PlantaeHighest rank in taxonomy. Groups all life into domains: Animalia, Plantae, Fungi, etc.IUCN LCInternational Union for Conservation of Nature — the world authority on species extinction risk, using standardized criteria. — Least Concern — widespread and abundant; not at immediate risk of extinction.In ProgressCurrent stage of this record in the editorial review workflow. Recent Sighting
Mauria heterophylla
Copalchí
Ruiz & Pav., 1802
Detailed Texts Multi-lang
The copalchí (Mauria heterophylla) is a medium-sized evergreen tree belonging to the Anacardiaceae family, the same family as the mango, cashew, and poison ivy. Its epithet 'heterophylla' refers to the variability in the shape and size of the leaflets of its imparipinnate compound leaves. It is known in montane forests for producing a caustic sap or resin that, upon contact with human skin, can cause severe dermatitis and allergic reactions, a typical defense mechanism of its family. It has a spreading canopy with dense clusters (panicles) of small white or cream-colored flowers, which later transform into fleshy dark red to purple drupes. Its distribution covers cloud and premontane forests from Costa Rica to the Andes of Peru and Bolivia. In Costa Rica, it is an important component of the mid-canopy in highland areas, where its fruits are a crucial resource for high-mountain avifauna.
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TaxonomyBiological classification ranks placing this species within the tree of life, from Kingdom down to Genus.
PhylumRank below Kingdom. Groups organisms sharing a fundamental body plan (e.g., Chordata = vertebrates and some invertebrates).Tracheophyta
ClassRank below Phylum. Subdivides by structural traits (e.g., Mammalia, Aves, Reptilia, Insecta).Magnoliopsida
OrderRank below Class. Groups related families sharing common ancestry (e.g., Carnivora, Primates).Sapindales
FamilyRank below Order. Groups closely related genera (e.g., Felidae = cats, Canidae = dogs).Anacardiaceae
GenusRank just above Species. The first word in the two-part binomial scientific name.Mauria
Taxonomic AuthorityThe scientist who first formally described and published this species, followed by the year of publication.Ruiz & Pav., 1802
Record Completeness
91%Coming soon
Ecology & StatusHow this species lives: habitat preferences, diet, behavior, population status, and role in its ecosystem.
OriginWhether the species is native (evolved here), endemic (found only here), or introduced by human activity.
Native
Population TrendDirection of change in population size over time: increasing, stable, decreasing, or unknown.
Decreasing
Trophic RolePosition in the food chain: producer, herbivore, carnivore, omnivore, decomposer, or parasite.
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Growth HabitPhysical form and structure of the plant: tree, shrub, herb, vine, epiphyte, aquatic, etc.
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Leaf TypeLeaf characteristics: deciduous (seasonal shed), evergreen, simple, compound, needle-like, etc.
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Flowering SeasonTime of year when this species typically reproduces or flowers.
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Recent SightingsWhether this species has been observed in the wild in Costa Rica within recent years.
Yes
Habitat SummaryOverview of the specific ecosystems and environments where this species is found in Costa Rica. Multi-lang
It is a characteristic tree of premontane and lower montane forests, inhabiting an altitudinal range that generally oscillates between 1,000 and 2,500 meters above sea level. It thrives in the cold, misty, and moisture-saturated environment of cloud forests. It is often found on steep slopes, forest edges, and areas of advanced secondary regeneration, where its branches are usually densely covered in mosses, bromeliads, and other epiphytes. It requires well-drained volcanic soils rich in organic matter.Light & Water NeedsSunlight intensity and moisture levels this plant needs to grow and reproduce successfully. Multi-lang
Information not available in English. Help us expand this record!BehaviourDaily activity patterns, movement, territory use, foraging style, and seasonal behavioral changes. Multi-lang
In the cloud forest ecosystem, flowering and fruiting occur with strict seasonal synchrony. The flowers emerge at the end of the dry season (or the short dry window in the mountains), allowing insect pollinators to work freely. The fruits ripen mid-year, coinciding with heavy rains. The tree grows upright, aggressively competing for light in the dense mid-stratum of the mountainous jungle. Despite its toxicity, its rough bark serves as an indispensable anchoring support for miniature orchids, ferns, and thick mosses.Toxicity / UsesToxic compounds present and their documented effects on humans or other organisms. Multi-lang
Information not available in English. Help us expand this record!Physical Measures
Length (cm)
500.0 - 2000.0 cm
Reproductive StructuresFlowers, fruits, and seeds — the reproductive organs and their seasonal appearance.
Flower Photos (Max 2)
No imageFruit Photos (Max 2)
No imageEvolutionary AdaptationsInherited traits and behaviors that improve the species' survival and reproduction in its specific environment. Multi-lang
Urticating chemical defense: Like many members of Anacardiaceae, the Copalchí produces alkylphenols (similar to urushiol) in its sap, bark, and leaves. This potent chemical barrier deters almost all insects and herbivorous mammals from consuming its foliage or boring into its wood. In humans, just brushing against the leaves or standing under the tree during rain can cause a severe blistering rash.
Adaptive heterophylly: The species name (heterophylla) indicates that the shape and size of its leaves are highly variable. This phenotypic plasticity allows the tree to adjust its leaf surface area depending on its exposure to sunlight in the canopy or to the constant mist, optimizing photosynthesis in the shifting microclimates of the cloud forest.
Selective fruit reward: Its drupes are small, fleshy, and a dark purple or bright red color that stands out against the green foliage. Despite the toxicity of the tree's sap, the fruit pulp is highly nutritious and safe for avian consumption, a perfect evolutionary adaptation to ensure that toucanets and quetzals disperse its seeds over long distances.
Main ThreatsDocumented pressures reducing the population: habitat loss, hunting, disease, climate change, and invasive species. Multi-lang
Loss of montane habitat: Premontane and cloud forest ecosystems face severe pressures due to the expansion of the agricultural frontier, specifically for high-altitude dairy pastures, coffee farming, and horticulture. Deforestation reduces its populations and fragments the corridors of the birds that disperse its seeds.
Climate Change (Cloud base lifting): Global warming is causing the fog belt characteristic of cloud forests to shift to higher altitudes. Species adapted to this specific microclimate and the constant moisture from foliar drip, such as M. heterophylla, could lose their habitat suitability or be forced to migrate toward higher peaks where physical space is limited.
Interesting FactsSurprising or notable facts that highlight what makes this species unique or ecologically important. Multi-lang
Medicinal confusion and toxic danger: In the traditional medicine of Central and South America, the name 'Copalchí' is used for several plants (such as Coutarea latiflora or Croton) whose bark is used for antidiabetic and febrifuge infusions. However, because they share a common name, some people mistakenly harvest the bark of Mauria heterophylla, which results in severe poisoning and inflammation of the respiratory and digestive tracts when consumed.
It is the Central American arboreal version of Poison Ivy. Belonging to the same family as the North American poison ivy (Toxicodendron radicans), it shares its defensive arsenal based on urushiols. Cutting this tree without protective gear results in a painful skin rash that can last for weeks, earning it a notorious reputation among local loggers and farmers.