MANILKARA PARAENSIS Meaning and
Definition
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Manilkara paraensis, commonly known as Pará rubber tree or simply Pará rubber, is a species of flowering tree in the Sapotaceae family. Native to the Amazon rainforest in Brazil, it is a significant economic plant due to its latex production, which is used in the manufacturing of rubber.
The Pará rubber tree typically grows to be a large tree, reaching heights of up to 30 meters. Its leaves are shiny and green, arranged in an alternate pattern along the branches. The tree produces small, inconspicuous flowers that develop into fruit capsules containing multiple seeds.
One of the defining characteristics of Manilkara paraensis is its ability to produce a milky white latex sap. This sap is extracted by tapping the tree trunk, which involves making incisions in the bark and allowing the latex to flow out. The sap is then collected and processed to remove impurities before being used to make rubber products.
Pará rubber has been cultivated for its latex since the late 19th century and played a significant role in the global rubber industry. However, it has been largely replaced by other rubber-producing species such as Hevea brasiliensis due to its lower latex yield and susceptibility to diseases.
In addition to its economic importance, Manilkara paraensis also serves as a valuable resource for local communities who utilize its wood for construction purposes and traditional medicine. The tree's high resilience and adaptability make it an important species for agroforestry and ecological restoration initiatives.
Etymology of MANILKARA PARAENSIS
The word "Manilkara paraensis" is derived from the scientific nomenclature used in taxonomy. Let's break it down:
1. Manilkara: "Manilkara" is the genus name. It is a genus of plants in the Sapotaceae family, commonly known as the sapodilla family. The name "Manilkara" is derived from a combination of the local name for the sapodilla tree in Guyana and Suriname, where the species was first described.
2. paraensis: "Paraensis" is the species epithet. It indicates that the species was found in the State of Pará, Brazil. The suffix "-ensis" is commonly used in taxonomy to refer to the specific location or region where the species was discovered or is native to.
