What is the scientific name of the plant commonly known as Birdsville indigo?

The scientific name of the plant commonly known as Birdsville indigo is *Indigofera tsiangiana*. This designation follows the standard scientific naming convention established in taxonomy.

What are the common names associated with *Indigofera tsiangiana*?

The common names associated with *Indigofera tsiangiana* are Birdsville indigo and nine-leaved indigo. These names help in identifying the plant in local contexts.

To which plant family does *Indigofera tsiangiana* belong?

*Indigofera tsiangiana* belongs to the family Fabaceae. The Fabaceae family is commonly known as the legume, pea, or bean family, recognized for its diverse members.

What is the genus of *Indigofera tsiangiana*?

The genus of *Indigofera tsiangiana* is *Indigofera*. This genus contains numerous species, many of which are known for producing indigo dye or having other significant properties.

What is the taxonomic classification of *Indigofera tsiangiana* from kingdom down to genus?

According to the provided classification, *Indigofera tsiangiana* is in the Kingdom Plantae, within the clades Tracheophytes, Angiosperms, Eudicots, and Rosids. It falls under the Order Fabales, Family Fabaceae, Subfamily Faboideae, and Genus *Indigofera*.

Who is credited with the binomial name for *Indigofera tsiangiana*?

The binomial name *Indigofera tsiangiana* is credited to Metcalf. This designation follows the standard scientific naming convention established in taxonomy.

What are some of the recognized synonyms for *Indigofera tsiangiana*?

*Indigofera tsiangiana* is recognized by several synonyms, including *Anil prostrata*, *Hedysarum prostratum*, *Indigofera caespitosa*, *Indigofera debilis*, *Indigofera dominii*, *Indigofera linnaei*, *Indigofera paludosa*, *Indigofera prostrata*, *Indigofera pusilla*, and *Indigofera tenella*. The synonym *Indigofera linnaei* is particularly noted in the text.

What is depicted in the primary image of the article, and what is its taxonomic relevance?

The primary image displayed in the article is identified by the filename `Indigofera_linnaei_Ali_(6256597365).jpg`. Given that the text states *Indigofera tsiangiana* is a synonym for *Indigofera linnaei*, this image likely serves as a visual representation of the species being discussed.

What information is conveyed by the distribution map image included in the source?

The distribution map image, titled `Indigofera_linnaeiDistMap37.png`, provides data on the occurrence of the species within Australia, as sourced from the Australasian Virtual Herbarium. This visual aid helps illustrate the geographical spread of the plant on the continent.

Describe the overall growth habit and size of *Indigofera tsiangiana*.

*Indigofera tsiangiana* is characterized as a spreading, typically prostrate woody herb, reaching heights of 15 to 50 cm. It possesses a substantial taproot and often forms a flat mat that can extend up to 1.5 meters in diameter. This growth habit allows the plant to spread horizontally and cover the ground effectively.

What type of plant is *Indigofera tsiangiana* described as in terms of its structure?

*Indigofera tsiangiana* is described as a woody herb. This describes a plant with stems that become somewhat woody over time, distinguishing it from purely herbaceous plants.

What are the characteristics of the leaflets in *Indigofera tsiangiana*?

The leaflets of *Indigofera tsiangiana* are generally arranged 7 or 9 per compound leaf and are obovate-cuneate in shape. They measure approximately 8–13 mm in length and 2–5 mm in width, featuring a mucronate apex, which is a small, sharp point. These leaflets are described as sericeous on both sides, meaning they are covered in fine, silky hairs.

What are the specific characteristics of the stipules of *Indigofera tsiangiana*?

The stipules of *Indigofera tsiangiana* are lanceolate (shaped like a lance-head), approximately 3 mm long, and are described as lateral, free, and sericeous (covered in silky hairs). Stipules are small, leaf-like appendages typically found at the base of the leaf stalk.

What are the features of the flowers of *Indigofera tsiangiana*?

The flowers of *Indigofera tsiangiana* are sessile, meaning they lack a stalk, and are about 5 mm long. They have red petals. The calyx is campanulate (bell-shaped), measuring 3–5 mm long and covered in villous (hairy) tissue, with narrow, acuminate teeth that are longer than the tube. The standard petal is obovate-spathulate and slightly longer than the calyx, while the wings and keel petals are shorter.

How do the different parts of the flower petals of *Indigofera tsiangiana* relate in size?

In the flowers of *Indigofera tsiangiana*, the standard petal slightly exceeds the length of the calyx. The wings and keel petals are shorter than the standard petal. These pointed structures form part of the protective outer layer of the flower bud.

What is the appearance of the fruit and seeds of *Indigofera tsiangiana*?

The fruit of *Indigofera tsiangiana* is an oblong pod that appears silky. It measures about 3–7 mm in length, is pointed at the apex, and typically contains two seeds.

How are the branches of *Indigofera tsiangiana* described?

The branches of *Indigofera tsiangiana* are covered with appressed white hairs. These hairs lie flat against the surface, giving the branches a specific texture.

In which countries outside of Australia is *Indigofera tsiangiana* found?

