Gaussia maya facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Gaussia maya |
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|---|---|
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| Conservation status | |
| Scientific classification | |
| Genus: |
Gaussia
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| Species: |
maya
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| Synonyms | |
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Opsiandra maya O.F.Cook |
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The Gaussia maya is a type of palm tree. It grows naturally in Mexico, Belize, and Guatemala. This palm tree likes to grow in rocky areas. It especially thrives in places with limestone soil.
Sadly, the Gaussia maya is a vulnerable plant. This means it is at risk of disappearing forever. Its main threats are habitat destruction and damage to its natural home.
What the Gaussia Maya Looks Like
The Gaussia maya palm can grow quite tall. It usually reaches between 5 and 20 meters (about 16 to 65 feet) high. Its trunk, or stem, is gray. It is typically 10 to 15 centimeters (4 to 6 inches) wide. Some trunks can even be as wide as 30 centimeters (12 inches).
Each tree has about six to eight large pinnately compound leaves. This means the leaves have many leaflets arranged like a feather. The fruit of the Gaussia maya is red. Each fruit is small, about 1 to 1.5 centimeters (0.4 to 0.6 inches) across.
Why the Gaussia Maya Is Important
The stems of the Gaussia maya palm are useful. People in its native regions use them for building things. This shows how important the tree is to local communities.
Protecting the Gaussia Maya
As mentioned, the Gaussia maya is a vulnerable species. This means its numbers are decreasing. It could become endangered or even extinct if we don't protect it. The biggest problems for this palm are habitat destruction and degradation. Habitat destruction happens when natural areas are cleared. This can be for farming, building, or other human activities. Degradation means the habitat is damaged. This makes it harder for the palm to grow and survive. Protecting its natural home is key to helping this unique palm tree survive.
