Prismatomeris tetrandra

Names and Synonyms

Scientific Names

Accepted name

Synonyms

• Coffea tetrandra

Sources: Wikidata

Taxonomical Classification

This plant belongs to the kingdom Plantae and the phylum Streptophyta, falling under the class Equisetopsida and subclass Magnoliidae. Within the order Gentianaales, it is classified under the family Rubiaceae. Finally, it is identified by its specific genus, Prismatomeris, and species name, tetrandra.

Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)

Distribution

This plant exhibits a diverse geographical distribution spanning several regions across Asia. In China, it is found throughout the South-Central, Southeast, and Hainan provinces. Its range also extends into the Indian Subcontinent, specifically within the state of Assam. Additionally, the species is documented to grow within the borders of Bangladesh. Together, these locations highlight the plant's presence across both Chinese and South Asian territories.

Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)

Botanical Identification

Ecology

The ecology of Prismatomeris tetrandra is characterized by a highly specialized and narrow altitudinal niche. This species is strictly confined to a specific vertical zone within its habitat, occupying a precise elevation of 2540 m AMSL. Because the minimum and maximum bounds of its elevational range are identical at 2540 m AMSL, the plant demonstrates an extreme degree of stenotopic adaptation, suggesting it is restricted to a very particular microclimate or soil profile found only at this specific height. Such a precise distribution pattern implies that the species is highly sensitive to environmental variables like temperature, atmospheric pressure, and moisture levels, which fluctuate significantly with changes in altitude.

Elevational range max:

2540 m AMSL

Life history

The life history of Prismatomeris tetrandra is characterized by its distinct growth strategies, primarily functioning as a phanerophyte, which allows it to maintain its perennating buds well above the ground level. Within its ecological niche, it also exhibits characteristics of a nanophanerophyte, representing a specialized growth form where the plant remains relatively small yet continues to keep its buds above the soil surface. This combination of life forms dictates its ability to endure seasonal environmental shifts, utilizing its elevated bud structure to persist through varying climatic conditions and contribute to the long-term stability of its habitat.

Life form :

nanophanerophyte

Life form :

phanerophyte

Morphology

The morphology of Prismatomeris tetrandra is characterized by a woody growth habit that allows it to function as a self-supporting climber, manifesting as a liana or vine. While its structural complexity can present as a shrub or even a small tree, it maintains a terrestrial existence rather than acting as an epiphyte. As an independent organism, it does not exhibit parasitic behavior, relying on its own metabolic processes. The plant reaches a maximum height of approximately 5 meters, utilizing its woody stems to support its upward growth within its habitat.

Climber :

self-supporting

Epiphyte :

terrestrial

Growth form :

shrub

Growth form :

tree

Parasite :

independent

Plant height max:

5 m

Woodiness :

woody

Sources: Global Inventory of Floras and Traits (GIFT)

Plant Parts

Prismatomeris tetrandra has 1 reported plant parts identified across 2 scientific publications and several other databases that are studied for medicinal purposes. The most consistently reported plant part include root.

Root

1. Chemical & pharmaceutical bulletin
2. Zhongguo Zhong yao za zhi = Zhongguo zhongyao zazhi = China journal of Chinese materia medica

Chemicals

Prismatomeris tetrandra has 6 reported phytochemicals identified across 2 scientific publications and several other databases. The most consistently reported chemicals include 1-Hydroxy-2-methylanthraquinone, 1-hydroxy-2,3-dimethoxy-7-methyl-9,10-anthraquinone, 3-hydroxy-1,5,6-trimethoxy-2-methyl-9,10-anthraquinone, BETA-SITOSTEROL, Rubiadin.

1-Hydroxy-2-methylanthraquinone

1. Zhongguo Zhong yao za zhi = Zhongguo zhongyao zazhi = China journal of Chinese materia medica

1-hydroxy-2,3-dimethoxy-7-methyl-9,10-anthraquinone

1. Chemical & pharmaceutical bulletin

3-hydroxy-1,5,6-trimethoxy-2-methyl-9,10-anthraquinone

1. Chemical & pharmaceutical bulletin

BETA-SITOSTEROL

1. Zhongguo Zhong yao za zhi = Zhongguo zhongyao zazhi = China journal of Chinese materia medica

Rubiadin

1. Zhongguo Zhong yao za zhi = Zhongguo zhongyao zazhi = China journal of Chinese materia medica

Rubiadin 1-methyl ether

1. Zhongguo Zhong yao za zhi = Zhongguo zhongyao zazhi = China journal of Chinese materia medica

Preparations

Prismatomeris tetrandra has 1 reported preparations identified across 2 scientific publications and several other databases. The most consistently reported preparations include root.

Root

1. Zhongguo Zhong yao za zhi = Zhongguo zhongyao zazhi = China journal of Chinese materia medica