Eschweilera coriacea
Eschweilera coriacea · Accepted scientific name
Scientific literature: Very Sparse (0 studies) · ★☆☆☆☆
Eschweilera coriacea is a notable botanical species recognized for its significant chemical profile. Researchers have identified key bioactive compounds within the plant, including 3-O-Galloylepigallocatechin, Eschweilenol A, Eschweilenol C, and Epigallocatechin. These specialized metabolites are primarily concentrated within the plant's bark, which serves as a crucial source for various preparations. Studying these chemical constituents provides valuable insights into the plant's potential pharmacological properties. Consequently, this species remains a subject of interest for those exploring natural chemical resources.
- Synonyms
- Neohuberia Matamata · Eschweilera Eymaana · 16 more
- Common names
- Not available
- Family
- Lecythidaceae
- Distribution
- Asia-Tropical
- Plant Parts
- Not available
Classification
Synonyms
Eschweilera coriacea is a botanical species that has been identified by several different scientific names throughout history. Within taxonomic records, it is recognized by its synonym Chytroma cincturata as well as Chytroma grandifolia. The plant's complex classification also includes the names Eschweilera acuminatissima and Eschweilera eymaana. Furthermore, researchers have documented Eschweilera fractiflexa as another synonymous designation for this specific species. Understanding these varying names is essential for accurately tracking the plant's diverse botanical identity.
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Taxonomy
Eschweilera coriacea is a fascinating biological specimen belonging to the kingdom Plantae. Within this vast kingdom, it is classified under the class Equisetopsida. Its specific evolutionary lineage places it in the order Ericales. Furthermore, this plant is a distinguished member of the family Lecythidaceae. Finally, it is identified by its unique taxonomic placement within the genus Eschweilera.
| Rank | Classification |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Streptophyta |
| Class | Equisetopsida |
| Subclass | Magnoliidae |
| Order | Ericales |
| Family | Lecythidaceae |
| Genus | Eschweilera |
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Distribution
Geographic Regions
Eschweilera coriacea maintains an expansive geographic range that spans across several key regions of the Americas. In South America, the species is widely distributed throughout various parts of Brazil, including the North, Northeast, and West-Central territories. Its presence also extends into Central America, where it can be found in the diverse landscapes of Honduras. Furthermore, the plant is well-established within the tropical environments of Panamá. This widespread distribution highlights the adaptability of the species across multiple diverse ecosystems.
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Identification
Morphology
Eschweilera coriacea is a robust tree characterized by its impressive and self-supporting growth form. This species can reach significant heights in the forest canopy, typically peaking at around 25 meters. However, under ideal conditions, it is capable of growing even larger, reaching a maximum height of 37 meters. Such stature allows it to establish a commanding presence within its natural ecosystem.
Sources: Global Inventory of Floras and Traits (GIFT)
Biological Activities
Compounds
Eschweilera coriacea, a plant sourced from the lowland wet forests of Suriname, has been identified as a rich source of various chemical compounds. Through bioassay-guided fractionation of its bark, researchers discovered three specific ellagic acid derivatives known as eschweilenol A, eschweilenol B, and eschweilenol C. In addition to these newly identified substances, the plant also contains the known compounds 3-O-galloylepigallocatechin and epigallocatechin. The study utilized advanced spectrometric methods, such as NMR techniques, to determine the complex structures of these constituents. These findings highlight the diverse chemical profile inherent in the bark of this rainforest species.
Conditions
Preparations
Eschweilera coriacea is prepared as bark to facilitate the extraction of specific chemical compounds. Researchers collected this botanical material from the lowland wet forest of Suriname for intensive study. Through bioassay-guided fractionation of the bark, scientists successfully identified three new ellagic acid derivatives. These derivatives, known as eschweilenol A, B, and C, were isolated alongside several other known compounds. Detailed spectrometric and chemical methods were ultimately employed to determine the exact molecular structures of these bark-derived substances.