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Conservation and sustainable management of lineages providing non‐timber forest products are imperative under the current global biodiversity loss. Most non‐timber forest species, however, lack genomic studies that characterize their intraspecific variation and evolutionary history, which inform species' conservation practices. Contrary to many lineages in the Andean biodiversity hotspot that exhibit high diversification, the genus Parajubaea (Arecaceae) has only three species despite the genus' origin 22 million years ago. Two of the three palm species, P. torallyi and P. sunkha, are non‐timber forest species endemic to the Andes of Bolivia and are listed as IUCN endangered. The third species, P. cocoides, is a vulnerable species with unknown wild populations. We investigated the evolutionary relationships of Parajubaea species and the genetic diversity and structure of wild Bolivian populations. Sequencing of five low‐copy nuclear genes (3753 bp) challenged the hypothesis that P. cocoides is a cultigen that originated from the wild Bolivian species. We further obtained up to 15,134 de novo single‐nucleotide polymorphism markers by genotyping‐by‐sequencing of 194 wild Parajubaea individuals. Our total DNA sequencing effort rejected the taxonomic separation of the two Bolivian species. As expected for narrow endemic species, we observed low genetic diversity, but no inbreeding signal. We found three genetic clusters shaped by geographic distance, which we use to propose three management units. Different percentages of missing genotypic data did not impact the genetic structure of populations. We use the management units to recommend in situ conservation by creating new protected areas, and ex situ conservation through seed collection. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and aims Palm fossils are often used as evidence for warm and wet palaeoenvironments, reflecting the affinities of most modern palms. However, several extant palm lineages tolerate cool and/or arid climates, making a clear understanding of the taxonomic composition of ancient palm communities important for reliable palaeoenvironmental inference. However, taxonomically identifiable palm fossils are rare and often confined to specific facies. Although the resolution of taxonomic information they provide remains unclear, phytoliths (microscopic silica bodies) provide a possible solution because of their high preservation potential under conditions where other plant fossils are scarce. We thus evaluate the taxonomic and palaeoenvironmental utility of palm phytoliths. Methods We quantified phytolith morphology of 97 modern palm and other monocot species. Using this dataset, we tested the ability of five common discriminant methods to identify nine major palm clades. We then compiled a dataset of species' climate preferences and tested if they were correlated with phytolith morphology using a phylogenetic comparative approach. Finally, we reconstructed palm communities and palaeoenvironmental conditions at six fossil sites. Key results Best-performing models correctly identified phytoliths to their clade of origin only 59 % of the time. Although palms were generally distinguished from non-palms, few palm clades were highly distinct, and phytolith morphology was weakly correlated with species' environmental preferences. Reconstructions at all fossil sites suggested that palm communities were dominated by Trachycarpeae and Areceae, with warm, equable climates and high, potentially seasonal rainfall. However, fossil site reconstructions had high uncertainty and often conflicted with other climate proxies. Conclusions While phytolith morphology provides some distinction among palm clades, caution is warranted. Unlike prior spatially restricted studies, our geographically and phylogenetically broad study indicates phytolith morphology may not reliably differentiate most palm taxa in deep time. Nevertheless, it reveals distinct clades, including some likely to be palaeoenvironmentally informative. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Conservation Genetics is the property of Springer Nature and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Hybridization has significant evolutionary consequences across the Tree of Life. The process of hybridization has played a major role in plant evolution and has contributed to species richness and trait variation. Since morphological traits are partially a product of their environment, there may be a link between hybridization and ecology. Plant hybrid species richness is noted to be higher in harsh environments, and we explore this hypothesis with a keystone tropical plant lineage, palms (Arecaceae). Leveraging a recent literature review of naturally occurring palm hybrids, we developed a method to calculate hybrid frequency, and then tested if there is phylogenetic signal of hybrids using a phylogeny of all palms. Further, we used phylogenetic comparative methods to examine the interaction between hybrid frequency and presence in dry environments, on islands, and the species richness of genera. Phylogenetic generalized least squares models had stronger support than models of random association, indicating phylogenetic signal for the presence of hybrids in dry and island environments. However, all p‐values were >.05 and therefore the correlation was poor between hybridization and the trait frequencies examined. Presence in particular environments are not strongly correlated to hybrid frequency, but phylogenetic signal suggests a role in its distribution in different habitats. Hybridization in palms is not evenly distributed across subfamilies, tribes, subtribes yet plays an important role in palm diversity, nonetheless. Increasing our understanding hybridization in this economically and culturally important plant family is essential, particularly since rates are projected to increase with climate change, reconfiguring the dynamics and distribution of biodiversity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Seed dispersal affects gene flow and hence genetic differentiation of plant populations. During the Late Quaternary, most fruit‐eating and seed‐dispersing megafauna went extinct, but whether these animals have left signatures in the population genetics of their food plants, particularly those with large, 'megafaunal' fruits (i.e. >4 cm—megafruits), remains unclear.Here, we assessed the population history, genetic differentiation and recent migration among populations of four animal‐dispersed palm (Arecaceae) species with large (Borassus madagascariensis), medium‐sized (Hyphaene coriacea, Bismarckia nobilis) and small (Chrysalidocarpus madagascariensis) fruits on Madagascar. We integrated double‐digest restriction‐site‐associated DNA sequencing (ddRAD) of 167 individuals from 25 populations with (past) distribution ranges for extinct (e.g., giant lemurs and elephant birds) and extant