pentagyna is a distinctive member of the kingdom Plantae. This botanical species is classified under the class Equisetopsida and belongs to the order Oxalidales. Within this taxonomic structure, it is specifically situated in the family Connaraceae. Furthermore, it is identified as a representative of the genus Agelaea. Through these relationships, the plant's unique place in the natural world is clearly defined.

Rank Classification
Kingdom Plantae
Phylum Streptophyta
Class Equisetopsida
Subclass Magnoliidae
Order Oxalidales
Family Connaraceae
Genus Agelaea

Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)

Distribution

Geographic Regions

Agelaea pentagyna is a botanical species with a broad presence across the African continent. Its distribution spans much of East Tropical Africa, including specific populations found in Kenya, Tanzania, and Uganda. The plant also extends into Northeast Tropical Africa, where it can be located within the regions of Sudan and South Sudan. Furthermore, its reach continues southward into the tropical landscapes of Angola. This wide geographic range highlights the plant's ability to thrive in diverse African environments.

Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)

Identification

Morphology

Agelaea pentagyna is a distinctive plant characterized by its shrub growth form. It exhibits an obligatory climbing habit, relying on other structures to ascend toward the light. Depending on its specific environmental conditions, the plant can reach varying dimensions. While it may stay relatively small, it has the potential to achieve a maximum height of approximately 16.86 meters.

Sources: Global Inventory of Floras and Traits (GIFT)

Biological Activities

Compounds

Agelaea pentagyna is a Malagasy connaraceous plant that serves as a significant source of bioactive compounds. Through the process of bioassay-guided separation, researchers successfully isolated a specific flavonoid known as tricin from this species. This particular compound demonstrates potent inhibitory activity against exocytosis in antigen-stimulated rat leukemia basophils. Such findings highlight the plant's potential due to the strong antihistaminic properties exhibited by its constituents. Consequently, the study provides valuable insights into the structure-activity relationships of these natural flavonoids.

Conditions

Agelaea pentagyna contains a specific flavonoid known as tricin that exhibits potent antihistaminic properties. Through bioassay-guided separation of this Malagasy plant, researchers identified tricin as the active compound responsible for its effects. This isolated flavonoid demonstrates a significant ability to inhibit exocytosis from antigen-stimulated rat leukemia basophils (RBL-2H3). The study further explores how the chemical structure of this substance influences its inhibitory activity. Consequently, the plant serves as a valuable source for discovering compounds that regulate basophil responses.

Preparations

Parts used