https://wikimd.org/index.php?action=history&feed=atom&title=AcaciaAcacia - Revision history2026-04-25T06:20:03ZRevision history for this page on the wikiMediaWiki 1.44.2https://wikimd.org/index.php?title=Acacia&diff=5831871&oldid=prevPrab: CSV import2024-05-27T01:51:14Z<p>CSV import</p>
<p><b>New page</b></p><div>[[File:Acacia baileyana 3, Canberra ACT.JPG|thumb|Acacia baileyana 3, Canberra ACT|right]] [[File:Acacia dealbata kz09.jpg|thumb|Acacia dealbata kz09|left]] [[File:Acacia penninervis (5368395701).jpg|thumb|Acacia penninervis (5368395701).jpg]] [[File:Acacia retinodes MucBotGard.jpg|thumb|Acacia retinodes MucBotGard|right]] [[File:Wattle sign. Olive Pink Reserve, Alice Springs.jpg|thumb|Wattle sign. Olive Pink Reserve, Alice Springs|right]] '''Acacia''' is a large genus of shrubs and trees belonging to the subfamily [[Mimosoideae]] of the family [[Fabaceae]]. Initially, it comprised a group of plant species native to Africa and Australia, but it has since been divided into several genera. The genus Acacia remains significant in various ecological, economic, and cultural contexts.<br />
==Description==<br />
Acacia species are characterized by their small, finely divided leaflets, which give the leaf a feathery or fern-like (bipinnate) appearance. Some species have modified their leaves into spines or thorns, which serve as a defense mechanism against herbivores. The flowers are typically small and arranged in dense clusters, often yellow or white, and are known for their sweet fragrance.<br />
==Distribution==<br />
Acacia species are predominantly found in [[Australia]], where they are commonly known as wattles. They are also native to regions in [[Africa]], [[Asia]], and the [[Americas]]. The genus has adapted to a wide range of environments, from arid deserts to tropical rainforests.<br />
==Ecology==<br />
Acacias play a crucial role in their ecosystems. They are known for their symbiotic relationship with nitrogen-fixing bacteria, which allows them to thrive in nutrient-poor soils. This characteristic makes them important pioneer species in ecological succession. Additionally, Acacias provide habitat and food for various wildlife, including insects, birds, and mammals.<br />
==Uses==<br />
Acacias have numerous uses, both traditional and commercial. The wood of some species is valued for its hardness and durability, making it suitable for furniture and construction. The bark of certain Acacias is rich in tannins, which are used in the leather tanning industry. Additionally, Acacia gum, also known as [[gum arabic]], is harvested from several species and is used in food, pharmaceuticals, and cosmetics.<br />
==Cultural Significance==<br />
In many cultures, Acacias hold symbolic and practical importance. For example, in [[Australia]], the golden wattle (''Acacia pycnantha'') is the national floral emblem. In [[ancient Egypt]], Acacia wood was used in the construction of coffins and other sacred items.<br />
==Taxonomy==<br />
The genus Acacia was first described by the Swedish botanist [[Carl Linnaeus]] in 1754. Over time, the genus has been subject to extensive taxonomic revision. In 2005, it was proposed to split the genus into several genera, including ''Vachellia'' and ''Senegalia'', based on genetic and morphological differences.<br />
==Selected Species==<br />
* ''[[Acacia dealbata]]'' - Silver Wattle<br />
* ''[[Acacia melanoxylon]]'' - Blackwood<br />
* ''[[Acacia nilotica]]'' - Gum Arabic Tree<br />
* ''[[Acacia pycnantha]]'' - Golden Wattle<br />
==Gallery==<br />
<gallery><br />
File:Acacia dealbata.jpg|''Acacia dealbata''<br />
File:Acacia pycnantha.jpg|''Acacia pycnantha''<br />
</gallery><br />
==See Also==<br />
* [[Fabaceae]]<br />
* [[Mimosoideae]]<br />
* [[Nitrogen fixation]]<br />
* [[Gum arabic]]<br />
==References==<br />
{{Reflist}}<br />
==External Links==<br />
{{Commons category|Acacia}}<br />
{{Wikispecies|Acacia}}<br />
[[Category:Acacia]]<br />
[[Category:Fabaceae]]<br />
[[Category:Flora of Australia]]<br />
[[Category:Flora of Africa]]<br />
[[Category:Trees]]<br />
[[Category:Shrubs]]<br />
{{Fabaceae-stub}}</div>Prab