Pericopsis elata

Pericopsis elata, commonly known as Afrormosia or African Teak, is a species of leguminous tree in the family Fabaceae. It is native to the tropical forests of West and Central Africa, spanning countries such as Ghana, Ivory Coast, Nigeria, Cameroon, and the Democratic Republic of Congo. This species is of significant economic importance due to its high-quality timber, which is used in furniture, flooring, and boat building. However, its valuable wood has also led to over-exploitation and illegal logging, resulting in its classification as an endangered species.

Description

Pericopsis elata is a large deciduous tree, reaching heights of up to 50 meters with a trunk diameter of up to 1.5 meters. The bark is smooth and grayish in color. The leaves are compound, with three leaflets that are dark green and glossy. The tree produces small, yellowish flowers, which are followed by pod-like fruits containing seeds.

Habitat and Distribution

The natural habitat of Pericopsis elata is the moist tropical forests, where it prefers well-drained soils. It is found at elevations up to 1000 meters. The species is distributed across several countries in West and Central Africa, including Ghana, Ivory Coast, Nigeria, Cameroon, and the Democratic Republic of Congo. Due to its specific habitat requirements and the threat from deforestation, its distribution has become fragmented.

Conservation Status

Pericopsis elata has been listed as Endangered on the IUCN Red List. The main threats to its survival are habitat loss due to agricultural expansion and over-exploitation for its valuable timber. Despite international trade regulations, such as those imposed by CITES (the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora), illegal logging and trade of Afrormosia continue to pose significant threats to its populations.

Uses

The wood of Pericopsis elata is highly prized for its durability, resistance to termites, and its beautiful golden to dark brown color, which resembles teak. It is commonly used in high-end furniture, flooring, veneer, and boat construction. The wood's fine texture and natural luster also make it a popular choice for decorative purposes.

Management and Conservation Efforts

To ensure the survival of Pericopsis elata, several conservation measures have been implemented. These include the regulation of trade through CITES, the establishment of protected areas within its natural range, and the promotion of sustainable forest management practices. Additionally, research into the species' ecology and reproductive biology is being conducted to inform conservation strategies.

See Also

• Fabaceae
• Endangered species
• Sustainable forest management
• CITES