seed‐dispersing animals, landscape and human impact data, and applied linear mixed‐effects models to explore the drivers of genetic variation in Malagasy palms.Palm populations that shared more megafrugivore species in the past had lower genetic differentiation than populations that shared fewer megafrugivore species. This suggests that megafrugivore‐mediated seed dispersal in the past may have led to frequent gene flow among populations. In comparison, extant frugivore diversity only decreased genetic differentiation in the small‐fruited palm. Furthermore, genetic differentiation of all palm species decreased with landscape connectivity (i.e. environmental suitability, forest cover and river density) and human impact (i.e. road density), while migration rates of the small‐fruit palm increased with road density.Synthesis. Our results suggest that the legacy of megafrugivores regularly achieving long dispersal distances is still reflected in the population genetics of palms that were formerly dispersed by such animals. Furthermore, low genetic differentiation was possibly maintained after the megafauna extinctions through alternative dispersal (e.g. human‐ or river‐mediated), long generation times and long lifespans of these megafruit palms. Our study illustrates how species interactions that happened >1000 years ago can leave imprints in their population genetics. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Attalea phalerata Martius ex Spreng is a palm tree that is widely distributed in the Central-West region of Brazil. In this study, we investigated whether the oil-loaded nanocapsules of A. phalerata (APON) have acute and long-lasting antihypertensive effects in male spontaneously hypertensive rats (SHR), as well as explored the underlying molecular mechanisms. APON was prepared using the interfacial polymer deposition method. The particle size, polydispersity index, and zeta potential were investigated using dynamic and electrophoretic light scattering. The antihypertensive effects of APON (administered at doses of 1, 3, and 10 mg/kg) were evaluated after acute intraduodenal administration and after 7 days of oral treatment. To investigate the molecular pathways involved, we used pharmacological antagonists and inhibitors that target prostaglandin/cyclic adenosine monophosphate, nitric oxide/cyclic guanosine monophosphate, and potassium channels. Both acute and prolonged administration of APON (at doses of 3 and 10 mg/kg) resulted in a significant reduction in systolic, diastolic, and mean arterial pressure. Prior treatment with a non-selective nitric oxide synthase inhibitor (Nω-nitro-L-arginine methyl ester), guanylyl cyclase inhibitor (methylene blue), or non-selective calcium-sensitive K+ channel blocker (tetraethylammonium) abolished the antihypertensive effects of APON. Our study showed that A. phalerata oil-loaded nanocapsules have a significant antihypertensive effect in SHR after both short-term and long-term (7-day) use. This effect seems to rely on the vascular endothelium function and involves the NO-cGMP-K+ channel pathway. This research suggests a new direction for future studies to definitively prove the therapeutic benefits of APON in treating cardiovascular disease. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and Aims The geographical origin and evolutionary mechanisms underpinning the rich and distinctive New Caledonian flora remain poorly understood. This is attributable to the complex geological past of the island and to the scarcity of well-resolved species-level phylogenies. Here, we infer phylogenetic relationships and divergence times of New Caledonian palms, which comprise 40 species. We use this framework to elucidate the biogeography of New Caledonian palm lineages and to explore how extant species might have formed. Methods A phylogenetic tree including 37 New Caledonian palm species and 77 relatives from tribe Areceae was inferred from 151 nuclear genes obtained by targeted sequencing. Fossil-calibrated divergence times were estimated and ancestral ranges inferred. Ancestral and extant ecological preferences in terms of elevation, precipitation and substrate were compared between New Caledonian sister species to explore their possible roles as drivers of speciation. Key Results New Caledonian palms form four well-supported clades, inside which relationships are well resolved. Our results support the current classification but suggest that Veillonia and Campecarpus should be resurrected and fail to clarify whether Rhopalostylidinae is sister to or nested in Basseliniinae. New Caledonian palm lineages are derived from New Guinean and Australian ancestors, which reached the island through at least three independent dispersal events between the Eocene and Miocene. Palms then dispersed out of New Caledonia at least five times, mainly towards Pacific islands. Geographical and ecological transitions associated with speciation events differed across time and genera. Substrate transitions were more frequently associated with older events than with younger ones. Conclusions Neighbouring areas and a mosaic of local habitats shaped the palm flora of New Caledonia, and the island played a significant role in generating palm diversity across the Pacific region. This new spatio-temporal framework will enable population-level ecological and genetic studies to unpick the mechanisms underpinning New Caledonian palm endemism. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

AbstractFour new alkaloids, arecatines A–D (1–4), were isolated from the peels of Areca catechu. Compound 1 is an unusual piperidine-pyridine hybrid alkaloid, whereas compounds 2–4 feature bis-piperidine alkaloids. Their structures were elucidated by UV, IR, HRESIMS, and NMR spectra analysis. The molecular docking analysis indicated that compound 3 exhibited the best binding affinity with the GABAA receptor, indicating its potential anti-epilepsy activity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

