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
Zamia neurophyllidia
Zamia / Nerve-leaf Cycad
D.W.Stev., 1993
Detailed Texts Multi-lang
Zamia neurophyllidia is a low-growing cycad, described as a 'living fossil' that has persisted almost unchanged since the era of the dinosaurs. It is characterized by a short, cylindrical stem, often underground or decumbent, up to 60 cm in height. Its most distinctive feature is the foliage: it has lustrous, dark green pinnate leaves whose leaflets exhibit very prominent veins on the underside (hence the name neurophyllidia). The leaflets are elliptical to lanceolate and have slightly serrated margins towards the apex. Like all cycads, it does not produce true flowers or fruits, but strobili or cones: the male ones are slender and cylindrical, while the female ones are more robust and ovoid, with a velvety brown color. Upon maturity, the female cone releases fleshy seeds with a vibrant red or orange cover (sarcotesta). It is an architecturally elegant plant that inhabits the shady tropical understory.
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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).Cycadophyta
ClassRank below Phylum. Subdivides by structural traits (e.g., Mammalia, Aves, Reptilia, Insecta).Cycadopsida
OrderRank below Class. Groups related families sharing common ancestry (e.g., Carnivora, Primates).Cycadales
FamilyRank below Order. Groups closely related genera (e.g., Felidae = cats, Canidae = dogs).Zamiaceae
GenusRank just above Species. The first word in the two-part binomial scientific name.Zamia
Taxonomic AuthorityThe scientist who first formally described and published this species, followed by the year of publication.D.W.Stev., 1993
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.
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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.
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
It is found in the understory of tropical wet lowland forests, often on limestone substrates or well-drained alluvial soils. It prefers deep shade environments where humidity is constant. It is a species native to the Central American Caribbean, with significant populations in Costa Rica and Panama, frequently associated with conserved primary forests.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
Zamia neurophyllidia exhibits a fascinating reproductive ecology based on insect pollination (entomophily), specifically small beetles (weevils). These beetles are attracted by chemical signals and heat produced by the male cones (thermogenesis). While feeding and mating there, they get covered in pollen and transport it to the female cones. The fleshy seeds are mainly dispersed by birds and small mammals attracted by the red sarcotesta.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)
30.0 - 150.0 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
Coralloid Roots: It develops specialized roots near the soil surface that house symbiotic cyanobacteria (Nostoc or Anabaena). These bacteria fix atmospheric nitrogen, allowing the Zamia to thrive in tropical forest soils where nutrients are often limited.
Chemical Defense (Azoxyglycosides): As a survival mechanism, it contains toxic compounds such as cycasin and BMAA in all its tissues. This potent chemical defense protects it from most mammalian herbivores, although some insect species have evolved to tolerate and sequester these toxins.
Main ThreatsDocumented pressures reducing the population: habitat loss, hunting, disease, climate change, and invasive species. Multi-lang
Habitat loss and fragmentation: Due to its extremely slow growth and dependence on specific microclimates in the primary understory, deforestation and the conversion of forests into pastures severely impact its regeneration capacity.
Interesting FactsSurprising or notable facts that highlight what makes this species unique or ecologically important. Multi-lang
Coevolution with butterflies: The caterpillar of the butterfly Eumaeus godartii feeds on Zamia leaves, sequestering the plant's toxins (cycasin) to become toxic to its own predators. The butterfly's bright colors warn of this stolen toxicity.