What is the genus Araucaria, and what family does it belong to?

The genus Araucaria comprises evergreen coniferous trees belonging to the family Araucariaceae. These trees are characterized by their distinctive symmetrical growth habit and are known for their leathery or needle-like leaves.

How has the geographical distribution of Araucaria species changed over time?

Historically, during the Jurassic and Cretaceous periods, Araucaria species were distributed globally. However, today they are primarily found in the Southern Hemisphere, with populations often considered relictual and having restricted distributions.

Where are the extant species of Araucaria currently found?

The 20 extant species of Araucaria are predominantly located in the Southern Hemisphere. Key areas include New Caledonia, where 14 species are endemic, eastern Australia (including Norfolk Island), New Guinea, Argentina, Brazil, Chile, and Uruguay.

What are the typical physical characteristics of Araucaria trees?

Araucaria trees are typically large, with massive erect stems that can reach heights ranging from 5 to 80 meters (16 to 262 feet). They feature horizontal, spreading branches arranged in whorls, and their leaves are either leathery or needle-like, varying in shape from narrow and awl-shaped to broad and flat depending on the species.

Are Araucaria trees typically monoecious or dioecious?

Most Araucaria species are dioecious, meaning that male and female cones are found on separate individual trees. However, occasional individuals may exhibit monoecious characteristics (having both male and female cones on the same tree) or even change their sex over time.

Describe the cones produced by Araucaria trees.

Araucaria trees produce both male and female cones. The female cones are typically globose, measuring between 7 to 25 centimeters (3 to 10 inches) in diameter, and contain 80 to 200 large, edible seeds. The male cones are smaller, ranging from 4 to 10 cm (1.5 to 4 inches) in length and 1.5 to 5 cm (0.5 to 2 inches) in width, and are cylindrical in shape.

What is the significance of the name 'Araucaria' to the Mapuche people?

The Mapuche people, indigenous to the region where *Araucaria araucana* grows, consider the tree sacred. They refer to it as 'pewen,' and some groups identify themselves as 'Pehuenche,' meaning 'people of the pewen,' due to their traditional reliance on its seeds for food.

How are the extant species of Araucaria classified within the genus?

The extant species of Araucaria are classified into four recognized sections: *Araucaria*, *Bunya*, *Intermedia*, and *Eutacta*. Additionally, there are two extinct sections, *Yezonia* and *Perpendicula*, and several species are classified as *incertae sedis* (of uncertain placement).

What are the key characteristics distinguishing the Section Araucaria?

Species within Section *Araucaria*, as defined by Wilde and Eames in 1952, are characterized by broad leaves, cones exceeding 12 cm (4.7 inches) in diameter, and hypogeal germination, where the cotyledons remain below ground after the seed sprouts.

Which Araucaria species are found in South America, and what are their common names?

Two prominent Araucaria species are found in South America: *Araucaria angustifolia*, known as the Paraná pine, distributed in southern and southeastern Brazil and northeastern Argentina; and *Araucaria araucana*, commonly called the monkey-puzzle or pehuén, found in central Chile and western Argentina.

What defines the Section Bunya, and which species belongs to it?

Section *Bunya*, established by Wilde and Eames in 1952, currently contains only one living species, *Araucaria bidwillii*, commonly known as the bunya-bunya. This section is noted for producing recalcitrant seeds, which are seeds that do not tolerate drying and are typically dispersed with their viability intact, and exhibits hypogeal germination.

What are the defining features of the Section Eutacta?

Section *Eutacta*, classified by Endlicher in 1847, is characterized by species with narrow, awl-like leaves and cones that are less than 12 cm (4.7 inches) in diameter. A key difference from Section *Araucaria* is its epigeal germination, where the cotyledons emerge above ground.

Which Araucaria species are native to New Caledonia, and how many are endemic?

New Caledonia is a significant center of diversity for the genus Araucaria, hosting numerous species. Out of the 14 species endemic to the island, many belong to the Section *Eutacta*, including *A. bernieri*, *A. biramulata*, *A. columnaris*, *A. goroensis*, *A. humboldtensis*, *A. laubenfelsii*, *A. luxurians*, *A. montana*, *A. muelleri*, *A. nemorosa*, *A. rulei*, *A. schmidii*, *A. scopulorum*, and *A. subulata*.

What is the common name for *Araucaria heterophylla*, and where is it found?

