Enhalus acoroides
Enhalus acoroides · Accepted scientific name
Scientific literature: Very Sparse (0 studies) · ★☆☆☆☆
Enhalus acoroides is a significant species of seagrass known for its vital role in marine ecosystems. This aquatic plant features long, strap-like leaves that are designed to thrive in shallow coastal waters. Its structure is supported by a sturdy stem that helps anchor the plant within the seabed. By stabilizing the sediment, it provides an essential habitat for various marine organisms. Understanding its morphology is key to studying its contribution to coastal biodiversity.
- Synonyms
- Stratiotes Acoroides · Enhalus Marinus · 2 more
- Common names
- Not available
- Family
- Hydrocharitaceae
- Distribution
- Not available
- Plant Parts
- Leaf · Stem
Classification
Common Names
Enhalus acoroides, commonly known by its species code Ea, represents a vital component of marine seagrass ecosystems. This specific species plays a crucial role in stabilizing seabed sediments and providing essential habitats for diverse aquatic life. By forming dense underwater meadows, it fosters complex biological relationships that support various fish and invertebrate populations. Understanding the ecological niche of this plant is fundamental to preserving the health of coastal environments. Consequently, protecting Enhalus acoroides is a key priority for marine conservation efforts worldwide.
Sources: Catalogue of Life (COL)
Synonyms
Enhalus acoroides is a significant seagrass species that has been documented under several different scientific names throughout history. Botanical records indicate that this plant is frequently associated with the synonyms Enhalus koenigii and Enhalus marinus. Furthermore, taxonomic studies have previously linked it to the name Stratiotes acoroides. It has also been identified in various literature as Vallisneria sphaerocarpa. Understanding these diverse naming conventions is essential for accurate identification and research within marine ecosystems.
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Taxonomy
Enhalus acoroides is a fascinating marine plant that belongs to the kingdom Plantae. Within this vast biological realm, it is specifically classified under the class Equisetopsida. The species is further organized into the order Alismatales, showcasing its unique evolutionary path. It falls under the genus Enhalus, a group defined by its specialized aquatic adaptations. Finally, this seagrass is a distinguished member of the family Hydrocharitaceae, completing its detailed taxonomic profile.
| Rank | Classification |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Streptophyta |
| Class | Equisetopsida |
| Subclass | Magnoliidae |
| Order | Alismatales |
| Family | Hydrocharitaceae |
| Genus | Enhalus |
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Distribution
Geographic Regions
Enhalus acoroides is a significant marine plant species with an extensive distribution throughout the African coastline. Its presence is notably documented across East Tropical Africa, spanning from the waters of Kenya to the shores of Tanzania. The species also extends its reach into Northeast Tropical Africa, specifically inhabiting the coastal regions of Somalia. Furthermore, it can be found along the South Tropical Africa coast in Mozambique, demonstrating a broad ecological range. Finally, its habitat reaches across the Western Indian Ocean to include the diverse marine environments of Madagascar.
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Identification
Morphology
Enhalus acoroides is a robust herb characterized by its self-supporting growth form. This marine plant exhibits significant structural versatility depending on its environment. While some specimens reach a modest height of 1 m, others can grow much larger. Ultimately, the species can achieve a maximum height of up to 4 m.
Sources: Global Inventory of Floras and Traits (GIFT)
Biological Activities
Compounds
Conditions
Preparations
Parts used
Enhalus acoroides is a species of tropical seagrass found within the South China Sea that possesses several distinct anatomical components. Scientific research has specifically focused on the plant's leaves and stems to identify unique chemical compounds. Through detailed spectroscopic analysis, researchers successfully isolated two novel diterpenes known as Enhoidin A and Enhoidin B from these specific parts. These compounds feature an unusual gibberellane skeleton and a unique lactone ring structure never before seen in such seagrasses. Furthermore, testing revealed that these extracts from the stems and leaves exhibit moderate cytotoxic activities against various human cancer cell lines.