An anthostomella-like fungus associated with dead palm rachis (Arecaceae) was collected in Nang Lae Village, Chiang Rai Province, Thailand. It is characterised by solitary, scattered ascomata beneath a clypeus, centric ostioles, pedicellate, unitunicate asci, and dark, olivaceous-brown ascospores. Multigene phylogenetic analyses (ITS-LSU-rpb2-tub2) revealed that our isolates formed a distinct clade in Xenoanthostomella (Gyrothricaceae, Xylariales), sister to X. chromolaenae, X. cycadis, X. olivacea, and X. parvispora. Based on its distinct morphology compared with related taxa having semi-immersed ascomata, cylindrical and short pedicellate asci, oblong to narrow ellipsoid ascospores with a straight germ slit, and multigene phylogeny, a new anthostomella-like taxon is introduced as Xenoanthostomella thailandica. A comprehensive description and illustrations of the new taxon, a synopsis of morphological characteristics and illustrations of anthostomella-like genera accepted in Xylariomycetidae are provided. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Jeriva (Syagrus romanzoffiana) is a fruit from palm trees of the Arecaceae family, widely distributed in tropical and subtropical areas of Latin America. It has low production costs and high productivity throughout the year; however, its consumption is very low, and the production goes almost entirely to feed animals or to waste. To improve its consumption, a good characterization of the whole fruit is necessary. The objective of this work was to evaluate the jeriva pulp, peel and seeds according to carotenoids, phenolic compounds, vitamin C, tocopherols and antioxidant potential using HPLC, microplate readers and spectrophotometric methods. Every part of the fruit exhibited antioxidant capacity in the ORAC and TEAC tests, which can be attributed to its high concentration of polyphenols. Carotenoids were more present in the pulp and peel and almost absent in the seeds. Vitamin C ranged from 12 ± 1 for the seeds up to 92 ± 3 mg/100 g for the pulp. The total phenolic content was quantified between 473 ± 39 for the seeds and 1089 ± 32 mg of gallic acid equivalents (GAEs)/100 g for the pulp. These results demonstrate that all parts of this fruit have important bioactive nutrients, with promising perspectives for further scientific approaches and for composing formulations of food products to enhance functional properties. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• New hybrid of Phoenix. • Interesting hybrid in gardening. • New hybrid of Phoenix canariensis. • New hybrid of Phoenix reclinata. Phoenix reclinata Jacq. is a palm species native to tropical and southern Africa, extending to Madagascar, where its natural populations are exploited for sap and fibre. Widely embraced as an ornamental palm in gardens within warm zones abroad, it has established itself as an integral part of horticultural landscapes. On the other hand, Phoenix canariensis H. Wildpret is an endemic species found in the Canary Islands (Spain), forming extensive palm forests. Since the 1850s, it has emerged as the predominant ornamental Phoenix palm tree. Interestingly, in various regions, the natural habitat of one species intersects with cultivated individuals of the other. For instance, in southern Africa, where P. reclinata is indigenous and P. canariensis is exotic, occasional spontaneous hybrids have been reported. These hybrids have also been observed in Florida and California (USA), where both species are cultivated. In this publication, we formally introduce a new hybrid: Phoenix × arehuquensis nov. hybr., originating from the Canary Islands. Additionally, we explore its potential impact on natural palm forests. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Syagrus coronata (Mart.) Becc. belongs to the Arecaceae family. It is a species native to Brazil of ecological, social, and economic importance. To date, there are few mitochondrial genomes in Arecaceae (Cocos nucifera and Phoenix dactylifera L.), and studies of the mitochondrial genome are essential to understand the evolution of the Arecaceae family. This study reports and compares the newly sequenced genome of S. coronata. Single-end and paired-end reads were used to obtain de novo contigs. The mitochondrial contigs were selected using C. nucifera as a reference and were merged using mate paired-end reads. The mitochondrial genome showed 642,817 bp, circular structure, containing 73 predicted functional genes, including four ribosomal RNA (rRNA) genes, 27 transfer RNA (tRNA) genes, and 42 coding protein genes. Large chloroplast genomic fragments were identified in the mitochondrial genome, and large DNA repetitive fragments were into intergenic space regions. Arecaceae mitochondrial genomes showed partial similarities in size, genome structure, and gene content. However, they exhibited numerous rearrangements. In summary, (1) we sequenced the mitochondrial genome of S. coronata and compared with other mitogenomes of Arecaceae. (2) Genomic rearrangements and gene transfer have been identified from the chloroplast genome to the mitochondrial genome. (3) The mitochondrial genome of Arecareae showed similarities in size, structure, and gene content. (4) The expansion of intergenic space size occurs due to the insertion of genes originating from the nucleus. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Las palmeras son una parte integral del paisaje urbano de Florida. La pudrición de las palmas por Ganoderma, una enfermedad causada por el hongo Ganoderma zonatum, que descompone la madera, es una de las principales preocupaciones bióticas para la industria del paisajismo. La enfermedad letal prevalece en las regiones de cultivo de palmeras en los EE. UU., y se cree que todas las especies de palmeras son susceptibles a este hongo. La palma enferma puede tardar entre seis meses y un año en morir una vez que aparecen los síntomas iniciales. Pero con la disponibilidad de un ensayo de diagnóstico de enfermedades, este patógeno fúngico se puede detectar utilizando muestras de aserrín recogidas de palmas en declive, varios meses antes de que aparezcan los síntomas. Aquí se indican los pasos a seguir.

Abstract Conservation and sustainable management of lineages providing non‐timber forest products are imperative under the current global biodiversity loss. Most non‐timber forest species, however, lack genomic studies that characterize their intraspecific variation and evolutionary history, which inform species' conservation practices. Contrary to many lineages in the Andean biodiversity hotspot that exhibit high diversification, the genus Parajubaea (Arecaceae) has only three species despite the genus' origin 22 million years ago. Two of the three palm species, P. torallyi and P. sunkha, are non‐timber forest species endemic to the Andes of Bolivia and are listed as IUCN endangered. The third species, P. cocoides, is a vulnerable species with unknown wild populations. We investigated the evolutionary relationships of Parajubaea species and the genetic diversity and structure of wild Bolivian populations. Sequencing of five low‐copy nuclear genes (3753 bp) challenged the hypothesis that P. cocoides is a cultigen that originated from the wild Bolivian species. We further obtained up to 15,134 de novo single‐nucleotide polymorphism markers by genotyping‐by‐sequencing of 194 wild Parajubaea individuals. Our total DNA sequencing effort rejected the taxonomic separation of the two Bolivian species. As expected for narrow endemic species, we observed low genetic diversity, but no inbreeding signal. We found three genetic clusters shaped by geographic distance, which we use to propose three management units. Different percentages of missing genotypic data did not impact the genetic structure of populations. We use the management units to recommend in situ conservation by creating new protected areas, and ex situ conservation through seed collection.

