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Acacia nilotica ssp. kraussiana

Scientific Name: Acacia nilotica ssp. kraussiana

Family: Fabaceae

Category: Dicot

Growth:

Duration:

Other Names:

       

Acacia nilotica subsp. kraussiana: A Detailed Overview

Acacia nilotica subsp. kraussiana, a subspecies of Acacia nilotica, is known by several common names including Gum Arabic Tree, Nile Acacia, Scented-pod Acacia, Babul Acacia, Egyptian Thorn, Sant tree, Al-Sant, and Thorn Mimosa. It is also referred to as Prickly Acacia, though this name is more commonly associated with its invasive potential.

Considerations for Pets

  • The text mentions that the subspecies *kraussiana* has pods that have been reported as toxic to some species.
  • The name *Acacia* is derived from the Greek word 'akis', meaning sharp point, suggesting the presence of thorns or spines.

Considerations for Children

  • The name *Acacia* is derived from the Greek word 'akis', meaning sharp point, suggesting the presence of thorns or spines.

Taxonomy and Nomenclature

  • Scientific Name: Acacia nilotica subsp. kraussiana (Benth.) Brenan
  • Synonyms:
    • Acacia benthamiana Rochebr.
    • Acacia benthamii Rochebr.
    • Acacia nilotica subsp. subalata sensu auct.
    • Vachellia nilotica subsp. kraussiana
    • Mimosa nilotica Thunb.
    • Acacia arabica (Lam.) Willd. var. kraussiana Benth.
    • Acacia nilotica (L.) Willd. ex Del. subsp. kraussiana (Vatke) Brenan
  • Family: Fabaceae (alt.)
  • Note: The text mentions the complex history of the name change for African Acacias.

Distribution and Habitat

  • This subspecies is native to southern Africa.
  • It thrives in dry grasslands and savannas.

Ecological Role

  • Acacia nilotica, particularly Prickly Acacia, is listed as a Weed of National Significance (WONS) in Queensland, Australia.
  • It poses a problem in Mitchell grass downs due to its invasive nature.

Morphological Characteristics

  • It is described as a semi-deciduous tree.
  • The bark is rough, deeply fissured, and dark grey.
  • The leaves are fine and hairy.
  • It has bright yellow flowers in round heads.
  • The pods are variable within the *Acacia nilotica* complex.

Genetic and Cytological Information

  • Acacia nilotica subsp. kraussiana is a naturally occurring autotetraploid species.
  • Genetic variability exists among the nine subspecies of Acacia nilotica, with *kraussiana* distinguishing itself genetically.

Interactions with Other Organisms

  • The leaf-feeding caterpillar Cometaster pyrula has been found feeding on Acacia nilotica subsp. kraussiana.

Uses

  • It provides fodder and shade, particularly in dry seasons.
  • It has potential medicinal value, and its bark contains bioactive compounds.

Further Information

  • Additional information can be found on the Encyclopedia of Life (EOL).
  • ARKive has amazing photos of the Gum Arabic Tree (Acacia nilotica).
  • Brenan's Catalogue of Life includes information on *Acacia nilotica* subsp. *kraussiana*.