Chrysobalanaceae

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Maranthes polyandra MS3969

Chrysobalanaceae is a family of flowering plants belonging to the order Malpighiales. This family is comprised of trees, shrubs, and rarely herbs, with a distribution that spans tropical and subtropical regions worldwide, with a particular concentration in the Neotropics. The family includes approximately 17 genera and about 500 species. The members of this family are characterized by their simple, alternate leaves, which often have a toothed or entire margin. The flowers are usually small, with five petals and numerous stamens, and they can be found in various colors, including white, pink, and yellow. The fruit of Chrysobalanaceae plants is typically a drupe.

Characteristics

Members of the Chrysobalanaceae family exhibit a wide range of characteristics but share some common features. The leaves are generally simple, with a stipulate, alternate arrangement, and the leaf margins can be entire or serrate. The flowers, which are often arranged in racemes or panicles, have a bilateral symmetry and are predominantly hermaphroditic. The calyx and corolla consist of five segments each, and the ovary is superior with one to several ovules per carpel.

Distribution

The Chrysobalanaceae family has a broad distribution in tropical and subtropical regions, with a significant number of species found in the Amazon Basin and the Atlantic Forest of Brazil. They are also present in Africa, Asia, and the Pacific Islands, demonstrating the family's wide adaptability to different climatic and geographical conditions.

Ecology

Plants within the Chrysobalanaceae family play essential roles in their ecosystems. Many species are important as food sources for wildlife, including birds and mammals, which in turn help in seed dispersal. The dense foliage of some species provides shelter and nesting sites for various animals. In tropical forests, these plants contribute significantly to the biodiversity and structural complexity of the habitat.

Economic Importance

Several species within the Chrysobalanaceae family have economic importance. Some are harvested for their timber, which is used in construction and furniture making due to its durability and resistance to rot. Others are cultivated for their edible fruits or as ornamental plants, adding economic value to the regions where they are grown.

Genera

Some of the notable genera within the Chrysobalanaceae family include:

• Hirtella
• Chrysobalanus
• Licania
• Parinari

Each of these genera encompasses a variety of species with unique characteristics and adaptations, contributing to the diversity within the family.

Conservation

The conservation status of Chrysobalanaceae species varies widely. While some species are common and have stable populations, others are threatened by habitat destruction, overexploitation, and climate change. Conservation efforts are essential to protect these species and their habitats, ensuring the preservation of biodiversity and the ecological functions they support.