El aprovechamiento incontrolado de los recursos de Phytelephas macrocarpa y la deforestación han disminuido las poblaciones naturales de la especie cercanas a los centros poblados. En este estudio nos propusimos evaluar la morfología vegetativa de Phytelephas macrocarpa para comprender la variabilidad de sus poblaciones al noroeste de la Amazonía peruana. Para ello, se tuvieron en cuenta 28 caracteres (18 cuantitativos y 10 cualitativos) de 180 individuos adultos, que se compararon mediante las pruebas ANOVA y Kruskal-Wallis y se sometieron a análisis multivariados de agrupamiento jerárquico y de componentes principales. Por último, con un análisis de correlación de Spearman se estimó la asociación entre caracteres, la mayoría de los cuales presentaron una gran variación (

Abstract Hybridization has significant evolutionary consequences across the Tree of Life. The process of hybridization has played a major role in plant evolution and has contributed to species richness and trait variation. Since morphological traits are partially a product of their environment, there may be a link between hybridization and ecology. Plant hybrid species richness is noted to be higher in harsh environments, and we explore this hypothesis with a keystone tropical plant lineage, palms (Arecaceae). Leveraging a recent literature review of naturally occurring palm hybrids, we developed a method to calculate hybrid frequency, and then tested if there is phylogenetic signal of hybrids using a phylogeny of all palms. Further, we used phylogenetic comparative methods to examine the interaction between hybrid frequency and presence in dry environments, on islands, and the species richness of genera. Phylogenetic generalized least squares models had stronger support than models of random association, indicating phylogenetic signal for the presence of hybrids in dry and island environments. However, all p‐values were >.05 and therefore the correlation was poor between hybridization and the trait frequencies examined. Presence in particular environments are not strongly correlated to hybrid frequency, but phylogenetic signal suggests a role in its distribution in different habitats. Hybridization in palms is not evenly distributed across subfamilies, tribes, subtribes yet plays an important role in palm diversity, nonetheless. Increasing our understanding hybridization in this economically and culturally important plant family is essential, particularly since rates are projected to increase with climate change, reconfiguring the dynamics and distribution of biodiversity.

In this millennium, non-wood plants have emerged as a substitute for fibrous substantial attributing to growth in population, industrialization and education. Natural fiber composites are crucial for creating high-performance engineering resources because of their easy accessibility, capacity to be recycled and environmental friendliness. Products from the palm are important and cost-effective for both civic and pastoral locations. The palm fruit cluster, leaf trunks and leaves are utilized domestically and parts are thrown away as waste. This palm waste product is used as a raw substantial for reinforcement in polymer composites as well as a possible source for natural fibers. An overview of the advancements made in the field of Arecaceae (palm) family-based fiber-reinforced composites is presented including information on their current market, matrix combinations, physical qualities, environmental implications, manufacturing methods, chemical processing and acoustic features. In order to optimize the utilization of this bio-based substance and ensure its bright future, a number of important challenges are explored along with ideas for further investigation. The discussion of the impact of palm fibers on final products and the literature analysis highlight additive manufacturing and machine learning-based optimization methods for natural fiber composites (NFC).

Copyright of Biotropica is the property of Wiley-Blackwell and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Copyright of Environmental & Social Management Journal / Revista de Gestão Social e Ambiental is the property of Environmental & Social Management Journal and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

In oil palm, somatic embryogenesis is one of the few methods available for clonal propagation of elite individuals that have already been phenotyped in the field. In this study, we evaluated somatic embryogenesis in immature leaves of adult oil palm plants, with particular focus on the use of temporary immersion systems, and analyzed the genetic and epigenetic fidelity of the resulting clones. Leaf segments identified as belonging to regions L1 to L8 of the heart of palm were cultured in MS medium supplemented with 450 µM Picloram, 0.5 g L− 1 glutamine, 30 g L− 1 sucrose, and 2.5 g L− 1 activated charcoal to induce callogenesis. The resulting calli were then multiplied using different culture systems: semi-solid, stirred liquid, recipient for automated temporary immersion (RITA®), and twin flask bioreactor. Subsequently, differentiation of somatic embryos was carried out in MS medium supplemented with 12.3 µM 2-iP and 0.54 µM NAA. The regeneration phase involved culturing calli with clusters of somatic embryos in the torpedo stage using semi-solid, RITA®, and twin flask systems. At the end of the culture, the genetic and epigenetic fidelity of the regenerated plants was evaluated by ISSR and MS-AFLP markers, respectively. The analysis revealed that callus formation occurred in all leaves except L1. However, leaves collected at L4, L5, and L7 showed significantly higher callus formation rates, averaging around 10%. Stirred liquid medium and the RITA® system exhibited the highest rates of fresh biomass and dry biomass growth for callus multiplication. In terms of regeneration, the best results were obtained with RITA® bioreactors, which led to an average of 14.1 plants per gram of inoculated material. With this system, no variations were observed in the DNA sequence of the regenerated plants, and indices of epigenetic methylation pattern changes as well as DNA hypomethylation rates were lower than in other tested systems. Key message: Leaf position and cultivation time impact callus formation rates in oil palm somatic embryogenesis, while temporary immersion systems are effective for callus multiplication and plant regeneration, ensuring genetic fidelity during clonal propagation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Euterpe edulis is a plant native of Brazil and popularly known as juçara. The aim of this study was to develop and validate an analytical method using high‐performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) of juçara crude extracts (JCEs) and to evaluate dairy products containing free and microencapsulated extracts. The validated analytical method for JCE was performed using cyanidin‐3‐O‐rutinoside (C3R – isolated and identified as major component from JCE) as a reference: linearity was obtained using ten concentrations between 25 and 250 μg mL−1 (R2 = 0.994); limits of detection and quantification were 19.04 μg mL−1 and 57.7 μg mL−1 respectively; accuracy (relative standard deviation) was <5%; recovery was 104.85 μg mL−1; and the method is robust. Physicochemical analyses of the dairy products were evaluated using colour, pH, and concentration of anthocyanins using HPLC calculated as C3R over 21 days of storage. The pH remained stable until the end of the test. The colour and the concentration of anthocyanins remained stable for 9 days. C3R was isolated, the HPLC method was developed and validated, and the colour stability was not altered until 9 days. © 2023 Society of Chemical Industry. