Majagua facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Majagua |
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|---|---|
| Conservation status | |
| Scientific classification | |
| Genus: |
Hampea
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| Species: |
reynae
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The Hampea reynae, also known as the majagua tree, is a type of flowering plant. It belongs to the Malvaceae family, which includes plants like cotton and hibiscus. This special tree is found only in the cloud forests of El Salvador. When a plant or animal is found only in one specific place, it's called endemic.
A scientist named Paul Fryxell first described this plant in 1980. The Hampea reynae is an important part of its unique forest home.
Contents
What is the Hampea Reynae?
The Hampea reynae is a tree that grows in the misty, high-altitude cloud forests. These forests are very wet and cool, which is perfect for many unique plants and animals. The tree is known for its flowers, which are a key part of its life cycle.
Where Does the Majagua Tree Live?
The majagua tree lives in the cloud forests of El Salvador. These forests are often covered in clouds or fog, which keeps the air very humid. This humidity is important for the plants and animals that live there. El Salvador is a country in Central America, known for its beautiful landscapes and diverse wildlife.
How Was the Hampea Reynae Discovered?
The Hampea reynae was first officially described by a botanist named Paul Fryxell. Botanists are scientists who study plants. Fryxell wrote about this new species in 1980, giving it its scientific name. Discovering new species helps us understand the amazing variety of life on Earth.
Why is the Hampea Reynae Important?
Every species plays a role in its ecosystem. The Hampea reynae, being endemic to El Salvador, is a unique part of its local environment. It provides habitat or food for other creatures. Protecting this tree helps protect the entire cloud forest ecosystem.
What is a Cloud Forest?
A cloud forest is a type of tropical forest that is often covered in clouds or fog. These forests are usually found in mountains at high elevations. The constant moisture from the clouds creates a unique environment where many rare plants and animals can thrive. They are very important for biodiversity and water cycles.
What Does Endemic Mean?
When a species is described as endemic, it means it naturally lives only in a specific geographic area. For example, the Hampea reynae is endemic to El Salvador. This makes endemic species very special and often more vulnerable, because if their specific habitat is harmed, they have nowhere else to go.
See also
In Spanish: Hampea reynae para niños