*Araucaria heterophylla* is commonly known as the Norfolk Island pine. It is native to Norfolk Island, an external territory of Australia located in the Pacific Ocean.

What is the common name for *Araucaria cunninghamii*, and where is it distributed?

*Araucaria cunninghamii* is known by the common names Moreton Bay pine and hoop pine. This species is distributed across eastern Australia and New Guinea.

What do genetic studies reveal about the relationships between Araucaria sections?

Genetic studies indicate that the extant members of the genus Araucaria can be divided into two major clades. The first clade includes the sections *Araucaria*, *Bunya*, and *Intermedia*, while the second, strongly monophyletic clade consists solely of the section *Eutacta*. The sections *Eutacta* and *Bunya* are considered the oldest lineages within the genus.

What is the paleoecological significance of Araucaria fossils?

Fossil records show that Araucaria species were present as early as the Middle Jurassic period, with species like *Araucaria mirabilis* found in Patagonia and *Araucaria sphaerocarpa* in England. The genus formerly occurred in the Northern Hemisphere until the end of the Cretaceous period.

How does the unique geology of New Caledonia influence its endemic Araucaria species?

Much of New Caledonia is characterized by ultramafic rock formations with serpentine soils, which are low in nutrients but rich in metals like nickel. The endemic Araucaria species found there have adapted to these specific conditions, although this also makes them vulnerable to habitat destruction from nickel mining activities.

Is there a hypothesis connecting Araucaria foliage to the diet of sauropod dinosaurs?

Yes, there is a hypothesis suggesting that the long necks of sauropod dinosaurs may have evolved to reach the foliage of tall trees, including Araucaria. Analyses indicate that Araucaria leaves possess high energy content and are slow to ferment, making them a potentially attractive food source for these large herbivores.

In what ways are Araucaria species utilized by humans?

Several Araucaria species are cultivated for their distinctive, symmetrical appearance. Economically, many species are important sources of timber. Additionally, the large seeds of certain species, often referred to as 'Araucaria nuts,' are a traditional food source for indigenous communities in South America and Australia.

What are the edible seeds of certain Araucaria species commonly called, and what are their local names?

The edible seeds of species like *A. araucana*, *A. angustifolia*, and *A. bidwillii* are often called 'Araucaria nuts.' In Spanish-speaking South America, they are known as 'piñas' or 'piñones,' while in Portuguese, they are called 'pinhões,' similar to the European pine nut.

What pharmacological activities have been reported for plants in the genus Araucaria?

Research has indicated that plants within the genus Araucaria exhibit various pharmacological activities. These include anti-ulcer, antiviral, neuro-protective, anti-depressant, and anti-coagulant properties.

Which extinct Araucaria species were found in Japan and New Zealand?

Extinct species found in Japan include *Araucaria nipponensis* (Upper Cretaceous) and *Araucaria vulgaris* (Late Cretaceous). New Zealand has fossil records of *Araucaria haastii* (Cretaceous) and *Araucaria taieriensis* (Late Cretaceous).

What is the significance of the 'bunya-bunya' nut?

The 'bunya-bunya' nut comes from *Araucaria bidwillii*, a species belonging to Section *Bunya*. These nuts are edible and have been a traditional food source, particularly for Indigenous Australians in eastern Australia, where the tree is native.

How do the germination patterns differ between Section Araucaria and Section Eutacta?

Species in Section *Araucaria*, such as *A. angustifolia* and *A. araucana*, exhibit hypogeal germination, meaning the cotyledons remain below ground. In contrast, species within Section *Eutacta*, like *A. cunninghamii*, typically display epigeal germination, where the cotyledons emerge above the soil surface.

What is the common name for *Araucaria columnaris* and where is it found?

*Araucaria columnaris* is commonly known as the Cook pine. This species is native to New Caledonia.

What are the oldest known species or groups within the Araucaria genus, according to genetic studies?

Genetic studies suggest that the sections *Eutacta* and *Bunya* represent the oldest lineages within the Araucaria genus, with *Eutacta* possibly being the most ancient.

What is the common name for *Araucaria hunsteinii*?

*Araucaria hunsteinii* is known by the common name 'klinki.' This species is found in New Guinea.

Which Araucaria species are known for their recalcitrant seeds?

Species in Section *Bunya*, such as *Araucaria bidwillii*, and species in Section *Intermedia*, like *Araucaria hunsteinii*, are known to produce recalcitrant seeds. These seeds do not tolerate drying and require specific conditions to maintain viability.