*Indigofera tsiangiana* is found in Sudan and throughout much of tropical Asia. This extensive distribution across numerous countries and islands highlights the plant's adaptability.

In which Australian states and territories is *Indigofera tsiangiana* found?

In Australia, *Indigofera tsiangiana* is found in Queensland, Western Australia, the Northern Territory, New South Wales, and South Australia. This presence across multiple Australian states and territories indicates its widespread establishment on the continent.

What are the typical habitats for *Indigofera tsiangiana* in the Northern Territory of Australia?

In the Northern Territory, *Indigofera tsiangiana* is considered a weedy species and is frequently observed in areas that have been disturbed or overgrazed. It can grow in a variety of soil types, from skeletal soils and red sands to cracking clays.

What types of habitats does *Indigofera tsiangiana* occupy in Western Australia?

In Western Australia, *Indigofera tsiangiana* is found in diverse habitats, including sandy soils, on sandstone and limestone ridges, along riverbanks and creeks, and on rocky hillsides. Its presence in these varied environments suggests adaptability.

When does *Indigofera tsiangiana* typically flower and fruit in the Northern Territory?

In the Northern Territory, *Indigofera tsiangiana* flowers and fruits throughout the entire year. This year-round reproductive capability can contribute to its widespread presence.

During which months does *Indigofera tsiangiana* flower in Western Australia?

In Western Australia, *Indigofera tsiangiana* flowers from January to May. This seasonal flowering pattern is specific to the environmental conditions in Western Australia.

What is the conservation status of *Indigofera tsiangiana* in Western Australia?

In Western Australia, *Indigofera tsiangiana* is not considered a species of conservation concern according to the Declared Rare and Priority Flora List. This indicates that the species is not currently facing threats requiring special conservation status in that state.

What is the connection between *Indigofera tsiangiana* and "Birdsville disease" in horses?

*Indigofera tsiangiana* is recognized as the plant responsible for "Birdsville disease," a condition affecting horses in arid and semi-arid regions of Australia. It took considerable time for this association to be established. This condition is a notable example of plant toxicity affecting livestock in Australia.

What substances were initially suspected to be the cause of toxicity in *Indigofera tsiangiana*?

Initially, the toxic substances suspected to be responsible for the adverse effects of *Indigofera tsiangiana* were indospicene or possibly canavanine. These were proposed before current research identified other key toxins.

What does current research indicate are the primary toxins responsible for Birdsville disease in horses?

Current research indicates that the neurotoxic effects on horses experiencing Birdsville disease are due to the neurotoxin 3-nitropropionic acid (3-NPA). The neurotoxic effect on horses generally occurs just after the rains, because *I. tsiangiana* responds more quickly to moisture than other species.

How does the toxicity of indospicene compare between horses and cattle?

Horses appear to be less susceptible than cattle to the hepatotoxic (liver-damaging) effects of indospicene. This difference in susceptibility highlights varying physiological responses to the plant's toxins among different animal species.

How can dogs be affected by the toxicity of *Indigofera tsiangiana*?

Dogs can suffer secondary poisoning from *Indigofera tsiangiana* toxicity if they consume meat from livestock, such as horses or camels, that have ingested the plant. This occurs because the toxin, indospicine, accumulates in the tissues of these animals, and dogs are highly sensitive to it. This demonstrates how toxins can move through the food chain, affecting organisms that consume contaminated prey.

What are the effects of indospicine accumulation in livestock tissues?

Indospicine, a toxin found in *Indigofera tsiangiana*, accumulates in the tissues of grazing livestock after ingestion. This accumulation causes liver degeneration and abortion across animal species, although the degree of these effects varies considerably between species. Experimentally, chronic exposure has been shown to induce both hepatotoxicity and embryo-lethal effects in cattle and sheep.

What is the purpose of the "Taxon identifiers" section at the end of the article?

The "Taxon identifiers" section provides a list of unique codes and links to various databases and resources that catalog biological information. These identifiers, such as Wikidata, GBIF, IPNI, and POWO, allow for precise cross-referencing of information about the species across various scientific databases.

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About the Plant

Botanical Identity

Indigofera tsiangiana, also known by its synonym Indigofera linnaei, is a species of leguminous shrub belonging to the family Fabaceae, within the genus Indigofera. It is commonly referred to as Birdsville indigo or nine-leaved indigo.

Morphology and Characteristics

This species typically presents as a spreading, prostrate woody herb, reaching heights of 15–50 cm. It possesses a long taproot and can form a dense mat up to 1.5 meters in diameter. The compound leaves are approximately 3 cm long, usually featuring 7 or 9 obovate leaflets with a mucronate apex, measuring about 8–15 mm in length and 2–5 mm in width. The stipules are lanceolate, approximately 5 mm long, with broad, dry margins. The inflorescences are dense, up to 2 cm long, bearing red petals. The pod is oblong, silky, about 3–7 mm long, pointed at the apex, and typically contains two seeds.

