Theobroma facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Cacao |
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| Cacao tree with fruit pods | |
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Sterculiaceae
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Theobroma
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Theobroma is a group of about 20 different species of small trees. They grow naturally in the forests of Central and South America. The name Theobroma means food of the gods.
These trees belong to the plant family called Sterculiaceae. Sometimes, they are also placed in the Malvaceae family.
Amazing Edible Seeds
Many Theobroma trees have edible seeds. The most famous one is the Cacao tree. Its seeds are used to make cocoa and chocolate! Other well-known trees in this group include Cupuaçu and Mocambo.
Theobroma and Moths
Some moths use Theobroma species as food plants when they are young larvae (caterpillars). These include moths from the group Endoclita, like E. chalybeatus and E. hosei. There's also a special moth called Hypercompe muzina whose caterpillars eat only Theobroma cacao leaves.
Images for kids
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From left to right: T. grandiflorum, T. bicolor, T. speciosum, T. cacao
See also
In Spanish: Theobroma para niños