What fossil Araucaria species is found in Patagonia and dates back to the Jurassic Period?

The fossil species *Araucaria mirabilis*, found in Patagonia, Argentina, dates back to the Middle Jurassic Period, approximately 157 million years ago. A petrified cone of this species is noted for its preservation.

What are the primary differences in leaf and cone size between Section Araucaria and Section Eutacta?

Species in Section *Araucaria* generally have broad leaves and cones larger than 12 cm (4.7 inches) in diameter. Conversely, species in Section *Eutacta* are characterized by narrow, awl-like leaves and cones smaller than 12 cm (4.7 inches) in diameter.

What is the distribution of *Araucaria angustifolia*?

*Araucaria angustifolia*, also known as the Paraná pine, is found in southern and southeastern Brazil, as well as northeastern Argentina.

What is the common name for *Araucaria bidwillii*?

The common name for *Araucaria bidwillii* is the bunya-bunya.

Which Araucaria species are found in Australia, and what are their common names?

Species found in Australia include *Araucaria bidwillii* (bunya-bunya) in eastern Australia, *Araucaria cunninghamii* (Moreton Bay pine, hoop pine) in eastern Australia, and *Araucaria heterophylla* (Norfolk Island pine) on Norfolk Island.

What extinct Araucaria species have been found in Antarctica?

Fossil evidence from Antarctica includes *Araucaria fibrosa* from the López de Bertodano Formation (Late Cretaceous) and *Araucaria marensii* from the La Meseta Formation (Paleogene).

What is the typical habitat and preferred site conditions for Araucaria species?

Araucaria species are typically found in forest and maquis shrubland environments. They generally show an affinity for exposed sites.

What is the relationship between Araucaria species and nickel mining in New Caledonia?

Many endemic Araucaria species in New Caledonia are threatened or endangered because their habitats are located in areas rich in nickel deposits, making them prime targets for nickel mining operations. These species have adapted to the unique serpentine soils found in the region.

What does the term 'relict' imply about current Araucaria populations?

The term 'relict' suggests that current populations of Araucaria are remnants of a much wider historical distribution. Their present-day restricted ranges indicate a decline from their former widespread presence.

What is the taxonomic classification of the genus Araucaria?

Araucaria is classified under the Kingdom Plantae, Division Pinophyta (conifers), Class Pinopsida, Order Araucariales, and Family Araucariaceae.

What is the temporal range of the genus Araucaria?

The genus Araucaria has a temporal range extending from the Middle Jurassic period to the present day, indicating its ancient lineage and long evolutionary history.

What is the common name for *Araucaria* in general, if any?

There is no single, distinct vernacular name commonly used for the genus *Araucaria* as a whole. Individual species have their own common names, such as monkey-puzzle tree or Paraná pine.

How are Araucaria trees related to true pines?

Although often called 'pine' trees, Araucaria species are only distantly related to true pines, which belong to the genus *Pinus*. They are part of a different botanical family, Araucariaceae.

What is the approximate number of extant species in the genus Araucaria?

There are approximately 20 extant species within the genus Araucaria.

What is the significance of the 'monkey-puzzle' tree within the Araucaria genus?

The monkey-puzzle tree, scientifically known as *Araucaria araucana*, is a well-known species within the genus and is often the species people are familiar with when thinking of Araucaria.

What type of leaves do Araucaria trees have?

Araucaria trees possess leaves that are either leathery or needle-like. The specific shape can vary, with some species having narrow, awl-shaped, and lanceolate leaves that overlap slightly, while others have broad, flat leaves that overlap broadly.

What is the typical location of female cones on Araucaria trees?

The female cones of Araucaria trees are usually found high up on the tree, often at the very top.

What is the approximate size range of Araucaria female cones?

The female cones of Araucaria species vary in size but generally range from 7 to 25 centimeters (3 to 10 inches) in diameter.

What is the nature of the seeds produced by Araucaria female cones?

The female cones contain numerous large seeds that are edible. These seeds are often compared to pine nuts but are typically larger.

What is the approximate size range of Araucaria male cones?

Male cones of Araucaria species are generally 4 to 10 cm (1.5 to 4 inches) long and 1.5 to 5 cm (0.5 to 2 inches) broad, varying from narrow to broad cylindrical shapes.