Taxonomy and Synonyms

The scientific classification places Indigofera tsiangiana within the Plantae kingdom, Tracheophytes, Angiosperms, Eudicots, Rosids, order Fabales, family Fabaceae, subfamily Faboideae, and genus Indigofera. It is recognized under the binomial name Indigofera tsiangiana, attributed to Metcalf. Numerous synonyms exist, reflecting its taxonomic history and geographical variations, including:

Anil prostrata
Hedysarum prostratum
Indigofera caespitosa
Indigofera debilis
Indigofera dominii
Indigofera linnaei
Indigofera paludosa
Indigofera prostrata
Indigofera pusilla
Indigofera tenella
Onobrychis prostrata

Global Distribution

Geographic Range

Indigofera tsiangiana exhibits a broad distribution across several continents. It is found in Sudan and extends throughout much of tropical Asia, encompassing regions such as Assam, Tamil Nadu, Bangladesh, the Bismarck Archipelago, China, the Himalaya region, Hainan, India, Indonesia, Laos, the Lesser Sunda Islands, Maldives, Myanmar, Nepal, New Guinea, Pakistan, Sri Lanka, Sulawesi, Thailand, and Vietnam.

Australian Presence

Within Australia, the species is widespread, particularly in the northern part of the continent. It is documented in Queensland, Western Australia, the Northern Territory, New South Wales, and South Australia. In the Northern Territory, it is often observed in disturbed or overgrazed areas and thrives on various soil types, from skeletal soils and red sand to cracking clay. It flowers and fruits year-round in this region. In Western Australia, flowering occurs from January to May, typically found on sandy soils, sandstone and limestone ridges, along rivers and creeks, and on rocky hillsides. It is not considered a species of conservation concern in Western Australia.

Toxicological Significance

Birdsville Disease in Horses

This plant is recognized as the causal agent of "Birdsville disease," a condition affecting horses in arid and semi-arid regions of Australia. Initially, the exact cause was debated, with suspected agents including indospicine or canavanine. However, current research indicates that the neurotoxic effects on horses are primarily due to the neurotoxin 3-nitropropionic acid (3-NPA). Horses appear less susceptible to the hepatotoxic effects of indospicine compared to cattle. The neurotoxic effects often manifest shortly after rainfall, as I. tsiangiana responds rapidly to moisture.

Effects on Livestock

Indospicine, a toxin found in Indigofera species, accumulates in the tissues of grazing livestock. While the degree of toxicity varies significantly between species, it can cause liver degeneration and abortion. The consumption of indospicine-contaminated meat has even led to secondary poisoning in dogs. Livestock exposed chronically to this toxin may develop hepatotoxicity and embryo-lethal effects, as demonstrated experimentally in cattle and sheep.

Key Toxins

The primary toxins associated with Indigofera tsiangiana and related species include:

Indospicine: A hepatotoxic amino acid that can cause liver damage and reproductive issues in various animal species.
3-Nitropropionic Acid (3-NPA): A neurotoxin implicated in the neurological symptoms observed in horses affected by Birdsville disease.

Understanding these toxins is crucial for managing livestock health in regions where this plant is prevalent.

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References

The Australasian Virtual Herbarium â Occurrence data for Indigofera linnaei

GBIF: Indigofera linnaei Ali. GBIF Secretariat: GBIF Backbone Taxonomy. Retrieved 17 November 2018.

Everist, S.L. (1979) Poisonous Plants of Australia (2nd ed.) pp.447-450. Angus and Robertson Publishers, Melbourne.

NTFlora: Indigofera linnaei. Northern Territory Flora online, Northern Territory Government. Retrieved 17 November 2018

The Australasian Virtual Herbarium â Occurrence data for Indigofera linnaei. Retrieved November 18, 2018.

PubChem:Compound Summary for CID 108010 Indospicine. Retrieved 20 November 2018.

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

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Important Notice

This page was generated by an Artificial Intelligence and is intended for informational and educational purposes only. The content is based on a snapshot of publicly available data from Wikipedia and may not be entirely accurate, complete, or up-to-date.

This is not agricultural or veterinary advice. The information provided on this website regarding plant toxicity is for general knowledge only and should not be considered a substitute for professional consultation with agricultural experts, veterinarians, or toxicologists. Always consult with qualified professionals for specific concerns related to livestock health, plant identification, or potential hazards.

The creators of this page are not responsible for any errors or omissions, or for any actions taken based on the information provided herein.

Indigofera Tsiangiana: A Botanical Study

💡 Dive in with Flashcard Learning! 💡

About the Plant 🌿

📜 Botanical Identity

🧬 Morphology and Characteristics

🏷️ Taxonomy and Synonyms

Global Distribution 🌍

🗺️ Geographic Range

🇦🇺 Australian Presence

Toxicological Significance ☠️

🐎 Birdsville Disease in Horses

🐄 Effects on Livestock

🧪 Key Toxins

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Feedback & Support 👍

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📜 Important Notice

Dive in with Flashcard Learning!

About the Plant

Botanical Identity

Morphology and Characteristics

Taxonomy and Synonyms

Global Distribution

Geographic Range

Australian Presence

Toxicological Significance

Birdsville Disease in Horses

Effects on Livestock

Key Toxins

Teacher's Corner

True or False?

Test Your Knowledge!

Gamer's Corner

Discover other topics to study!

References

Feedback & Support

Disclaimer

Important Notice