Species of tree
Schizolaena hystrix is a tree in the family Sarcolaenaceae. It is endemic to Madagascar. The specific epithet hystrix means 'spiny', referring to the porcupine-like appearance of the involucre.[3]
Description
Schizolaena hystrix grows as a large tree up to 35 metres (110 ft) tall. Its leaves are coriaceous.[3] The spiny involucre is fleshy and is thought to attract lemurs, bats and birds who in turn disperse the tree's seeds.[1]
Distribution and habitat
Schizolaena hystrix is known only from the northeastern regions of Sava, Alaotra-Mangoro, Analanjirofo and Atsinanana.[2] Its habitat is humid evergreen forests from sea-level to 1,500 m (5,000 ft) altitude.[1]
Threats
Schizolaena hystrix is threatened by deforestation and by threats to the lemur. Deforestation due to shifting agriculture is occurring outside protected areas. However, 9 of 14 subpopulations of the tree are within protected areas. Threats to lemurs would in turn affect the tree's reproduction due to their role in seed dispersal.[1]
References
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