What does the term 'recalcitrant seeds' mean in the context of Araucaria species?

Recalcitrant seeds are seeds that cannot tolerate drying out and typically remain viable for only a short period if they dry. Species like *Araucaria bidwillii* and *Araucaria hunsteinii* produce such seeds.

Araucaria Wiki: Araucaria: Ancient Giants of the Plant Kingdom

Dive in with Flashcard Learning!

When you are ready...
🎮 Play the Wiki2Web Clarity Challenge Game🎮

Genus Overview

Botanical Identity

Araucaria represents a genus of evergreen coniferous trees belonging to the family Araucariaceae. While currently concentrated in the Southern Hemisphere, these ancient trees were globally distributed during the Jurassic and Cretaceous periods, showcasing remarkable evolutionary resilience.

Geographic Distribution

Today, Araucaria species are found across diverse regions including New Caledonia (where many are endemic), eastern Australia, New Guinea, Argentina, Brazil, Chile, and Uruguay. Their historical range extended much further, indicating significant past diversification and subsequent contraction.

Morphological Characteristics

These trees are typically characterized by massive, erect stems reaching heights of 5 to 80 meters. Their branches spread horizontally in whorls, adorned with leathery or needle-like leaves. Most species are dioecious, bearing male and female cones on separate individuals, with large, edible seeds often resembling pine nuts.

Taxonomic Classification

Naming and Lineage

The genus name, Araucaria, originates from the Spanish exonym "Araucano," referring to the Mapuche people of south-central Chile and southwestern Argentina, whose territory includes significant stands of A. araucana. This species is considered sacred by the Mapuche, who call it pewen.

Major Sections

The genus is formally organized into four extant sections: Araucaria, Bunya, Intermedia, and Eutacta. Genetic studies suggest these can be grouped into two primary clades, with Eutacta and Bunya representing the oldest lineages within the genus.

Phylogenetic analyses reveal distinct evolutionary pathways:

Clade 1: Encompasses sections Araucaria, Bunya, and Intermedia.
Clade 2: Primarily comprises the monophyletic section Eutacta.

The section Eutacta is particularly diverse, especially in New Caledonia, suggesting a recent adaptive radiation event driven by specific environmental pressures.

Extant Species

Diversity by Region

The genus comprises approximately 20 extant species, with a significant concentration in New Caledonia. Other key areas of distribution include eastern Australia, New Guinea, Chile, and Argentina. Many species are endemic to specific islands or regions, highlighting their unique evolutionary trajectories.

Key Species and Habitats

Notable species include the iconic Araucaria araucana (Monkey Puzzle Tree) of Chile and Argentina, Araucaria bidwillii (Bunya Bunya) from eastern Australia, and Araucaria hunsteinii (Klinki Pine) from New Guinea. The New Caledonian species, predominantly within section Eutacta, are adapted to challenging ultramafic soils, often rich in nickel.

A summary of some prominent extant species:

Section	Species	Distribution
Araucaria	A. angustifolia (Paraná Pine)	Southern/Southeastern Brazil, Northeastern Argentina
Araucaria	A. araucana (Monkey Puzzle)	Central Chile, Western Argentina
Bunya	A. bidwillii (Bunya Bunya)	Eastern Australia
Intermedia	A. hunsteinii (Klinki Pine)	New Guinea
Eutacta	A. columnaris (Cook Pine)	New Caledonia
Eutacta	A. cunninghamii (Hoop Pine)	Eastern Australia, New Guinea
Eutacta	A. heterophylla (Norfolk Island Pine)	Norfolk Island
Eutacta	A. rulei	New Caledonia
Eutacta	A. subulata	New Caledonia

Many species, particularly those in New Caledonia, face threats due to habitat loss, primarily from nickel mining activities.

Ecological and Economic Uses

Timber and Cultivation

Several Araucaria species are significant sources of timber, valued for their wood properties. Their distinctive, formal symmetrical growth habit also makes them popular ornamental trees in cultivation, appreciated for their architectural form in landscapes and botanical gardens.

Edible Seeds

The large seeds of species such as A. araucana, A. angustifolia, and A. bidwillii are a traditional food source. Known colloquially as "Araucaria nuts" or sometimes misidentified as pine nuts, these seeds are nutritious and have been harvested extensively by indigenous communities for centuries.

