Dipteryx alata
Dipteryx alata · Accepted scientific name
Scientific literature: Very Sparse (0 studies) · ★☆☆☆☆
Dipteryx alata is a remarkable plant species that has drawn scientific interest due to its physiological responses to environmental stressors. Research indicates that this species can interact with various heavy metals, specifically aluminum, arsenic, cadmium, and chromium. Investigations often focus on the leaves and the trunk xylem sap to understand how these elements are transported and processed within the plant. Studies utilizing hexanic extracts from the leaves provide deeper insights into the chemical properties and potential sequestration mechanisms of the species. Understanding these interactions is crucial for assessing how Dipteryx alata manages toxicity under heavy metal conditions.
- Synonyms
- Dipteryx Pterota · Coumarouna Alata
- Common names
- Not available
- Family
- Fabaceae
- Distribution
- Not available
- Plant Parts
- Leaf
Classification
Common Names
Dipteryx alata is a versatile botanical species known by a wide array of regional names. Most frequently, it is referred to as the Almendro or simply the Baru tree. In certain areas, locals may call it Baru or use the variation Barujo to identify it. It is also recognized by the descriptive name Coco-feijão in specific cultural contexts. These diverse common names highlight the plant's widespread significance across different landscapes.
Sources: Catalogue of Life (COL)
Synonyms
Dipteryx alata is a botanical subject frequently encountered under different taxonomic names in various scientific literatures. This species is recognized by the synonym Coumarouna alata, which can sometimes cause confusion for researchers tracking its classification. Additionally, the plant is also associated with the synonym Dipteryx pterota in certain botanical records. Understanding these overlapping designations is essential for maintaining accuracy in ecological studies and plant identification. Navigating these synonymous relationships ensures that the biological data for this species remains consistent and reliable.
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Taxonomy
Dipteryx alata is a fascinating specimen that belongs to the expansive kingdom Plantae. Within this biological realm, the plant is classified under the class Equisetopsida. It further resides in the order Fabales, showcasing its specific evolutionary lineage. As a member of the Fabaceae family, it shares structural characteristics with many other notable legumes. Ultimately, this species is defined by its unique placement within the genus Dipteryx.
| Rank | Classification |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Streptophyta |
| Class | Equisetopsida |
| Subclass | Magnoliidae |
| Order | Fabales |
| Family | Fabaceae |
| Genus | Dipteryx |
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Distribution
Geographic Regions
Dipteryx alata is widely distributed across various regions of South America, showing a particularly strong presence throughout Brazil. Its range extends deeply into the Brazilian landscape, encompassing the Northeast, Southeast, and West-Central territories. This species also flourishes in the northern reaches of Brazil, demonstrating significant adaptability to different local climates. Moving further south, the plant's habitat expands into Southern South America, where it is commonly found in Paraguay. Together, these geographical connections highlight the expansive and diverse natural footprint of this remarkable plant.
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Identification
Morphology
Dipteryx alata is a self-supporting tree that serves as a significant feature in its natural habitat. This robust species typically reaches a maximum height of 18 meters, though it can grow slightly taller under ideal conditions. In some instances, the plant may attain a peak height of up to 20 meters. Its distinct growth form allows it to stand firmly as a dominant presence in the forest canopy.
Sources: Global Inventory of Floras and Traits (GIFT)
Biological Activities
Compounds
Dipteryx alata possesses a complex phytochemical profile that plays a significant role in its biological activities. Research indicates that the bark of this plant contains essential compounds such as flavonoids and tannins. Specifically, these components found within methanolic extracts appear to contribute to the neutralization of certain snake venom effects. Additionally, the presence of terpenoids in dichloromethane extracts may further participate in mediating anti-venom actions. Understanding these specific chemical relationships is crucial for characterizing the therapeutic potential of the plant's medicinal compounds.
Conditions
Dipteryx alata demonstrates significant medicinal potential through its ability to treat various biological challenges. The plant's methanolic extract successfully treats the neurotoxic and myotoxic actions of Bjssu venom, while dichloromethane extracts also help mitigate these venom effects. Furthermore, the species shows anti-Cdt venom effects by delaying the blockade induced by the toxin. In terms of infectious diseases, Dipteryx alata effectively treats Leishmania amazonensis, showing high leishmanicidal activity with low cytotoxicity. Finally, safety evaluations confirm that the bark extract treats Salmonella (Ames) mutagenicity by showing no mutagenic potential in tested strains.
Preparations
Dipteryx alata is utilized in various scientific studies through several different preparations. It is prepared as a hexanic extract to evaluate its potent antileishmanial activity against Leishmania amazonensis. Additionally, the plant is prepared as leaves to investigate the accumulation of heavy metals like arsenic, cadmium, and chromium. The species is also prepared as trunk xylem sap for the analysis of trace element concentrations and metal transfer from the soil. Together, these different forms of Dipteryx alata allow researchers to assess both its therapeutic potential and its environmental toxicity risks.
Parts used
Dipteryx alata serves as a critical subject in studies examining the transfer of metal(loid)s from the soil to its various biological structures. Researchers have specifically analyzed the relationship between the soil and the plant's leaf tissues to determine how heavy metals are absorbed. The study revealed that this species possesses a significant potential for phytoextraction, particularly regarding elements like phosphorus. Furthermore, the plant exhibits a notable tendency to accumulate toxic substances such as arsenic, cadmium, and chromium within its leaves. Consequently, understanding the composition of these leaf tissues is essential for assessing the overall environmental contamination and potential health risks.