Lantana camara subsp. aculeata

Lantana camara subsp. aculeata · Accepted scientific name

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Lantana camara subsp. aculeata is a distinct subspecies recognized for its complex chemical profile and biological impact. The plant's leaves are known to contain potent triterpenoid glycosides, specifically Lantadene A, Lantadene B, Lantadene C, and Lantadene D. These chemical compounds are significant due to their role in inducing teratology, or developmental abnormalities, in various organisms. Research indicates that the presence of these substances can lead to severe physiological conditions linked to fertility issues. Understanding the toxicological properties of this subspecies is essential for managing its environmental and biological effects.

Quick facts
Synonyms
Camara Aculeata · Camara Aculeata F. Varia · 11 more
Common names
Not available
Family
Verbenaceae
Distribution
Not available
Plant Parts
Leaf

Classification

Synonyms

Lantana camara subsp. aculeata is a botanical subject known by several different scientific names within the taxonomic record. This specific subspecies is frequently referred to by the synonym Lantana aculeata or simply Camara aculeata. Further classification reveals specialized forms, including Camara aculeata f. sanguinea and Camara aculeata f. varia. Additionally, the name Lantana aculeata f. varia is often used to describe these distinct variations. Understanding these overlapping synonyms is essential for accurate identification and study within the genus.

Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)

Taxonomy

Lantana camara subsp. aculeata is a distinct botanical entity belonging to the kingdom Plantae. Within this vast kingdom, it is classified under the class Equisetopsida. Its systematic lineage continues through the order Lamiales, which provides its fundamental biological framework. Further specialization places the plant within the specific genus Lantana. Ultimately, this complex hierarchy concludes with its placement in the Verbenaceae family.

Rank Classification
Kingdom Plantae
Phylum Streptophyta
Class Equisetopsida
Subclass Magnoliidae
Order Lamiales
Family Verbenaceae
Genus Lantana

Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)

Distribution

Geographic Regions

Lantana camara subsp. aculeata exhibits a widespread distribution that spans across several diverse geographical regions. In Africa, this subspecies can be found throughout East Tropical Africa, specifically in Kenya, as well as within the West-Central Tropical regions of the DR Congo. Its reach extends into the Asia-Temperate zone, where it is established in the Nansei-shoto and Ogasawara-shoto islands of Eastern Asia. Furthermore, the plant thrives within the Asia-Tropical climate of the Indian Subcontinent, particularly in the Assam region. This broad ecological range highlights the adaptability of the subspecies across varying continental landscapes.

Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)

Identification

Biological Activities

Compounds

Lantana camara subsp. aculeata is characterized by a complex profile of bioactive pentacyclic triterpenoids. Specifically, this plant contains several key compounds, including lantadene A, lantadene B, and lantadene C. In addition to these primary triterpenes, the subspecies also contains lantadene D. Research further identifies the presence of reduced lantadene B within its chemical makeup. Together, these diverse lantadenes define the biochemical composition of the plant's leaves.

Conditions

Lantana camara subsp. aculeata has been studied for its significant impact on fertility, general reproductive performance, and teratology in rat models. Research indicates that hydroalcoholic extracts from the leaves of this plant can interfere with fertility and alter general reproductive outcomes. Specifically, the extract is linked to teratology by increasing the frequency of fetal skeletal anomalies in treated dams. Furthermore, the plant induces embryotoxicity, as evidenced by post-implantation loss during the reproductive process. While these developmental and reproductive issues are present, the studies noted an absence of general maternal toxicity.

Preparations

Parts used

Lantana camara subsp. aculeata contains specific leaf components that play a significant role in its chemical profile. Research indicates that the leaves of this variety are rich in bioactive pentacyclic triterpenoids known as lantadenes. Quantitative analysis reveals that the concentration of these substances varies significantly between young and mature leaf samples. Beyond their chemical composition, hydroalcoholic extracts derived from these leaves have been studied for their physiological impacts. Specifically, these leaf extracts have been shown to interfere with fetal development and induce embryotoxicity in animal models.