Chupacallos facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Chupacallos |
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|---|---|
| Conservation status | |
| Scientific classification | |
| Genus: |
Pleodendron
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| Species: |
macranthum
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Pleodendron macranthum is a very rare tree found only in Puerto Rico. It is also known by its local name, chupacallos. This special tree belongs to the Canellaceae family. Sadly, there are only a few small groups of these trees left in the world. Because it is so rare, the United States government has listed it as an endangered species. This means it is protected by law.
Contents
What is Pleodendron macranthum?
This amazing tree is an evergreen, which means it keeps its leaves all year round. It can grow quite tall, reaching up to 10 meters (about 33 feet). Its trunk can be as wide as 20 centimeters (about 8 inches). The wood of this tree is hard and has a white color.
Leaves, Flowers, and Fruit
The leaves of the Pleodendron macranthum are tough and feel a bit like leather. They are dark green, shiny, and have smooth edges. Each leaf can be up to 12.5 centimeters (about 5 inches) long and 5 centimeters (about 2 inches) wide.
The flowers of this tree grow one by one where the leaves meet the stem. Each flower is about 2 centimeters (less than an inch) wide. They have 12 petals, which makes them quite unique. After the flowers, the tree produces fruit. When the fruit is ripe, it turns a dark purple-black color. It is also about 2 centimeters wide.
Where Does It Live?
The Pleodendron macranthum is endemic to Puerto Rico. This means it naturally grows nowhere else in the world. Today, there are only three very small groups of these trees left.
Remaining Populations
Two of these rare trees can be found in the El Yunque National Forest. This is a beautiful rainforest in Puerto Rico. The largest group of these trees, with about 8 to 10 plants, lives in the Río Abajo State Forest. These small numbers show just how critically endangered this species is.
Why is Pleodendron macranthum Endangered?
The main reason this tree is so rare is because of human activities. Over time, many forests in Puerto Rico have been cut down. This process is called deforestation. When forests are cleared, the natural homes, or habitats, of trees like Pleodendron macranthum are destroyed.
Habitat Loss
Changing the forests for other uses, like farming or building, is called habitat modification. This has greatly reduced the areas where Pleodendron macranthum can grow. Protecting the remaining forests is very important to help this special tree survive for future generations.
