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
Cocos nucifera
Coconut Palm
L., 1753
Detailed Texts Multi-lang
Cocos nucifera is one of the most iconic and economically important palms in the world, known as the 'tree of life' for its countless uses. It is a large, solitary palm that can reach heights of 20 to 30 meters (65-100 feet), with a trunk (stipe) that is either leaning or straight, marked by ring scars from fallen leaves. Its crown is composed of elegant, arched pinnate fronds that can measure up to 6 meters in length. The most notable feature is its fruit: the coconut, a fibrous drupe with a smooth outer skin, a fibrous middle layer (husk), and a hard inner nut containing a seed with a layer of solid endosperm (flesh) and liquid (coconut water). Its flowers are small and yellowish, grouped in inflorescences protected by a woody spathe. It is a halophytic species, perfectly adapted to life on sandy shorelines, where it defines the classic silhouette of tropical beaches.
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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).Tracheophyta
ClassRank below Phylum. Subdivides by structural traits (e.g., Mammalia, Aves, Reptilia, Insecta).Liliopsida
OrderRank below Class. Groups related families sharing common ancestry (e.g., Carnivora, Primates).Arecales
FamilyRank below Order. Groups closely related genera (e.g., Felidae = cats, Canidae = dogs).Arecaceae
GenusRank just above Species. The first word in the two-part binomial scientific name.Cocos
Taxonomic AuthorityThe scientist who first formally described and published this species, followed by the year of publication.L., 1753
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 a fundamentally coastal species that thrives on sandy beaches and littoral terrains throughout the tropical belt. It prefers deep, well-drained sandy soils, although it tolerates high salinity and constant salt-laden winds. It requires high solar radiation and regular rainfall, although it can withstand dry periods if groundwater is available. In Costa Rica, it is an omnipresent component on both coasts, from sea level to low elevations inland.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 structural species that stabilizes shorelines against marine erosion. Its dense and branched root system helps retain beach sand. Its flowers are an important source of nectar for bees and bats, while its fallen fruits provide food for land crabs and small coastal mammals.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)
1500.0 - 3000.0 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
Hydrochory and Fruit Buoyancy: The coconut fruit has a light, air-filled fibrous mesocarp that allows it to float in seawater for months. This adaptation enables it to travel thousands of miles through ocean currents and successfully germinate upon reaching a remote beach, ensuring global dispersal.
Salinity Tolerance (Halophytism): It has developed physiological mechanisms to filter salt from water and air, allowing it to grow in the surf zone of beaches where most vascular plants would die from osmotic stress.
Main ThreatsDocumented pressures reducing the population: habitat loss, hunting, disease, climate change, and invasive species. Multi-lang
Lethal Yellowing: One of the most serious threats is a phytoplasma transmitted by insects that causes rapid wilting and death of the palm. In Costa Rica, this disease has decimated historical populations in the Caribbean.
Interesting FactsSurprising or notable facts that highlight what makes this species unique or ecologically important. Multi-lang
The Tree of a Thousand Uses: From the coconut palm, water, coconut milk, oil, fiber for ropes and mats (coir), wood for construction, and leaves for thatching are extracted, being a fundamental pillar for human survival on islands and coasts.