Artocarpus

Starr 060703-8343 Artocarpus altilis

Arto aniso T 070203 mncg

Artocarpus camansi 1

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Artocarpus elasticus Reinw. ex Blume - Bendo, Terap

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Artocarpus hirsutus fruit

Artocarpus is a genus of approximately 60 species of trees and shrubs in the Moraceae family, native to the tropics of Southeast Asia, the Pacific Islands, and parts of Oceania. This genus includes economically and culturally significant species, such as Artocarpus altilis (breadfruit) and Artocarpus heterophyllus (jackfruit), which are widely cultivated for their edible fruits. The genus name Artocarpus is derived from the Greek words artos, meaning bread, and karpos, meaning fruit, reflecting the importance of some species as food sources.

Description

Species within the Artocarpus genus are evergreen trees and shrubs that vary greatly in size, from small shrubs to large trees. They are characterized by their simple, large, alternately arranged leaves and their milky sap. The flowers are small, with male and female flowers usually on separate trees (dioecious). The fruits of Artocarpus species are often large, composed of many smaller fruits fused together, and can be highly variable in shape, size, and color.

Cultivation and Uses

Artocarpus species are widely cultivated in their native range and in other tropical regions around the world. The most well-known species, the jackfruit (A. heterophyllus) and the breadfruit (A. altilis), are grown primarily for their fruits, which are consumed in a variety of ways. The fruits can be eaten raw or cooked and are used in a wide range of culinary applications, from traditional dishes to modern culinary creations. Beyond their use as food, the wood of some Artocarpus species is valued for furniture and construction due to its durability and resistance to termites.

Ecological Role

In their natural habitats, Artocarpus trees play a significant role in the ecosystem. They provide food and habitat for a wide range of animals, including birds, insects, and mammals. The large canopy of these trees also offers shade and protection for other plants, contributing to the biodiversity of the forest understory.

Conservation

While some species of Artocarpus are widely cultivated and not considered at risk, others are threatened by habitat loss and overexploitation. Conservation efforts are necessary to ensure the survival of these species in the wild. This includes both in situ conservation, protecting trees in their natural habitats, and ex situ conservation, such as cultivating threatened species in botanical gardens and arboreta.

Selected Species

• Artocarpus altilis – Breadfruit
• Artocarpus heterophyllus – Jackfruit
• Artocarpus integer – Chempedak
• Artocarpus lacucha – Monkey Jack
• Artocarpus odoratissimus – Marang

See Also

• Tropical fruit
• Tree cultivation
• Conservation biology