Enterolobium contortisiliquum
Enterolobium contortisiliquum · Accepted scientific name
Scientific literature: Very Sparse (0 studies) · ★☆☆☆☆
Enterolobium contortisiliquum, commonly known as the twist-pod mimosa, is a distinctive legume species recognized by its unique, spiraling seed pods. Scientific investigations into its biological properties have specifically focused on the chemical constituents found within its seed. Recent studies have explored how extracts from these seeds interact with various biochemical pathways, including those involving Factor XIIa. Understanding these interactions is crucial for identifying potential medicinal or anticoagulant applications of the plant. Consequently, the seed of Enterolobium contortisiliquum remains a subject of significant pharmacological interest.
- Synonyms
- Mimosa Contortisiliqua · Pithecellobium Malacotrichum · 5 more
- Common names
- Not available
- Family
- Fabaceae
- Distribution
- Not available
- Plant Parts
- Seed
Classification
Common Names
Enterolobium contortisiliquum is a remarkable species known by a diverse array of regional names. In many areas, it is affectionately called the Guanacaste or the Pacara Earpod Tree. Its distinctive seed pods have also earned it the descriptive common names Oreja de mono and Oreja de negro. In different cultural contexts, the tree is frequently referred to as the Tambaré. This variety of nomenclature highlights the plant's widespread presence and importance across various landscapes.
Sources: Catalogue of Life (COL)
Synonyms
Enterolobium contortisiliquum is a complex botanical subject that is recognized by several different scientific names. Within taxonomic literature, this species is frequently identified by the synonym Acacia melalobiata. It is also closely associated with the names Calliandra pacara and Enterolobium glaucescens. Furthermore, the plant is documented under various classifications including Feuilleea contortisiliqua. These diverse synonyms, such as Feuilleea pacara, highlight the intricate history of its botanical classification.
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Taxonomy
Enterolobium contortisiliquum belongs to the expansive kingdom Plantae, representing a vital part of the Earth's botanical diversity. Within this vast kingdom, the species is classified under the class Equisetopsida. It further finds its place within the order Fabales, a group known for distinct structural characteristics. This plant is a member of the prominent family Fabaceae, which is widely recognized for its nitrogen-fixing capabilities. Ultimately, its specific identity is defined by its classification within the genus Enterolobium.
| Rank | Classification |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Streptophyta |
| Class | Equisetopsida |
| Subclass | Magnoliidae |
| Order | Fabales |
| Family | Fabaceae |
| Genus | Enterolobium |
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Distribution
Geographic Regions
Enterolobium contortisiliquum exhibits a remarkably broad geographical range that spans several continents. In Africa, the species can be found across the landscapes of both East Tropical Africa, specifically Kenya, and South Tropical Africa within Zimbabwe. Its reach extends into Asia, where it is established throughout the Indo-China region of Myanmar. Moving across the Atlantic, the plant thrives in the Northeastern regions of Brazil in South America. Finally, its distribution continues into North America, where it is commonly located throughout Southeastern U.S.A., particularly in Florida.
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Identification
Morphology
Enterolobium contortisiliquum is a self-supporting plant that adopts the impressive growth form of a tree. This species can reach a significant stature in the wild, typically achieving a maximum height of up to 25 m. However, under certain conditions, it has been known to climb even higher, reaching a peak of 27 m. This robust development allows it to stand prominently within its natural ecosystem.
Sources: Global Inventory of Floras and Traits (GIFT)
Biological Activities
Compounds
Conditions
Enterolobium contortisiliquum contains a proteinase inhibitor that possesses the ability to inactivate multiple enzymes. Specifically, this inhibitor treats Factor XIIa, which is a blood clotting factor. Additionally, the plant's inhibitor treats bovine trypsin, a digestive enzyme. It also effectively treats human plasma kallikrein. These specific interactions demonstrate the broad enzymatic activity of the inhibitors isolated from E. contortisiliquum.
Preparations
Parts used
Enterolobium contortisiliquum contains highly specialized components within its seeds that play significant roles in enzymatic interactions. Researchers have successfully isolated serine proteinase inhibitors from these seeds, which demonstrate a unique ability to inactivate bovine trypsin, Factor XIIa, and human plasma kallikrein. These specific inhibitors appear to be of the Kunitz type and possess a molecular weight of approximately 23,000. Furthermore, the seeds harbor an endopeptidase with a molecular weight of 60,000 that shows a high specificity for basic amino acid residues. This endopeptidase is capable of cleaving seed proteins and converting Met-Lys-bradykinin into bradykinin, showcasing the complex biochemical profile of the plant.