Casearia obliqua
Casearia obliqua · Accepted scientific name
Scientific literature: Very Sparse (1 studies) · ★☆☆☆☆
Casearia obliqua is a botanical species that has garnered scientific interest due to its diverse chemical profile. Research into its leaves has led to the development of a bioactive hexane extract, while the twigs yield a crude bioactive EtOH extract. These preparations have demonstrated significant cytotoxic activities in various biological assays. Chemical analysis of the plant reveals the presence of essential elements including bromine, calcium, cobalt, and chromium. Consequently, this species represents a promising subject for further pharmacological investigation.
- Synonyms
- Samyda Selloi · Casearia Montana · 2 more
- Common names
- Not available
- Family
- Salicaceae
- Distribution
- Not available
- Plant Parts
- Leaf
Classification
Common Names
Casearia obliqua is a distinctive botanical species widely recognized by its common name, Guaçatunga-vermelha. This name reflects the plant's unique characteristics and its deep-rooted presence within its native ecosystem. Often found in specific tropical regions, the tree serves as an important component of local biodiversity. Understanding its identity through this traditional nomenclature helps researchers and enthusiasts alike connect with its cultural significance. Consequently, the Guaçatunga-vermelha remains a celebrated subject in both scientific study and regional folklore.
Sources: Catalogue of Life (COL)
Synonyms
Casearia obliqua is a botanical species that has been identified through various taxonomic classifications over time. Due to historical shifts in botanical nomenclature, this plant is associated with several recognized synonyms. Specifically, it is known in scientific literature as Bigelovia brasiliensis and Casearia inaequilatera. Researchers also frequently refer to the species under the names Casearia montana and Samyda selloi. Understanding these overlapping designations is essential for accurate plant identification and study.
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Taxonomy
Casearia obliqua is a distinct member of the kingdom Plantae that showcases the diverse beauty of the natural world. Within this vast kingdom, the species belongs to the class Equisetopsida and is categorized under the order Malpighiales. It is further classified into the specific genus Casearia, which helps botanists identify its unique characteristics. This plant also holds a place within the family Salicaceae, linking it to a wider group of related vegetation. Through these biological relationships, the plant's evolutionary position is clearly defined within the complex tree of life.
| Rank | Classification |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Streptophyta |
| Class | Equisetopsida |
| Subclass | Magnoliidae |
| Order | Malpighiales |
| Family | Salicaceae |
| Genus | Casearia |
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Distribution
Geographic Regions
Casearia obliqua is a resilient species with a broad geographical footprint across South America. Within Brazil, its presence is widespread, spanning from the northern regions down through the northeast, southeast, and south. This extensive distribution ensures that the plant thrives in diverse ecological zones throughout the Brazilian territory. Beyond Brazil, its range extends into the southern reaches of the continent, specifically reaching into northeastern Argentina. Such a vast area of coverage highlights the adaptability of this plant within its native South American habitats.
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Identification
Morphology
Casearia obliqua is a self-supporting tree that can reach a maximum height of 30 meters. This robust growth form allows it to establish a commanding presence within its natural habitat. As a sturdy woody species, it provides significant structural complexity to the forest canopy.
Sources: Global Inventory of Floras and Traits (GIFT)
Biological Activities
Casearia obliqua has been identified as a source of bioactive compounds with notable cytotoxic potential. Research into the plant's twigs revealed the presence of two new clerodane diterpenes known as caseobliquins A and B. Furthermore, bioactivity-directed fractionation of the leaves led to the isolation of several other significant clerodane diterpenes. These specific chemical structures were meticulously established using 1D and 2D NMR spectroscopic data. Ultimately, the effectiveness of these isolated compounds was validated through cytotoxicity evaluations against various human tumor cell lines.
Compounds
Conditions
Preparations
Casearia obliqua serves as the source for various chemical preparations used in pharmacological research. Specifically, the leaves of the plant are prepared as a bioactive hexane extract to facilitate the isolation of clerodane diterpenes. Furthermore, the twigs of the species are processed to produce a crude bioactive EtOH extract. These distinct extraction methods allow for the identification of different compounds, such as caseobliquins A and B. Through these specific preparations, researchers are able to study the cytotoxic properties of the plant's secondary metabolites.
Parts used
Casearia obliqua serves as a significant subject of botanical study, particularly regarding the chemical composition of its various components. Research involving neutron activation analysis has specifically utilized the leaves of this species to characterize diverse trace element concentrations. These elemental profiles include significant levels of calcium and potassium, alongside various micro-elements like iron and manganese. Beyond mineral content, the leaves have also proven to be a rich source of bioactive compounds, including clerodane diterpenes. Through bioactivity-directed fractionation, these leaf extracts have yielded substances that demonstrate notable cytotoxicity against human tumor cell lines.