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The palm Mauritia flexuosa, which is dominant in morichales [palm swamps], offers diverse ecosystem services that benefit human communities and wildlife. However, anthropogenic impacts affect its integrity, and, given its potential and use as a non-timber product, knowledge of population aspects becomes necessary for its conservation. Therefore, the population structure of M. flexuosa was evaluated in a conserved morichal of the Colombian Altillanura. To this effect, six transects (20 x50 m) were established, in which all individuals of the species were measured. As a result, 434 individuals were recorded and classified into four size classes: seedlings (4%), juveniles I (25%), juveniles II (3%), and adults (68%). These individuals showed an aggregated spatial distribution and densities between 630 and 32 palms/ha. The population exhibits a trend towards low natural regeneration and a decrease in juvenile classes as the level of soil saturation decreases and the canopy closure increases. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Geonoma cuneata is a variable species with eight subspecies and one of two palms worldwide with a gall record. In this species, staggered flowering has been suggested as a possible mechanism to explain its reproductive isolation from sympatric subspecies. In this study, we examined the phenology of two G. cuneata subspecies and their gall inductor, Contarinia geonomae, in the Caribbean lowlands of Costa Rica. For 207 consecutive weeks, we monitored the phenology of 79 G. cuneata individuals and recorded the outcomes of 434 inflorescences in terms of abortions, fruit, and gall success. We analyzed phenological patterns, checked for seasonality and synchrony, and evaluated the effects of precipitation and temperature on each phenophase. The reproductive outcomes of the two subspecies were compared in terms of abortions of the inflorescences and the development of fruits or galls in the infructescences. Both subspecies were mainly seasonal and showed a clear overlap in all phenophases during the four years of study. However, seasonality and synchrony were very well marked in G. cuneata subsp. cuneata whereas G. cuneata subsp. procumbens was characterized by lower synchrony and higher abortion rates. Emergent inflorescences were influenced by average temperature, while flowering was influenced by monthly rainfall and average temperature. Moreover, the peak flowering occurred just after the end of the dry season, whereas ripe fruits peaked at the end of the rainy period. Ripe fruits showed higher levels of synchrony and were the only phenophase in which the mean date did not differ among subspecies. This was partly explained by the higher number of abortions and lower fruiting success of individuals flowering outside the peak period. Instead, such individuals are more likely to have infructescences with galls and higher loads. Flowering convergence did not support phenology as a mechanism of reproductive isolation. However, an extended combination of time from flowering to fruiting in both subspecies benefits the gall inductor by providing an extended period of oviposition and adult emergence. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

For the purpose of understanding the molecular processes triggered during callus formation in macaw palm, the expression of seven genes potentially involved in this process, identified in previous studies and from the literature, was investigated by RT-qPCR. In addition, in situ hybridization of the SERK gene was performed. Leaf tissues from adult plants from two macaw palm accession were inoculated in a medium combined with Picloram at a concentration of 450 μM to induce callus. The expression analysis was performed from leaf samples from two accessions of different origins (Municipalities of Tiros, MG, and Buriti Vermelho, DF, Brazil), which are characterized as non-responsive (NR) and responsive (R), respectively. The material was collected before callus induction (0 DAI, initial day) and 120 days after callus induction (120 DAI). Genes related to development (SERK, OASA, EF1, ANN1) and stress (LEA, CAT2, and MDAR5) were evaluated. The results obtained showed that all the genes involved with the development had their expressions downregulated at 0 DAI when the accession R was compared with the accession NR. On the other hand, it was possible to observe that these genes were upregulated at 120 DAI. The LEA stress gene showed a tendency to increase expression in the NR accession, while the R accession showed decreased expression and the CAT2 and MDAR5 genes showed upregulation in both accessions. In situ hybridization showed SERK transcripts in the vascular bundles, indicating the expression of SERK in this region, in addition to its expression in calluses. The results obtained in this study support our hypothesis that the regulation of genes involved in the control of oxidative stress and development is crucial for the formation of calluses in macaw palm. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Social media platforms focused on wildlife photography have become valuable ecological data sources through citizen science. In this study, we utilized photos shared by citizens on iNaturalist and WikiAves to analyse the interactions of the Red‐bellied Macaw (Orthopsittaca manilatus Boddaert, 1783) with its food plants. Despite being recognized as specialists in Mauritia flexuosa L.f. palm fruits, our findings suggest some flexibility in the foraging behaviour of the macaws. The photos indicate that palm fruits are an essential food source (20 taxa; highlight the native species M. flexuosa, Euterpe spp., Elaeis oleifera, and Syagrus spp.) in the Cerrado and Amazon biomes. It also confirms the predominance of M. flexuosa ripe pulp fruits in their diet, encompassing 45.2% of the 414 analysed photographs. The results highlight the potential role of the Red‐bellied Macaw in seed dispersal (stomatochory) for various palm species and reveal the consumption of new food sources such as flowers (present in 8% of photos) and alien plants, including the fruits of cultivated Livistona chinensis (Jacq.) R. Br. Ex Mart. palm (10.9%). Our photo analysis provided a comprehensive overview of Red‐bellied Macaws feeding in diverse localities (141 municipalities in 15 Brazilian states) and at different times. As a result, there is a consistent seasonal variation in foraging in the strongly seasonal Cerrado biome, for example, feeding on alien‐cultivated palm fruits in urban areas during the driest period, particularly L. chinensis. Through this photographic approach, we expanded knowledge of the macaw's food plants by 85.7%, now encompassing 26 species compared to the initial 14 documented species. This study underscores the relevance of citizen science in obtaining novel dietary data and deepening our understanding of ecological patterns in specialized species, emphasizing the significance of considerate plant‐bird relationships to support conservation efforts. