Melanolepis multiglandulosa
Melanolepis multiglandulosa · Accepted scientific name
Scientific literature: Very Sparse (0 studies) · ★☆☆☆☆
Melanolepis multiglandulosa is a distinctive woody species known for its unique botanical characteristics. One of its most defining features is the structure of the stem, which supports the plant's complex growth habit. This stem serves as a vital conduit, transporting essential nutrients and water throughout the entire organism. By providing structural integrity, the stem allows the plant to reach toward light sources in its natural habitat. Understanding the anatomy of this specific part is crucial for studying the overall biology of the species.
- Synonyms
- Melanolepis Angulata · Melanolepis Multiglandulosa Var. Pendula · 14 more
- Common names
- Not available
- Family
- Euphorbiaceae
- Distribution
- Not available
- Plant Parts
- Stem
Classification
Common Names
Melanolepis multiglandulosa is a plant recognized by a variety of distinct regional and local names. In certain areas, it is widely known by the common names Alim or Alom. Its identity is also preserved in Japanese culture through the specific name ヤンバルアカメガシワ. Furthermore, the species is referred to as 蟲屎 in other traditional contexts. These diverse names highlight the plant's widespread cultural presence across different linguistic landscapes.
Sources: Catalogue of Life (COL)
Synonyms
Melanolepis multiglandulosa is a botanical species characterized by a complex history of taxonomic classifications. Throughout various scientific studies, this plant has been identified under several different names, including the synonym Adelia monoica. It is also closely linked to multiple variations within the Mallotus genus, such as Mallotus angulatus and Mallotus calcosus. Furthermore, researchers have historically cataloged it as Mallotus hellwigianus and Mallotus hollrungianus. Understanding these overlapping identities is essential for accurately tracking the plant's evolutionary lineage and botanical record.
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Taxonomy
Melanolepis multiglandulosa is a distinctive member of the kingdom Plantae. This botanical species belongs to the genus Melanolepis, which places it within a specific evolutionary lineage. It is further classified under the order Malpighiales, showcasing its complex biological connections. Within this order, the plant is a representative of the family Euphorbiaceae. Finally, its taxonomic identity is solidified by its membership in the class Equisetopsida.
| Rank | Classification |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Streptophyta |
| Class | Equisetopsida |
| Subclass | Magnoliidae |
| Order | Malpighiales |
| Family | Euphorbiaceae |
| Genus | Melanolepis |
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Distribution
Geographic Regions
Melanolepis multiglandulosa exhibits a diverse geographical range that spans across various climatic zones in Asia. In temperate regions, this species is notably distributed throughout Eastern Asia, specifically within the Nansei-shoto islands and Taiwan. Its presence extends into tropical environments as well, finding habitats throughout the Indo-China peninsula in countries like Cambodia and Thailand. Furthermore, the plant can be found in the Malesia region, with documented occurrences on the island of Borneo. This wide distribution highlights the adaptability of the species across both temperate and tropical landscapes.
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Identification
Morphology
Melanolepis multiglandulosa is a self-supporting tree characterized by its sturdy growth form. This species typically reaches a maximum height of 12 meters as it matures in its natural habitat. Its structural stability allows it to stand firmly as a prominent feature of the forest canopy.
Sources: Global Inventory of Floras and Traits (GIFT)
Biological Activities
Compounds
Conditions
Melanolepis multiglandulosa stem extracts demonstrate significant antiviral activity against specific hepatitis C virus strains. Specifically, the plant treats the HCV J6/JFH1-P47 strain with a 50% inhibitory concentration of 17.1 μg/ml. It also effectively treats the HCV J6/JFH1-P1 strain with a 50% inhibitory concentration of 6.2 μg/ml. These results indicate that the plant's components act principally at the viral entry step. Consequently, this species serves as a potential candidate for the development of new anti-HCV drugs.
Preparations
Parts used
Melanolepis multiglandulosa contains a stem that has demonstrated significant potential in the fight against the hepatitis C virus. In a recent study evaluating Indonesian medicinal plants, ethanol extracts derived from this specific plant part were tested for their antiviral properties. The research revealed that the stem extract possesses inhibitory activities against various HCV genotypes, particularly during the viral entry step. Although it showed some resistance in certain genotypes compared to other tested species, it remains a promising candidate for pharmaceutical study. Ultimately, these findings suggest that parts of Melanolepis multiglandulosa could play a crucial role in the development of new anti-HCV drugs.