GENUS SWIETINIA Meaning and
Definition
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Genus Swietinia is a botanical term that refers to a genus of trees in the Meliaceae family, commonly known as mahogany trees. The word "genus" signifies a taxonomic rank that groups together closely related species, indicating shared characteristics and ancestry.
Swietinia trees are native to tropical regions, particularly found in South and Central America, Africa, and Asia. They are renowned for their highly sought-after, durable, and valuable timber, which gives them significant economic and commercial importance. The wood obtained from the trees of the Genus Swietinia is commonly referred to as mahogany.
These trees typically have tall, straight trunks with a crown of symmetrical, large, pinnate leaves. The leaves are usually composed of several leaflets arranged on opposite sides of a central stem. Swietinia trees also produce fragrant, small, usually white or yellowish flowers that grow in clusters. These flowers eventually develop into fruit capsules that contain numerous winged seeds dispersed by wind.
The genus Swietinia comprises three recognized species: Swietinia macrophylla, Swietinia mahagoni, and Swietinia humilis. Despite some overlapping features, these species can be distinguished based on variations in their geographical distribution, leaf shape, flower structure, and overall tree characteristics.
Due to overexploitation and habitat loss, many Swietinia species are now listed as threatened or endangered. As a result, international regulations have been put in place to restrict the trade and ensure sustainable practices in the harvesting of Swietinia timber.
Common Misspellings for GENUS SWIETINIA
- fenus swietinia
- venus swietinia
- benus swietinia
- henus swietinia
- yenus swietinia
- tenus swietinia
- gwnus swietinia
- gsnus swietinia
- gdnus swietinia
- grnus swietinia
- g4nus swietinia
- g3nus swietinia
- gebus swietinia
- gemus swietinia
- gejus swietinia
- gehus swietinia
- genys swietinia
- genhs swietinia
- genjs swietinia
Etymology of GENUS SWIETINIA
The word "Swietenia" primarily refers to the genus of trees that are commonly known as mahogany. The etymology of "Swietenia" can be traced back to the Latin name "Swietenia", which is derived from the surname of Gerard van Swieten. Gerard van Swieten was an 18th-century Dutch-Austrian physician and botanist who served as the personal physician to Empress Maria Theresa of Austria. He had a significant influence on the field of botany, and several plant species were named after him in recognition of his contributions. Thus, "Swietenia" is a tribute to Gerard van Swieten and his contributions to the field of plant science.
