Castanopsis acuminatissima
Castanopsis acuminatissima · Accepted scientific name
Scientific literature: Very Sparse (0 studies) · ★☆☆☆☆
Castanopsis acuminatissima is a distinguished evergreen species belonging to the Fagaceae family. This plant features robust stems that provide essential structural support for its growing canopy. Its lush green leaves are finely textured and play a vital role in the tree's photosynthetic processes. Beneath the surface, a complex root system anchors the plant firmly into the forest soil. Together, these specialized parts allow the species to thrive within its natural woodland habitat.
- Synonyms
- Quercus Varingiifolia · Pasania Acuminatissima · 13 more
- Common names
- Not available
- Family
- Fagaceae
- Distribution
- Southern America
- Plant Parts
- Leaf · Root
Classification
Common Names
Castanopsis acuminatissima is a versatile species known by a diverse array of regional and descriptive names. In many areas, it is simply referred to as Berangan or Berangan Pagar Anak. Local communities may also call the plant Kawang or Ki Riung Anak depending on their specific dialect. Furthermore, it is recognized internationally as the Papua New Guinea Chinquapin. This variety of nomenclature highlights the plant's widespread presence and cultural significance across different landscapes.
Sources: Catalogue of Life (COL)
Synonyms
Castanopsis acuminatissima is a botanical species characterized by a complex history of taxonomic classifications. Throughout various scientific studies, it has been identified by several different names, including the synonym Castanea acuminatissima. Its botanical lineage is further complicated by its association with Castanea sessilifolia and Castanopsis bejaudii. Researchers have also documented its relationship to Castanopsis junghuhnii in diverse ecological contexts. Finally, the name Castanopsis nebularum serves as another recognized synonym within its extensive taxonomic profile.
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Taxonomy
Castanopsis acuminatissima belongs to the diverse kingdom Plantae. Within this vast biological group, it is classified under the class Equisetopsida. The species further falls into the order Fagales, which connects it to many other woody plants. It is a member of the family Fagaceae, a group known for its significant ecological roles. Finally, this specific plant is identified by its taxonomic placement within the genus Castanopsis.
| Rank | Classification |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Streptophyta |
| Class | Equisetopsida |
| Subclass | Magnoliidae |
| Order | Fagales |
| Family | Fagaceae |
| Genus | Castanopsis |
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Distribution
Geographic Regions
Castanopsis acuminatissima exhibits a diverse geographical range that spans across several key regions of Asia. In temperate zones, the species is notably found within China, particularly throughout the South-Central provinces. Its presence extends significantly into tropical landscapes, covering much of the Indian Subcontinent including Bangladesh. Furthermore, the plant is well-established throughout the Indo-China region, specifically within the borders of Cambodia, Laos, and Myanmar. This wide distribution highlights the species' ability to thrive in both temperate and tropical ecosystems.
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Identification
Morphology
Castanopsis acuminatissima is a self-supporting tree that serves as a robust component of its natural ecosystem. This species typically exhibits a sturdy growth form that allows it to thrive in competitive forest environments. Depending on its specific habitat and conditions, the plant can reach a height of 25 meters. In optimal circumstances, however, it has the potential to grow even taller, reaching a maximum height of 36 meters.
Sources: Global Inventory of Floras and Traits (GIFT)
Biological Activities
Compounds
Conditions
Castanopsis acuminatissima exhibits a broad spectrum of antibacterial activity through its methanol extracts. These antimicrobial properties are present in the plant's leaves, stem, and root barks. Various fractions were obtained from the crude methanolic extracts using solvents like petrol, dichloromethane, and ethyl acetate. While the extracts demonstrate significant effectiveness against bacteria, the antibacterial potency generally decreased during the fractionation process. Despite this antibacterial strength, the plant showed no active impact against the tested moulds.
Preparations
Parts used
Castanopsis acuminatissima possesses several key anatomical components, including the leaf, stem, and root. Research into the plant's medicinal properties has utilized methanol extracts derived from these specific parts. Studies show that the leaves, stem, and root barks all contribute to the species' biological profile. While these extracts demonstrate a broad spectrum of antibacterial activity, their effectiveness often decreases during the fractionation process. Notably, despite their potency against bacteria, none of these plant parts showed activity against tested moulds.