Family: Arecaceae
Author: Mart.
Bibliography: Hist. Nat. Palm. 2: 24 (1823)
Year: 1823
Status: accepted
Rank: species
Genus: Oenocarpus
Vegetable: False
Observations: S. Trop. America
Description
The Bacaba palm, scientifically identified as Oenocarpus bacaba, is a remarkable species within the Arecaceae family. This palm is indigenous to the tropical regions of South America, specifically Southern Tropical America, where it thrives in the warm, humid climate.
First documented in “Hist. Nat. Palm.” 2: 24, in the year 1823 by Mart., the Bacaba palm has intrigued botanists and plant enthusiasts alike with its unique properties and adaptability. Known for its slender trunk, which often reaches impressive heights, the Bacaba palm is a staple member of the rainforest ecosystem. Its feathery leaves, consisting of numerous narrow leaflets, form a lush green canopy that offers both shade and habitat for various wildlife species.
One of the defining characteristics of the Oenocarpus bacaba is its fruit. The Bacaba palm produces clusters of small, dark purple berries that are not only visually striking but also packed with nutritional value. These berries are harvested and utilized extensively by local communities. Rich in vitamins and antioxidants, Bacaba berries are often processed to make juices, beverages, and dietary supplements, contributing significantly to both local diets and the economy.
In addition to its nutritional benefits, the Bacaba palm also plays a critical ecological role. Its presence in tropical forests helps maintain biodiversity by providing food and shelter to numerous organisms. Furthermore, its roots contribute to soil stabilization, preventing erosion and promoting a healthy forest floor.
The cultivation and wider appreciation of the Bacaba palm are essential in preserving these biodiverse ecosystems. As a species with considerable economic and ecological importance, it underscores the overarching need for conservation efforts to protect not only this palm but the myriad other species that share its habitat.
Common Names
Eng: bacaba palm
Por: bacaba-açu
En: Bacaba palm
Zh: 酒果椰
Fr: Comou
Gn: Makava
Pt: Bacaba-açu
Synonyms
- Oenocarpus grandis (Burret)
- Oenocarpus hoppii (Burret)
- Oenocarpus bacaba var. grandis ((Burret) Wess.Boer)
- Areca bacaba (Arruda)
Distribution
- Brazil North (native)
- Colombia (native)
- French Guiana (native)
- Guyana (native)
- Suriname (native)
- Venezuela (native)
Additional Images
Bark
Taken Mar 11, 2013 by C. Geniez (cc-by-sa)
Taken Mar 11, 2013 by C. Geniez (cc-by-sa)
Taken Mar 11, 2013 by C. Geniez (cc-by-sa)
Taken Mar 11, 2013 by C. Geniez (cc-by-sa)
Taken Mar 11, 2013 by C. Geniez (cc-by-sa)
Other
Taken Mar 12, 2013 by R. Tournebize (cc-by-sa)
Leaf
Taken Mar 15, 2022 by Salome Hubin (cc-by-sa)
Taken Mar 15, 2022 by Salome Hubin (cc-by-sa)
Taken Sep 6, 2021 by velez Luis (cc-by-sa)
© copyright of the Board of Trustees of the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew.
© copyright of the Board of Trustees of the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew.
Sources
- WFO (No URL)
- IPNI (No URL)
- GBIF (https://www.gbif.org/species/2735454)
- POWO (http://powo.science.kew.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:668509-1)
- PlantNet (https://identify.plantnet.org/species/the-plant-list/Oenocarpus bacaba Mart.)