Datura ferox
Datura ferox · Accepted scientific name
Scientific literature: Very Sparse (0 studies) · ★☆☆☆☆
Datura ferox is a potent botanical species known for containing high concentrations of tropane alkaloids, specifically hyoscyamine and scopolamine. The plant's most significant properties are concentrated within its seeds, which serve as the primary source for various applications. To utilize these components, researchers often focus on the seeds themselves or prepare aqueous extracts from them. Successful cultivation of the species depends heavily on providing the specific environmental conditions necessary for seed germination. Understanding these chemical and biological characteristics is essential for studying this complex plant.
- Synonyms
- Not available
- Common names
- Not available
- Family
- Solanaceae
- Distribution
- Europe
- Plant Parts
- Seed
Classification
Common Names
Datura ferox is a striking plant known by several distinct names across different languages and cultures. In English-speaking regions, it is most frequently referred to by the common names Angel's-Trumpets or Angels'-trumpets. Its identity shifts in Spanish-speaking areas, where it is widely recognized as Chamico. When translated into German, the plant carries a more ominous tone through names like Furchtbarer Stechapfel. Finally, it is also commonly identified in German as Gefährlicher Stechapfel, highlighting its potent nature.
Sources: Catalogue of Life (COL)
Synonyms
Datura ferox is a distinctive plant species that is frequently recognized by botanical experts under various classifications. In many scientific records, this plant is identified by its synonym, Datura laevis. Understanding these overlapping names is essential for researchers attempting to track the plant's distribution and properties accurately. While the two names refer to the same organism, the use of synonyms can sometimes cause confusion in taxonomic literature. Therefore, acknowledging the relationship between Datura ferox and Datura laevis ensures clarity in botanical studies.
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Taxonomy
Datura ferox is a notable member of the kingdom Plantae, representing the diverse life found within the plant world. This species is classified under the class Equisetopsida and belongs to the specific order Solanales. Within this taxonomic hierarchy, it is categorized under the genus Datura. Furthermore, it is a prominent representative of the Solanaceae family. Understanding these biological relationships helps scientists better identify and study the unique characteristics of this plant.
| Rank | Classification |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Streptophyta |
| Class | Equisetopsida |
| Subclass | Magnoliidae |
| Order | Solanales |
| Family | Solanaceae |
| Genus | Datura |
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Distribution
Geographic Regions
Datura ferox exhibits a broad and diverse geographic range spanning across several key regions. The plant is widely distributed throughout Africa, including the islands of Macaronesia and Cape Verde. Within the northern part of the continent, it can be found thriving in Algeria, Morocco, and Tunisia. Its presence also extends into South Tropical Africa, specifically within the borders of Zimbabwe. This widespread distribution highlights the plant's ability to adapt to various African environments.
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Identification
Morphology
Datura ferox is a self-supporting herb characterized by its distinctive growth form. This plant typically reaches a maximum height of 1.5 meters as it matures. However, smaller specimens may only stand at a minimum height of 0.2 meters. These varying dimensions reflect the flexible physical presence of this botanical species.
Sources: Global Inventory of Floras and Traits (GIFT)
Biological Activities
Compounds
Datura ferox is a weed whose seeds frequently contaminate raw materials used in animal feed. These seeds are significant because they contain the primary alkaloids scopolamine and hyoscyamine. Research indicates that these specific chemical compounds can influence the physiological health of poultry, such as egg-laying hens and broilers. Studies have shown that high concentrations of these alkaloids may impact egg production or body weight gain in certain avian species. Consequently, understanding the presence of these substances is vital for establishing safety regulations regarding contaminated feed.
Conditions
Datura ferox influences various physiological processes, including the regulation of beta-mannanase and beta-mannosidase activities within its seeds. Light exposure plays a critical role in managing these enzymatic activities alongside the plant's germination processes. Furthermore, the plant affects embryo growth potential by responding to specific light pulses that stimulate development. In livestock settings, the alkaloids found in Datura ferox can impact egg production in hens when consumed in high doses. Consequently, the plant exerts diverse effects ranging from internal seed development to the reproductive output of animals.
Preparations
Datura ferox is utilized in various forms, specifically as seeds and as aqueous extracts derived from those seeds. Research indicates that aqueous extracts from the seeds of this plant demonstrate high activity in binding to the serotonin reuptake transport protein. Furthermore, the seeds themselves are frequently identified as contaminants in raw materials intended for animal feed. These seeds are noted for containing significant amounts of the alkaloids scopolamine and hyoscyamine. Consequently, the specific preparation of Datura ferox as seeds or aqueous extracts is central to both its pharmacological potential and its toxicological impact.
Parts used
Datura ferox is an indigenous plant species that possesses significant pharmacological and toxicological properties centered primarily in its seeds. Research indicates that aqueous extracts derived specifically from these seeds demonstrate a high affinity for the serotonin reuptake transport protein. However, the presence of these seeds in animal feed can pose risks due to high concentrations of alkaloids like scopolamine and hyoscyamine. In broiler studies, consuming these seed-derived alkaloids was linked to transient reductions in body weight gain. Consequently, understanding the chemical profile of the Datura ferox seed is essential for developing safety regulations regarding contaminated livestock feed.