Pharmacological Potential

Preliminary research indicates that extracts from the Araucaria genus possess various pharmacological activities. Reports suggest potential applications as anti-ulcer, antiviral, neuro-protective, anti-depressant, and anti-coagulant agents, warranting further investigation into their medicinal properties.

Paleoecology and Evolution

Ancient Origins

The fossil record indicates that Araucaria originated in the Middle Jurassic period, with early representatives like A. mirabilis found in Patagonia. Fossil evidence also shows their presence in the Northern Hemisphere until the end of the Cretaceous period, demonstrating a much broader ancient distribution.

Dinosaurian Diet

There is scientific speculation that the unique foliage and nutritional content of Araucaria may have played a role in the evolution of the long necks of certain sauropod dinosaurs. These ancient herbivores might have specifically adapted to browse on the high-energy, slow-fermenting leaves of these trees.

Modern Relicts

Current populations of Araucaria are often considered relictual, with restricted distributions. The exceptional diversity in New Caledonia is thought to stem from a relatively recent adaptive radiation, influenced by the region's unique geological history and serpentine soils.

Teacher's Corner

Edit and Print this course in the Wiki2Web Teacher Studio

Edit and Print Materials from this study in the wiki2web studio

Click here to open the "Araucaria" Wiki2Web Studio curriculum kit

Use the free Wiki2web Studio to generate printable flashcards, worksheets, exams, and export your materials as a web page or an interactive game.

True or False?

Test Your Knowledge!

Gamer's Corner

Are you ready for the Wiki2Web Clarity Challenge?

Learn about araucaria while playing the wiki2web Clarity Challenge game.

Unlock the mystery image and prove your knowledge by earning trophies. This simple game is addictively fun and is a great way to learn!

Play now

Explore More Topics

Discover other topics to study!

national library of the czech republic

sunlight

colchis

serfdom in russia

cuisine of philadelphia

mopsuestia

veliky novgorod

tenor

fort defiance arizona

wolfram von richthofen

References

Araucaria marensii at Fossilworks.org

The Pine Trees of Lanai

A full list of references for this article are available at the Araucaria Wikipedia page

Feedback & Support

To report an issue with this page, or to find out ways to support the mission, please click here.

Important Considerations

Disclaimer

This content has been generated by an AI model for educational purposes, drawing information from publicly available sources. While efforts have been made to ensure accuracy and comprehensiveness, the information presented may not be exhaustive or entirely up-to-date.

This is not botanical or ecological advice. For specific applications, conservation efforts, or detailed scientific understanding, please consult authoritative botanical resources, scientific literature, and relevant experts. The creators assume no liability for any errors, omissions, or actions taken based on the information provided herein.

Araucaria: Ancient Giants

💡 Dive in with Flashcard Learning! 💡

Genus Overview ℹ️

🌳 Botanical Identity

🌍 Geographic Distribution

📏 Morphological Characteristics

Taxonomic Classification 📜

🏷️ Naming and Lineage

🌳 Major Sections

Extant Species 🌿

📍 Diversity by Region

📊 Key Species and Habitats

Ecological and Economic Uses 🛠️

🪵 Timber and Cultivation

🍽️ Edible Seeds

🧪 Pharmacological Potential

Paleoecology and Evolution ⏳

🦖 Ancient Origins

🦕 Dinosaurian Diet

🌱 Modern Relicts

Teacher's Corner 🧑‍🏫

Edit and Print this course in the Wiki2Web Teacher Studio

True or False? 🤔

❓ Test Your Knowledge! ❓

Gamer's Corner 🎮

Are you ready for the Wiki2Web Clarity Challenge?

Explore More Topics

📜 Discover other topics to study!

References

📜 References

Feedback & Support 👍

To report an issue with this page, or to find out ways to support the mission, please click here.

Important Considerations ⚠️

📜 Disclaimer

Dive in with Flashcard Learning!

Genus Overview

Botanical Identity

Geographic Distribution

Morphological Characteristics

Taxonomic Classification

Naming and Lineage

Major Sections

Extant Species

Diversity by Region

Key Species and Habitats

Ecological and Economic Uses

Timber and Cultivation

Edible Seeds

Pharmacological Potential

Paleoecology and Evolution

Ancient Origins

Dinosaurian Diet

Modern Relicts

Teacher's Corner

True or False?

Test Your Knowledge!

Gamer's Corner

Discover other topics to study!

References

Feedback & Support

Important Considerations

Disclaimer