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
Brosimum alicastrum
Maya Nut
Sw., 1788
Detailed Texts Multi-lang
A majestic, evergreen canopy tree reaching up to 45 meters tall, characterized by a straight cylindrical trunk with smooth grey bark, a dense spreading crown, dark green glossy leaves, and abundant production of highly nutritious, round yellow-orange fruits containing a single large seed.
Added by
Anonymous Curator
Reviewed by
Under Review
Last modified by
Julia Trouin
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).Rosales
FamilyRank below Order. Groups closely related genera (e.g., Felidae = cats, Canidae = dogs).Moraceae
GenusRank just above Species. The first word in the two-part binomial scientific name.Brosimum
Taxonomic AuthorityThe scientist who first formally described and published this species, followed by the year of publication.Sw., 1788
Record Completeness
66%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.
Primary Producer
Growth HabitPhysical form and structure of the plant: tree, shrub, herb, vine, epiphyte, aquatic, etc.
--
Leaf TypeLeaf characteristics: deciduous (seasonal shed), evergreen, simple, compound, needle-like, etc.
--
Flowering SeasonTime of year when this species typically reproduces or flowers.
Year Round
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
Thrives in tropical moist and dry primary forests, frequently dominating karst limestone soils and well-drained alluvial plains. It ranges from sea level up to 1,200 meters, showing high resilience across various moisture gradients.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
Functions as a critical structural and ecological keystone species in neotropical forests. Its massive evergreen canopy provides microclimate stability, permanent shade, and high-quality nesting platforms for complex arboreal communities.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)
2000.0 - 4500.0 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
Deploys an extensive, deep taproot and widespread structural root system that allows the tree to extract moisture from deep rock fissures, surviving prolonged droughts that cause other canopy species to drop leaves.
Exudes a thick, white, non-toxic milky latex from its bark and leaves when cut, which serves as a highly effective chemical and mechanical deterrent against herbivorous insects and boring beetles.
Main ThreatsDocumented pressures reducing the population: habitat loss, hunting, disease, climate change, and invasive species. Multi-lang
Severe habitat loss driven by widespread deforestation for cattle ranching, intensive agricultural conversion, and urban fragmentation within its native Central American range.
Over-harvesting of wild seeds and heavy local collection of branches as emergency cattle forage during severe dry seasons, which limits natural forest regeneration cycles.
Interesting FactsSurprising or notable facts that highlight what makes this species unique or ecologically important. Multi-lang
Ancient Maya civilizations highly valued and cultivated this tree; its seeds are nutritional powerhouses packed with protein, calcium, and antioxidants, serving as a vital drought-resistant food security crop.