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Langsdorf's Copaifera (Copaifera langsdorffii)

Copaifera langsdorffii, also known as Langsdorf's copaifera, is a tropical rainforest tree with several common names reflecting its unique properties. These include diesel tree and kerosene tree, as well as copaiba. It is also known by various names in local languages, such as kupa'y and cabismo.

Taxonomy and Nomenclature

• Scientific Name: Copaifera langsdorffii Desf.
• Family: Fabaceae (Legume family)
• Subfamily: Caesalpinioideae
• Kingdom: Plantae
• Rank: Species
• Synonyms: Balsamum copaivae, Copaifera officinalis, Copaiva, Copaiva officinalis, Copal, Balsam of copaiva.
• Nomenclatural Reference: Mm. Mus. Hist. Nat. 7: 377. 1821.

Distribution and Habitat

Copaifera langsdorffii is distributed in northern and central South America, including Guyana and Brazil. It is a tropical, deciduous, heliophytic (sun-loving), selective xerophytic (drought-tolerant) tree species.

Morphological Characteristics and Growth Habits

Copaifera langsdorffii is described as a tree ranging from 7 to 30 meters in height. Various species of Copaifera are usually small trees.

Ecological Role

It is noted that Copaifera langsdorffii can contain medicinal compounds that may also be allelopathic and inhibitory to plant growth.

Interactions with Other Organisms

• There are known interactions between Copaifera langsdorffii and Cecidomyiidae (a family of gall midges).

Traditional Uses

• Copaifera langsdorffii produces a commercially valuable oil-resin, known as copaiba, which is extensively used in folk medicine.

Quirky Facts

• The tree is called "diesel tree" and "kerosene tree" because its resin can be used as a fuel source.
• George Heinrich, Freiherr von Langsdorff, was a Russian consul general at Rio, after whom the plant is named.
• Copaifera langsdorffii leaves have been shown to be a rich source of active peroxidase (COP).

Resources and Further Information

• Encyclopedia of Life
• Discover Life