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Palms (Arecaceae) exert great relevance to the structure and functioning of tropical forest ecosystems, in addition to comprise key resources for frugivorous animals. However, many species are currently at risk of extinction due to overexploitation and/or habitat loss. Our study aimed to perform a systematic review with a scientometric approach of all 78 native palm species of the Brazilian Atlantic Forest, seeking to identify the best‐studied species and regions, main studied topics, overall patterns, trends and gaps in scientific research associated with this botany family. In total, studies were carried out for 48 species belonging to 10 genera, with the number of studies exponentially increasing from the 70s and exhibiting great difference in the number of publications among species. Euterpe edulis was the most studied species (n = 274), followed by Acrocomia aculeata (n = 205), whereas Bactris bahiensis (1), Geonoma litoralis (1), Syagrus santosii (1) and Trithrinax acanthocoma (0) comprised the less studied species. The largest number of studies was carried out in the south‐eastern states of Brazil. Regarding the type of studies, 34% and 27% were related to biochemical properties and ecological processes, respectively, while studies on entomology (n = 26), tissue culture (n = 23) and taxonomy (n = 7) showed the lowest number of studies. Given the key role of palms in tropical forests, our study suggests that future research should focus on less studied species, including Desmoncus spp., Geonoma spp. and Trithrinax sp., and on some less studied areas like the north‐east portion of the Atlantic Forest. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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ABSTRACT The use of silicates in plant tissue culture has resulted in positive effects regarding the morphological, anatomical and physiological characteristics of in vitro plants. However, biological responses to this mineral are dose and genotype dependent. The objective of the present study was to evaluate the influence of silicon supplementation on the somatic embryogenesis of oil palm (Elaeis guineensis Jacq.). The study was carried out in three stages of the cloning process, namely: Regeneration (i) and germination (ii) of somatic embryos and during ex vitro acclimatization (iii) of regenerated plantlets. The culture media were supplemented with four doses (0.0, 0.5, 1.0 and 1.5 g L-1) of calcium silicate (CaSiO3). The resulting plantlets were transplanted and acclimatized in a greenhouse. The regression analysis showed that the dose of 0.63g L-1 of CaSiO3 induced a higher rate of regeneration, which would allow a 58% increase in the number of somatic embryos formed. However, the germination of the plantlets, as well as their morphometric characters, were not affected by the different doses of CaSiO3, although the presence of this compound promoted an increase in the thickness of the epidermis and a reduction in the amount of epicuticular wax. Overall, silicon does contribute to the cloning of E. guineensis.

Mauritia flexuosa e Mauritiella armata são palmeiras definidoras das veredas do norte de Minas Gerais e consideradas espécies-chave pela importância ecológica e valor sociobiocultural para seus povos tradicionais, os veredeiros, que são detentores de Conhecimentos Ecológicos Locais que permeiam sua relação com o ambiente. Contudo, seu direito ao acesso e uso do território é limitado pelas áreas de Unidades de Conservação. Estudos etnobotânicos e etnoecológicos buscam compreender como as pessoas interpretam, classificam e utilizam a flora, criando alternativas produtivas e direcionando o uso de forma sustentável. Este trabalho investigou as formas de uso, manejo e conservação das palmeiras-chave em três comunidades veredeiras na Área de Proteção Ambiental do Rio Pandeiros, município de Bonito de Minas, Norte de Minas Gerais. A partir de uma análise qualitativa, foram realizadas entrevistas semiestruturadas, ocorridas após o consentimento prévio dos entrevistados e seguindo normas sanitárias de prevenção à Covid-19. Os dados foram transcritos, analisados e organizados em quadros e ilustrações. Foram entrevistadas 11 mulheres e oito homens, que indicaram a utilização das folhas, pecíolos, frutos e estipes das palmeiras. Os frutos e folhas foram mais representativos, principalmente na alimentação e construção. Nas formas locais de manejo são indicadas técnicas menos danosas, levando em consideração as palmeiras e as veredas. Essas comunidades têm íntima relação com o ambiente e seus conhecimentos podem contribuir para a construção participativa de estratégias de manejo sustentável na APA do Rio Pandeiros. Por essa razão, devem ter assegurado seu direito de acesso e uso sustentável da biodiversidade em seus territórios tradicionais.

Abstract Background Oxidative stress and diabetes are medical conditions that have a growing prevalence worldwide, significantly impacting our bodies. Thus, it is essential to develop new natural antioxidant and antidiabetic agents. Dypsis pembana (H.E.Moore) Beentje & J.Dransf (DP) is an ornamental palm of the family Arecaceae. This study aimed to broaden the understanding of this plant’s biological properties by evaluating its in vitro antioxidant and antidiabetic activities. Methods The in vitro antioxidant activities of the crude extract, fractions, and selected isolates were evaluated by DPPH method. While the in vitro antidiabetic activities of these samples were evaluated by assessing the degree of inhibition of α-glucosidase. Additionally, molecular docking analysis was performed to investigate the interactions of tested compounds with two potential targets, the cytochrome c peroxidase and alpha glucosidase. Results The crude extract displayed the highest antioxidant activity (IC50 of 11.56 µg/ml), whereas among the fractions, the EtOAc fraction was the most potent (IC50 of 14.20 µg/ml). Among tested compounds, isoquercetrin (10) demonstrated the highest potency, with an IC50 value of 3.30 µg/ml, followed by rutin (8) (IC50 of 3.61 µg/ml). Regarding antidiabetic activity, the EtOAc (IC50 of 60.4 µg/ml) and CH2Cl2 fractions (IC50 of 214.9 µg/ml) showed activity, while the other fractions did not demonstrate significant antidiabetic effects. Among tested compounds, kaempferol-3-O-neohesperidoside (9) showed the highest antidiabetic activity, with an IC50 value of 18.38 µg/ml, followed by kaempferol (4) (IC50 of 37.19 µg/ml). These experimental findings were further supported by molecular docking analysis, which revealed that isoquercetrin and kaempferol-3-O-neohesperidoside exhibited strong enzyme-binding affinities to the studied enzyme targets. This analysis provided insights into the structure-activity relationships among the investigated flavonol-O-glycosides. Conclusion The biological and computational findings revealed that isoquercetrin and kaempferol-3-O-neohesperidoside have potential as lead compounds for inhibiting cytochrome c peroxidase and alpha glucosidase enzymes, respectively.

