Black Sweetwood
Ocotea foeniculacea
Overview
Black Sweetwood (Ocotea foeniculacea) is a medium-sized evergreen tree in the laurel family, characterized by its dark, aromatic bark and glossy, lance-shaped leaves that emit a distinctive fennel-like fragrance when crushed. This tropical tree plays a crucial ecological role as a food source for various bird species through its small, dark berries, while also providing nesting sites and contributing to forest canopy structure.
Black Sweetwood faces significant threats from habitat loss due to deforestation and agricultural expansion throughout its range in the Caribbean and Central America. The species' limited distribution and specialized habitat requirements make it particularly vulnerable to ongoing forest fragmentation and conversion of lowland forests for development and agriculture.
Habitat
Black Sweetwood occurs in tropical moist lowland forests, secondary forests, and woodland areas primarily in the Caribbean islands and parts of Central America. The species typically grows in well-drained soils in both primary and disturbed forest habitats at low to moderate elevations.
Other threatened species in Lauraceae
Frequently asked questions
Why is Black Sweetwood classified as Vulnerable?
Where does Black Sweetwood live?
What are the main threats to Black Sweetwood?
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