Calliandra calothyrsus
Calliandra calothyrsus · Accepted scientific name
Scientific literature: Very Sparse (0 studies) · ★☆☆☆☆
Calliandra calothyrsus is a versatile legume widely utilized as a high-quality protein source in various animal diets. When processed into forms such as leaf meal, it serves as a functional ingredient to enhance livestock nutrition. However, the presence of condensed tannins within the plant can influence physiological responses and overall feed intake. Research focuses on how these chemical compounds interact with rumen fungi and affect the animal's ability to achieve optimal weight gains. Balancing these nutritional benefits and anti-nutritional factors is essential for effective dietary formulation.
- Synonyms
- Anneslia Acapulcensis · Anneslia Similis · 8 more
- Common names
- Not available
- Family
- Fabaceae
- Distribution
- Not available
- Plant Parts
- Not available
Classification
Common Names
Calliandra calothyrsus is a versatile plant known by several distinct names depending on the region and language. In many English-speaking areas, it is frequently referred to as calliandra or the red calliandra due to its vibrant blooms. Local Spanish speakers often call the species Barba de chivo or Cabello de ángel. Interestingly, the plant also carries the specific Thai name พู่จอมพลใบฝอย. These diverse common names highlight the global presence and cultural variety associated with this beautiful shrub.
Sources: Catalogue of Life (COL)
Synonyms
Calliandra calothyrsus is a botanical species that has been identified through various scientific names throughout history. Its taxonomic journey includes several recognized synonyms, such as Anneslia acapulcensis and Anneslia calothyrsa. Researchers have also documented the plant under the names Anneslia confusa and Anneslia similis. Additionally, the nomenclature includes the variation known as Calliandra acapulcensis. Understanding these overlapping relationships is essential for accurate botanical classification and identification.
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Taxonomy
Calliandra calothyrsus is a remarkable botanical specimen belonging to the kingdom Plantae. Within this vast realm, it is specifically classified under the class Equisetopsida. The plant's evolutionary lineage continues through its placement in the order Fabales. It further distinguishes itself as a member of the diverse Fabaceae family. Ultimately, this species is defined by its membership in the genus Calliandra.
| Rank | Classification |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Streptophyta |
| Class | Equisetopsida |
| Subclass | Magnoliidae |
| Order | Fabales |
| Family | Fabaceae |
| Genus | Calliandra |
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Distribution
Geographic Regions
Calliandra calothyrsus exhibits a diverse geographic range that spans across several key tropical regions. In Asia, it is widely distributed throughout the Indian Subcontinent, including specific populations in India and Bangladesh. The plant also extends its reach into Indo-China, particularly within Myanmar, and reaches the Malesia region in Jawa. Beyond the Asian continent, its presence is noted in North America, specifically around the Mexico Gulf area. This broad distribution highlights the plant's ability to adapt to various tropical and subtropical environments.
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Identification
Biological Activities
Compounds
Calliandra calothyrsus is a tropical forage legume known to contain significant levels of condensed tannins. These tannins play a complex role in the rumen by interacting with both nutrients and microbial populations. Research indicates that while these compounds can protect dietary protein from degradation, they also cause shifts in certain cellulolytic bacteria. Furthermore, the tannins can complex with fiber, potentially creating "artifact" fiber during the digestion process. Ultimately, although these condensed tannins influence the digestive environment, they do not necessarily result in overall detrimental effects on nitrogen absorption in sheep and goats.
Conditions
Calliandra calothyrsus impacts the weight of birds, with studies showing that live weight gains decrease as inclusion levels increase. The plant also affects the efficiency of feed utilization, which tends to decrease as more foliage is added to the diet. Regarding egg production and egg weights, research indicates that the inclusion of the leaf meal does not result in significant changes to either egg number or size. Furthermore, the plant's effect on the efficiency of microbial protein synthesis in the rumen was found to be not significantly altered. Together, these factors demonstrate the varied physiological responses of livestock to Calliandra calothyrsus supplementation.
Preparations
Calliandra calothyrsus is prepared as diets for various livestock species, including sheep, goats, and laying hens. In studies involving ruminants, the plant is incorporated into a basal diet of pangola grass to analyze the effects of its condensed tannins on digestion. For poultry, Calliandra calothyrsus is prepared as leaf meal and included in rations at specific percentages to observe its impact on egg production and yolk pigmentation. These dietary inclusions demonstrate that the plant can be used to influence nutrient utilization and physical characteristics in animal products. Consequently, the plant serves as a functional component when processed into leaf meal for nutritional experimentation.