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
Carapa guianensis
Crabwood / Andiroba
Aubl., 1775
Detailed Texts Multi-lang
The crabwood or andiroba (Carapa guianensis) is an imposing tree of the Meliaceae family, a close relative of mahogany, valued both for its high-quality timber and the medicinal properties of its seeds. It is a canopy giant that commonly reaches heights of 35 to 45 meters (115-148 feet), with a straight, cylindrical, and robust trunk that can exceed one meter in diameter. Its bark is smooth to slightly fissured, grayish or brown, and tends to peel off in large, thin flakes. One of its most distinctive visual features is its large, pinnate leaves, which cluster at the ends of the branches, giving it a dense and vigorous appearance. The flowers are small, cream or whitish in color, and give off a mild fragrance. The fruit is a woody, globose, dark brown capsule containing 10 to 16 seeds rich in a bitter oil of high therapeutic and industrial value. It is widely distributed from the Caribbean and Central America to the Amazon basin, being an emblematic species of humid forests and floodplains.
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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).Sapindales
FamilyRank below Order. Groups closely related genera (e.g., Felidae = cats, Canidae = dogs).Meliaceae
GenusRank just above Species. The first word in the two-part binomial scientific name.Carapa
Taxonomic AuthorityThe scientist who first formally described and published this species, followed by the year of publication.Aubl., 1775
Record Completeness
82%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.
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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 thrives mainly in humid and very humid tropical forests, showing a notable preference for alluvial soils and areas near rivers that flood seasonally (várzea forests). Although it adapts well to well-drained upland soils (terra firme), it reaches its maximum density in heavy clay soils rich in organic matter in the Caribbean and the lowlands of the Southern Pacific. In Costa Rica, it is commonly found in the Northern Zone and the floodplains of Tortuguero and the Osa Peninsula.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
Carapa guianensis plays a critical role in hydrochory (seed dispersal by water). Its fruits often fall into rivers or flooded areas, where the capsules float and are transported by the current over long distances. Once the capsule degrades or hits the shore, it releases the seeds, which can remain viable in the water for weeks. This strategy allows for the efficient colonization of sandbars and newly formed floodplains.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 - 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
Root hypoxia tolerance: As a frequent species in floodplains, the crabwood has developed physiological adaptations that allow it to survive in water-saturated soils where oxygen is scarce. Its roots can maintain active metabolic processes under seasonal immersion, giving it a competitive advantage in riparian forests where other hardwood species fail to thrive.
Limonoid Production (Chemical Defense): The seeds and bark are loaded with andirobin and other bitter limonoids. This sophisticated chemical armor protects the tree and its propagules against attacks from boring insects and pathogenic fungi, especially in humid environments where pest pressure is extreme. This same mechanism provides andiroba oil with its potent repellent and medicinal properties.
Main ThreatsDocumented pressures reducing the population: habitat loss, hunting, disease, climate change, and invasive species. Multi-lang
Selective and illegal logging: Because its wood is similar to true mahogany (Swietenia macrophylla) but more abundant, it has suffered heavy commercial pressure. It is widely used for carpentry, fine furniture, and construction. The extraction of the largest and healthiest individuals reduces the genetic diversity of wild populations.
Interesting FactsSurprising or notable facts that highlight what makes this species unique or ecologically important. Multi-lang
The Forest Pharmacy: The oil extracted from its seeds is one of the most versatile natural products in the Neotropics. It is used as an insect repellent, an anti-inflammatory for bruises and arthritis, and to treat skin conditions. In many rural communities, it is the primary remedy for combating parasitic insects.