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Puerto Rico palo de gallina

Scientific Name: Alchorneopsis portoricensis

Family: Euphorbiaceae

Category: Dicot

Growth: Tree

Duration: Perennial

Other Names:

       

Green Iguana (Iguana iguana) and Palo de Gallina (Alchorneopsis portoricensis)

This page provides information about two plants commonly referred to as "Gallina de Palo," the Green Iguana (Iguana iguana) and Alchorneopsis portoricensis, also referred to as Puerto Rico Palo de Gallina.

The text references two species under the same common name and is therefore divided into two sections below.

Green Iguana (Iguana iguana)

Also known colloquially as "Gallina de Palo," this species is discussed extensively in the context of Puerto Rico.

Considerations for Pets
  • This species is an animal and will require care and maintenance if kept as a pet.
Common Names:
  • Scientific Name: Iguana iguana
  • Common Names: Green Iguana, Gallina de Palo (especially in Puerto Rico), Garrobo, Iguana Verde, Iguana
Distribution and Habitat:
  • Native to Central and South America.
  • Introduced and naturalized in Puerto Rico, where it is now a common sight.
Ecological Role:
  • Considered an invasive species in Puerto Rico.
  • Causes problems for farmers by damaging crops.
Interactions with Organisms:
  • Debate exists regarding diet consisting of solely plants or if small animals are also consumed.

Alchorneopsis portoricensis

Known as Puerto Rico Palo de Gallina, this species is a tree found in Puerto Rico and the Virgin Islands.

Common Names:
  • Scientific Name: Alchorneopsis portoricensis
  • Common Names: Palo de Gallina (Spanish), Puerto Rico Palo de Gallina, rbol de la gallina (Cuba), Bois corne (Haiti), Cajuil cimarrn, Palo gallina (Cuba), Paralejo (Puerto Rico)
Taxonomy and Nomenclature:
  • Family: (Implied but not explicitly stated in text)
  • Scientific Name Reference: Symb. Antill. (Urban). 1(2): 337. 1899
  • Rank: Species
Distribution and Habitat:
  • Found in Puerto Rico and the Virgin Islands.
Morphological Characteristics:
  • Described as a tree.
Further Information:
  • Information available from Discover Life's page on Alchorneopsis portoricensis.