The production of flowers and fruit below ground (geoflory and geocarpy, respectively) is a paradoxical reproductive strategy that seemingly hinders pollination and dispersal. Though rare, these phenomena occur in 33 angiosperm families. Plants that flower and fruit entirely below ground are exceptionally unusual. Pinanga subterranea (Arecaceae), a species new to science from Borneo, is the first member of the palm family recorded to flower and fruit almost exclusively below ground. This raises many questions about its evolution, pollination and dispersal, which we discuss here. Strikingly, this remarkable species is widespread across western Borneo and valued by the local people for its edible fruits but has escaped the attention of scientists until now.

Background: Oxidative stress and diabetes are medical conditions that have a growing prevalence worldwide, significantly impacting our bodies. Thus, it is essential to develop new natural antioxidant and antidiabetic agents. Dypsis pembana (H.E.Moore) Beentje & J.Dransf (DP) is an ornamental palm of the family Arecaceae. This study aimed to broaden the understanding of this plant's biological properties by evaluating its in vitro antioxidant and antidiabetic activities. Methods: The in vitro antioxidant activities of the crude extract, fractions, and selected isolates were evaluated by DPPH method. While the in vitro antidiabetic activities of these samples were evaluated by assessing the degree of inhibition of α-glucosidase. Additionally, molecular docking analysis was performed to investigate the interactions of tested compounds with two potential targets, the cytochrome c peroxidase and alpha glucosidase. Results: The crude extract displayed the highest antioxidant activity (IC50 of 11.56 µg/ml), whereas among the fractions, the EtOAc fraction was the most potent (IC50 of 14.20 µg/ml). Among tested compounds, isoquercetrin (10) demonstrated the highest potency, with an IC50 value of 3.30 µg/ml, followed by rutin (8) (IC50 of 3.61 µg/ml). Regarding antidiabetic activity, the EtOAc (IC50 of 60.4 µg/ml) and CH2Cl2 fractions (IC50 of 214.9 µg/ml) showed activity, while the other fractions did not demonstrate significant antidiabetic effects. Among tested compounds, kaempferol-3-O-neohesperidoside (9) showed the highest antidiabetic activity, with an IC50 value of 18.38 µg/ml, followed by kaempferol (4) (IC50 of 37.19 µg/ml). These experimental findings were further supported by molecular docking analysis, which revealed that isoquercetrin and kaempferol-3-O-neohesperidoside exhibited strong enzyme-binding affinities to the studied enzyme targets. This analysis provided insights into the structure-activity relationships among the investigated flavonol-O-glycosides. Conclusion: The biological and computational findings revealed that isoquercetrin and kaempferol-3-O-neohesperidoside have potential as lead compounds for inhibiting cytochrome c peroxidase and alpha glucosidase enzymes, respectively. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Geonoma maxima (Poit.) Kunth is an example of a species complex, among many others restricted to Neotropical rain forests, which contribute to their high species diversity. Using environmental, morphological, karyological, and molecular data, we aim to test the taxonomic circumscription of 3 of the 11 G. maxima subspecies defined in the latest taxonomic treatment. We evaluated 217 samples of G. maxima complex from Ducke Reserve in the state of Amazonas, Brazil. Environmental preferences were significant at the 0.1% level. Subspecies maxima occurred in the slope, subsp. chelidonura in the floodplain, and subsp. spixiana in the plateau. Leaf morphology and height were different for each subspecies, but not leaf anatomy. The karyotypes of subspp. chelidonura and maxima were symmetrical with 2n = 28 chromosomes, 16 metacentric and 12 submetacentric. Molecular analysis revealed two groups, one comprised subspp. maxima and chelidonura, and the other formed exclusively by subsp. spixiana. At Ducke Reserve, it is clear that the three subspecies are easily recognizable morphologically and ecologically, and it is likely that they do not interbreed locally. However, if these subspecies are analyzed on a larger geographic scale, it may not be possible to separate them. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and aims: Butia yatay and Syagrus romanzoffiana are the most popular ornamental palms trees (Arecaceae) cultivated in many cities of Argentina. During the summer both species produce large quantities of fruits that are arranged in pendulous clusters, very striking due to their organoleptic characteristics: intense color and sweet aroma; however, they are underestimated by the urban population to be used as an alternative source of food. This study aimed to characterize these fruits morphoanatomy, histochemical and nutritional composition in order to encourage their consumption. M&M: The fruits were collected and fixed for standard anatomical examination or used fresh for histochemical study. The proximal composition, total phenolic, and fatty acids were determined. Results: The pulps presented large idioblasts containing tannins, mucilage and calcium oxalate raphides. The presence of groups of fibers of different sizes and vascular bundles surrounded by highly developed sclerenchyma sheaths, scattered throughout the mesocarp, was observed. Both fruits were rich in carbohydrate content (B. yatay 11,4 mg g-1 and S. romanzoffiana 37,3 mg g-1) and proved to be a good source of dietary fiber and linoleic and linolenic acids, indispensable for human nutrition since they are parent fatty acids of de omega 6 and omega 3 family. Conclusions: The anatomical and histochemical study of the fruits of B. yatay and S. romanzoffiana allowed us to establish correlations between the observed characters and their proximal and nutritional composition. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Premise: The ornamental Asian palm Trachycarpus fortunei (Arecaceae: Coryphoideae) is widely planted in temperate regions. In Europe, it has spread outside of gardens, particularly on the southern side of the Alps. Sexual expression in the species is complex, varying from dioecy to polygamy. This study investigated (1) sexual floral development and (2) genetic markers implicated in sex determinism. Methods: The morphology and anatomy of floral organs at different developmental stages were studied using SEM observations and anatomical section. Sex determinism was explored using a genome‐wide association study approach, searching for correlations between 31,000 single‐nucleotide polymorphisms and sex affiliation of 122 palms from 21 wild populations. Results: We observed that sexual differentiation appears late in floral development of T. fortunei. Morpho‐anatomical characters of flowers conducive to panmixia were observed, such as well‐differentiated septal nectaries that are thought to promote cross‐pollination. At the molecular level, homozygous and heterozygous allelic systems with closely linked regions were found for sex determinism in individuals with female and "dominant‐male" phenotypes, respectively. Through our wide sampling in the southern Alps, the closely linked genetic regions in males suggest that at least fifteen percent of wild palms are the direct offspring of "males" that can also produce fertile pistillate flowers. Conclusions: Trachycarpus fortunei is a further example of unstable sexual expression found in the family Arecaceae and represents an evolutionary path towards an XY genetic system. Our structural and genetic results may explain the high species dispersal ability in the southern Alps. