Lumnitzera littorea
Lumnitzera littorea · Accepted scientific name
Scientific literature: Very Sparse (0 studies) · ★☆☆☆☆
Lumnitzera littorea is a unique mangrove species known for its resilience in harsh coastal environments. Recent scientific investigations have turned toward this plant to explore its potential therapeutic properties. Specifically, researchers are examining the antioxidant activity present within its biological compounds. By utilizing the fermentation broth as a specialized preparation, new bioactive constituents can be effectively extracted. This study aims to highlight how such processed extracts might contribute to advanced nutritional or medicinal applications.
- Synonyms
- Bruguiera Littorea · Pyrrhanthus Littoreus · 7 more
- Common names
- Not available
- Family
- Combretaceae
- Distribution
- Not available
- Plant Parts
- Not available
Classification
Common Names
Lumnitzera littorea is a unique mangrove species that is known by several different names across various regions. It is most commonly referred to in English as the Red-Flowered Black Mangrove or simply the black mangrove. In certain local contexts, the plant is identified by the name Mekekad. The species also carries the designation of punalastamangrove in specific botanical discussions. Furthermore, it is recognized by its Thai name, ฝาดดอกแดง, reflecting its cultural and regional importance.
Sources: Catalogue of Life (COL)
Synonyms
Lumnitzera littorea is a plant species that is associated with a complex web of botanical synonyms. Scientific literature identifies this taxon through various alternative names, including Bruguiera littorea. It has also been historically linked to several variations within the Laguncularia genus, such as Laguncularia coccinea, Laguncularia pedicellata, and Laguncularia purpurea. Furthermore, the name Lumnitzera pedicellata is recognized as a synonym within this taxonomic grouping. Navigating these overlapping classifications is essential for accurate identification in coastal ecology studies.
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Taxonomy
Lumnitzera littorea is a distinctive species that belongs to the kingdom Plantae. Within this vast biological kingdom, it is classified under the class Equisetopsida. It further belongs to the order Myrtales, showcasing its specific evolutionary lineage. The plant is a member of the Combretaceae family, a group known for its diverse botanical characteristics. Finally, it is defined by its placement within the genus Lumnitzera.
| Rank | Classification |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Streptophyta |
| Class | Equisetopsida |
| Subclass | Magnoliidae |
| Order | Myrtales |
| Family | Combretaceae |
| Genus | Lumnitzera |
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Distribution
Geographic Regions
Lumnitzera littorea exhibits a broad and diverse geographical range that spans across several key regions of Asia. Within the temperate zones, the species is notably distributed throughout China and Hainan. Its tropical presence is equally significant, stretching across the Indian Subcontinent and the island of Sri Lanka. The plant also thrives within the Indo-China region, establishing itself in locations such as the Andaman Islands, Cambodia, and Myanmar. This extensive distribution highlights the remarkable adaptability of the species to varying Asian climates.
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Identification
Morphology
Lumnitzera littorea is a self-supporting plant that primarily takes the form of a tree. Depending on its environmental conditions, this species can reach a height of 10 meters. In more optimal settings, the growth can extend significantly further to a maximum of 30 meters. This structural versatility allows the plant to establish a sturdy presence within its coastal habitat.
Sources: Global Inventory of Floras and Traits (GIFT)
Biological Activities
Compounds
Conditions
Lumnitzera littorea was identified as one of the six plant species from the study that demonstrated promising antioxidant potential. This specific biological activity was assessed through the measurement of DPPH radical scavenging activity in the various extracts. The research involved testing 52 traditionally used Thai medicinal plant species to evaluate several different pharmacological properties. Among these evaluations, the antioxidant capacity of Lumnitzera littorea stood out as a significant finding. These results contribute to the broader understanding of the medicinal value found within indigenous Thai plant species.
Preparations
Lumnitzera littorea serves as the source material used to derive the fungus Penicillium oxalicum HLLG-13. This specific fungus is then utilized to create a fermentation broth for the purpose of isolating various biological secondary metabolites. Within this process, the fermentation broth of the Lumnitzera littorea-derived fungus is analyzed to yield several new and known compounds. These isolated substances, such as cyclopiane diterpenes and steroids, are extracted directly from the prepared medium. Consequently, the plant plays a foundational role in the creation of the fermentation broth used in this chemical study.