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
Manilkara chicle
Chicle Tree
(Pittier) Gilly, 1943
Detailed Texts Multi-lang
Large evergreen tree with a straight trunk and deeply fissured bark that exudes a milky white latex when wounded. Its leaves are elliptical and leathery, and it produces globose fruits with sweet, edible pulp.
Added by
Anonymous Curator
Reviewed by
Under Review
Last modified by
Julia Trouin
Other Names (Global)Regional and multilingual names used for this species across different countries and languages.
ChicozapoteZapote de montaña
Crown gumMameycilloTaxonomyBiological 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).Ericales
FamilyRank below Order. Groups closely related genera (e.g., Felidae = cats, Canidae = dogs).Sapotaceae
GenusRank just above Species. The first word in the two-part binomial scientific name.Manilkara
Taxonomic AuthorityThe scientist who first formally described and published this species, followed by the year of publication.(Pittier) Gilly, 1943
Record Completeness
93%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.
Stable
Trophic RolePosition in the food chain: producer, herbivore, carnivore, omnivore, decomposer, or parasite.
--
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.
Wet Season
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
Inhabits humid and sub-humid tropical rainforests from Mexico to Colombia. It is a common species in lowlands and premontane forests, adapted to limestone soils.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
It is a long-lived, slow-growing species that forms part of the upper canopy. Its latex serves as a defense mechanism against herbivores and pathogens, quickly sealing trunk wounds.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)
3000.0 - 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
Sticky and bitter latex that acts as a natural repellent against termites and other boring insects.
Extremely dense wood that sinks in water and resists fungal decay for decades.
Main ThreatsDocumented pressures reducing the population: habitat loss, hunting, disease, climate change, and invasive species. Multi-lang
Deforestation for agriculture, removing mature trees that are vital for seed dispersal.
Incorrect bleeding practices in the past to extract chicle that weakened or killed many individuals.
Interesting FactsSurprising or notable facts that highlight what makes this species unique or ecologically important. Multi-lang
The latex of this tree was the original basis of the world's chewing gum industry (chicle).
Its wood is so durable that chicle beams found in Mayan temples are still preserved in good condition after centuries.