PlantaeHighest rank in taxonomy. Groups all life into domains: Animalia, Plantae, Fungi, etc.IUCN NEInternational Union for Conservation of Nature — the world authority on species extinction risk, using standardized criteria. — Not Evaluated — not yet assessed against the IUCN Red List criteria.In ProgressCurrent stage of this record in the editorial review workflow. Recent Sighting
Bactris guineensis
Bactris Palm
(L.) H.E.Moore
Detailed Texts Multi-lang
A small, multi-stemmed, clustering palm tree growing up to 3 to 5 meters high, forming dense thickets. Its slender stems are heavily armed with long, flat, black spines. It produces pinnate leaves and small, round, purple-black fruits that grow in hanging clusters.
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).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.Bactris
Taxonomic AuthorityThe scientist who first formally described and published this species, followed by the year of publication.(L.) H.E.Moore
Record Completeness
85%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.
Herbivore
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
Mainly found in coastal regions, dry tropical forests, and disturbed areas of Central America and northern South America. It thrives in sandy soils, near beaches, savannas, and lowlands subject to seasonal droughts or temporary flooding.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
This palm spreads aggressively via underground rhizomes, frequently forming impenetrable, protective dense thickets that stabilize dunes. It blooms monoeciously, producing separate male and female flowers clustered closely on the same inflorescence.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)
150.0 - 500.0 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
Equipped with a dense covering of sharp, flat spines along the trunk and leaves, which acts as a highly effective physical defense against large herbivores and seed predators.
Possesses a robust, clustering rhizomatous root system that allows the plant to quickly sprout new stems, survive wildfires, and anchor firmly in shifting coastal sands.
Main ThreatsDocumented pressures reducing the population: habitat loss, hunting, disease, climate change, and invasive species. Multi-lang
Land clearing for coastal urban development, tourism infrastructure, and the expansion of agricultural pastures.
Intentional eradication by ranchers and locals because the aggressive, sharp spines present a hazard to livestock and humans attempting to clear paths.
Interesting FactsSurprising or notable facts that highlight what makes this species unique or ecologically important. Multi-lang
The tart, acidic fruits are used traditionally in Central America to brew a popular, refreshing purple beverage called 'chicha de viscoyol', and can also be fermented into wine.