Clusia paralicola
Clusia paralicola · Accepted scientific name
Scientific literature: Very Sparse (0 studies) · ★☆☆☆☆
Clusia paralicola is a resilient evergreen shrub widely recognized for its ability to thrive in challenging coastal environments. This species is particularly noted for its unique growth habits, often forming dense thickets in sandy soils. One of its most fascinating biological features is its specialized root system, which allows it to anchor firmly in unstable substrates. These roots play a crucial role in nutrient uptake and stability within its native tropical habitats. Understanding the anatomy of this plant provides valuable insight into how it survives in such high-stress ecosystems.
- Synonyms
- Not available
- Common names
- Not available
- Family
- Clusiaceae
- Distribution
- Southern America
- Plant Parts
- Root
Classification
Common Names
Clusia paralicola is a striking botanical species most commonly recognized by its local name, Pororoca. This resilient plant is often celebrated for its unique structural features and its ability to thrive in specific coastal environments. Understanding the connection between its scientific classification and its popular moniker helps enthusiasts identify it more easily in the wild. By learning the name Pororoca, gardeners and researchers can better navigate the diverse landscape of tropical flora. Ultimately, these linguistic relationships enrich our appreciation for the intricate world of plant life.
Sources: Catalogue of Life (COL)
Taxonomy
Clusia paralicola is a distinctive member of the kingdom Plantae that showcases the complex diversity of the natural world. This species is classified under the class Equisetopsida and belongs to the expansive order Malpighiales. Within this taxonomic hierarchy, it is nested specifically in the family Clusiaceae. It further finds its place within the well-known genus Clusia. Through these biological relationships, scientists can better understand the evolutionary lineage and botanical characteristics of this plant.
| Rank | Classification |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Streptophyta |
| Class | Equisetopsida |
| Subclass | Magnoliidae |
| Order | Malpighiales |
| Family | Clusiaceae |
| Genus | Clusia |
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Distribution
Geographic Regions
Clusia paralicola is a distinctive plant species primarily found throughout various regions of Southern America. Its natural distribution is most prominent across the diverse landscapes of Brazil, where it thrives in specific ecological niches. Within this territory, the plant is particularly well-represented in the Northeast region of the country. This geographical presence highlights its ability to adapt to the unique environmental conditions found in these tropical areas. Understanding its range is essential for studying the botanical diversity inherent to the Brazilian wilderness.
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Identification
Morphology
Clusia paralicola is a self-supporting plant that typically adopts a tree-like growth form. This species is characterized by its sturdy structure, which allows it to stand firmly on its own. In its natural habitat, it reaches a maximum height of approximately 7 meters.
Sources: Global Inventory of Floras and Traits (GIFT)
Biological Activities
Compounds
Conditions
Clusia paralicola produces unique biphenyl derivatives that demonstrate significant biological activities. Specifically, compounds isolated from its roots, known as clusiparalicolines A, B, and C, are effective in treating DNA strand-scission. Within these derivatives, compounds 1 and 2 were identified as particularly active in the DNA strand-scission assay. Furthermore, the plant's extracts show the ability to treat KB human cancer cell line cytotoxicity. All three identified compounds exhibit this modest cytotoxic effect against the KB cell line.
Preparations
Parts used
Clusia paralicola serves as a significant source of unique chemical compounds for pharmacological research. Recent studies have focused on the extraction of specific biphenyl derivatives from its root systems. Researchers successfully isolated three new compounds, known as clusiparalicolines A, B, and C, through bioassay-directed fractionation. These substances demonstrated notable DNA strand-scission activity and showed modest cytotoxicity against the KB human cancer cell line. Through advanced spectroscopic methods, the complex structures of these root-derived molecules have been fully elucidated.