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sea putat
Scientific Name: Barringtonia asiatica
Family: Lecythidaceae
Category: Dicot
Growth: Tree
Duration: Perennial
Other Names:
Barringtonia asiatica: The Sea Poison Tree
Barringtonia asiatica, commonly known as the Fish Poison Tree, Putat, or Sea Poison Tree, is a fascinating species found in tropical coastal regions. Its unique characteristics and history make it a notable plant.
Considerations for Pets
- The plant is known as the Fish Poison Tree, which suggests its fruit or other parts may contain substances that could be harmful if ingested.
Taxonomy and Nomenclature
- Scientific Name: Barringtonia asiatica (L.) Kurz
- Common Names: Fish Poison Tree, Putat, Sea Poison Tree, Putat Laut, Sea Putat, Beach Barringtonia, Fish-killer Tree
- Family: Lecythidaceae
- Synonyms: Some texts also reference Barringtonia acutangula, Sea Fruit, Freshwater Mangrove, and Indian Oak, but the context suggests they may be related but distinct species.
Distribution and Habitat
- Barringtonia asiatica is native to mangrove habitats on tropical coasts and islands.
- It grows on sandy and rocky shores.
- Specific locations mentioned include Papua New Guinea, Hawaii, and Sulawesi, Indonesia (Tangkoko Nature Reserve).
Morphological Characteristics
- It is a large tree with large, waxy leaves.
- The flowers are described as stunning pinkish pom-poms that open at night and fall to the ground in the morning.
- The fruits are buoyant.
Ecological Role
- The buoyant fruits of Barringtonia asiatica facilitate its dispersal along sea shores.
Interactions with Other Organisms
- Historically, the fruit has been used as a fish poison by fishermen.