ALNUS FORMOSANA Meaning and
Definition
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Alnus formosana, commonly known as Formosan alder, is a deciduous tree species belonging to the family Betulaceae. Native to Taiwan, it is predominantly found in the mountainous regions of the island.
Formosan alder typically reaches a height of around 20 meters, with a straight, sturdy trunk. The bark is dark brown and rough in texture, featuring shallow fissures as the tree matures. The leaves of Alnus formosana are alternate, oval-shaped, and serrated along the margins. They are typically dark green and glossy on the top surface, while the underside appears paler in color.
This tree species is monoecious, meaning it bears both male and female flowers on the same tree. The male flowers are catkins that hang down from the branches, while the female flowers are smaller and more compact. The flowers bloom in early spring before the leaves fully unfurl.
As a fast-growing and hardy species, Alnus formosana is often valued for its ability to stabilize soil and prevent erosion, making it suitable for reforestation efforts. The tree has a symbiotic relationship with nitrogen-fixing bacteria, allowing it to thrive in nutrient-poor soils. Formosan alder is also known for its ecological importance, supporting a variety of insects, birds, and mammals in its native habitat.
Etymology of ALNUS FORMOSANA
The word "Alnus formosana" is a scientific name for a type of tree known as the Formosan alder. The etymology of this term can be explained as follows:
1. Alnus: This is the genus name of many species of alders, which are deciduous trees or shrubs in the birch family (Betulaceae). The genus name "Alnus" is derived from the Latin word "Alnus", which means "alder tree".
2. Formosana: This is the specific epithet used to describe the Formosan alder. It is derived from the Latin word "Formosa", which means "beautiful" or "handsome". The suffix "-ana" is added to indicate that the species is native or related to a specific place, in this case, Taiwan (formerly known as Formosa).
