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Merrilliodendron megacarpum

Scientific Name: Merrilliodendron megacarpum

Family: Icacinaceae

Category: Dicot

Growth:

Duration:

Other Names:

       

Merrilliodendron megacarpum

Merrilliodendron megacarpum is the accepted scientific name for a plant species within the genus Merrilliodendron. A common name for this plant is "Faniok," particularly in Chamorro.

Considerations for Pets

  • The provided text does not explicitly state that Merrilliodendron megacarpum is safe or toxic for pets.
  • Please consult with a veterinarian to confirm this plant's safety for pets.

Considerations for Children

  • The provided text does not explicitly state that Merrilliodendron megacarpum is safe or toxic for children.
  • Please consult with a medical professional to confirm this plant's safety for children.

Taxonomy and Nomenclature

  • Scientific Name: Merrilliodendron megacarpum (Hemsl.) Sleumer
  • Family: Icacinaceae
  • Rank: Species
  • Synonyms: Stemonurus megacarpus (Hemsl.)
  • Alternative Spelling: Merrilliodendron megacarpum (Hemsley) Sleumer

Distribution and Habitat

  • Native to regions including Guam and the Philippines.
  • Found in western Pacific areas.
  • Specific habitats include limestone forests, often forming groves.

Morphological Characteristics

  • Growth form: Shrub or generally a tree, ranging from (3-)6-15(-25) meters in height.
  • Bole: Straight, sometimes fluted, up to 55 cm in diameter.
  • Leaves: Oblong to oblong-ovate, with a shortly attenuate apex.

Ecological Role

  • The plant's abundance has a positive relationship with the abundance of the Rota white-eye bird.
  • Nests of the Rota Bridled White-eye have been found in this species.

Quirky Facts

  • Merrilliodendron megacarpum is associated with the vernacular name "camptothecin," because it contains an anticancer compound. Camptothecin was initially isolated from Camptotheca acuminata.
  • In Chamorro, this tree species is called "Faniok."

Further Information

  • Encyclopedia of Life
  • The Plant List
  • IPNI (International Plant Names Index)
  • Australian Plant Name Index
  • NYBG (New York Botanical Garden) Virtual Herbarium
  • PubMed (for constituents research)
  • Flora Malesiana, vol. 7(1): p. 50, fig. 19 (1971) J.T. 68