Dipterocarpaceae
Dipterocarpaceae
Dipterocarpaceae (pronounced dip-ter-o-car-PAY-see-ee) is a family of approximately 695 known species of mainly tropical lowland rainforest trees. The family name is derived from the Greek words di (two), pteron (wing), and karpos (fruit), referring to the two-winged fruit of the type genus Dipterocarpus.
Etymology
The name Dipterocarpaceae comes from the type genus Dipterocarpus, which is derived from Greek di (two), pteron (wing), and karpos (fruit), alluding to the two-winged fruit typical of this family.
Taxonomy
The Dipterocarpaceae family is divided into two subfamilies: Monotoideae and Dipterocarpoideae. The largest genera in the family are Shorea, Hopea, Dipterocarpus, Vatica, and Parashorea.
Distribution and habitat
Dipterocarpaceae trees are predominantly found in the tropical rainforests of Southeast Asia, with some species extending to India, Sri Lanka, Southern China, and the Philippines. They are a major component of these forests, often forming the dominant canopy layer.
Ecology
Dipterocarpaceae trees play a crucial role in the ecosystem of tropical rainforests. They are known for their mass flowering events, which occur irregularly and are thought to be triggered by various environmental cues.
Economic importance
Many species within the Dipterocarpaceae family are of significant economic importance. Their timber, known as dipterocarp timber, is highly valued for construction and furniture making. Some species also produce a type of resin used in varnishes and as a wood preservative.
See also
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Dipterocarpaceae
- Wikipedia's article - Dipterocarpaceae
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