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aimed to subject the albino peach palm to cooking and drying processes and characterize the raw pulp (RP), cooked pulp (CP), raw pulp flour (RPF), and cooked pulp flour (CPF). The product's chemical composition, bioactive compounds, and physicochemical, color, thermal, morphological, and functional–technological properties were evaluated. The proximate composition showed that carbohydrates were the main constituents of all the products (69.59–72.08 g/100 g). The cooking process decreased the lipids (10.21 to 8.63 g/100 g), dietary fiber (13.64 to 12.81 g/100 g), and total sugar content (59.18 to 49.10 g/100 g) of the CP. The colorimetric parameters indicated a significant browning of the CP and CPF, which can be attributed to the Maillard reaction and lipid oxidation. After cooking, the total phenolic compound and ascorbic acid content decreased in the pulp. The RPF and CPF displayed different thermogravimetric behaviors. The spectral patterns in the infrared region showed the characteristic bands of organic compounds that are present in the structure of starches. The scanning electron microscopy showed amyloplast and fiber bundles with starches in the RP and gelatinized starch granules in the CP and CPF. The RPF presented small and heterogeneous starch granules with isolated amyloplast. The RPF and CPF showed different granulometric patterns and technological indices. The results suggest that the pulp and flour from the pulp of albino peach palms can be exploited by the food, pharmaceutical, and biotechnological industries. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Brazilian semiarid region presents a rainy season, characterized by irregular precipitation, and a dry season. In turn, the palm tree Syagrus coronata is a key species from this region, being highly exploited by local human populations. Understanding how climate and landscape changes have affected the distribution of genetic diversity among and within palm tree populations is essential to propose effective conservation strategies. Therefore, we investigated the historical climate suitability and estimated the genetic diversity and population structure along the natural range of S. coronata based on microsatellite markers. In spite of high exploitation, high levels of genetic diversity were usually observed in adult specimens of S. coronata. The most genetically diverse populations are located in the center of the geographic distribution, namely: Brumado (BRU), Campos de São João (CSJ) and Itaberaba (ITA), overlapped with ancient glacial refugia. In addition, signs of population expansion from the Late Interglacial Period to present days were identified, including evidence of new occurrence outside their original habitat. The high diversity and moderate structure of S. coronata contrasts with recent landscape fragmentation, suggesting that long-term monitoring and proper management of genetic variation should be performed in this palm tree. Furthermore, the expansion in the natural range of an endemic palm tree from semiarid to other biomes represents an alert on current climate changes and desertification processes in tropical regions. Highlights: Historical climate modeling revealed a continuous expansion of semiarid areas favorable to the dispersal of S. coronata. Most of genetic variation was found within populations not reflecting the current pattern of habitat fragmentation. Climate and dispersal conditions seem to play a major role in the wide distribution of populations of S. coronata in semiarid. The present study represents a suitable model for further inferences in widespread plants from arid regions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Ambient sun drying is the method most used by Indigenous communities for preserving fruits and seeds harvested from the forest. It is an effective method to increase the shelf-life of highly perishable foods and prevent spoilage until important bioactive compounds can be extracted at distant locations. The ambient sun drying kinetics and oil extraction of the pulp and seeds of commercially important oleaginous fruit directly obtained from the rainforests and swamps of Guyana, namely Astrocaryum vulgare (Awara), Astrocaryum aculeatum (Kuru), Oenocarpus bacaba (Turu), Mauritia flexuosa (Ite), Euterpe oleracea (Acai), Caryocar nuciferum (Souari), Attalea maripa (Kukrit), and Carapa guianensis (Crabwood), were studied. The fruits were dried under ambient conditions from initial moisture contents ranging from 24–71% to a final moisture content of 5%. Three models, the Lewis model, the modified Page model, and the standard logistic function (SLF) model, were utilized to model the drying kinetics and to estimate the parameters governing the drying process. These models were demonstrated to fit the experimental data with excellent goodness of fit (>0.98). The SLF, never used before to model drying kinetics, was observed to be the best-suited model overall, with the highest correlation coefficient and the least Chi-square (χ2). Depending on the fruit type, the estimated point where the maximum drying rate occurs varies from 35 min to 350 min for sun-dried fruit pulp and up to 4000 min for sun-dried kernels. The steepness of the drying curves varied from −0.5 to −3.5 g/min. The results of this work will aid in the design, development, optimization, and control of the ambient drying processes of economically and functionally important oleaginous forest fruits. This knowledge will assist in addressing the key challenge of spoilage faced by Indigenous communities in the preservation of tropical oleaginous fruits and seeds, possibly aiding in the preservation of functional characteristics of the extracted oils and adducing to the sustainable economic utilization of such fruit. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Summary: Strong paleoclimatic change and few Late Quaternary megafauna extinctions make mainland Africa unique among continents. Here, we hypothesize that, compared with elsewhere, these conditions created the ecological opportunity for the macroevolution and geographic distribution of large fruits.We assembled global phylogenetic, distribution and fruit size data for palms (Arecaceae), a pantropical, vertebrate‐dispersed family with > 2600 species, and integrated these with data on extinction‐driven body size reduction in mammalian frugivore assemblages since the Late Quaternary. We applied evolutionary trait, linear and null models to identify the selective pressures that have shaped fruit sizes.We show that African palm lineages have evolved towards larger fruit sizes and exhibited faster trait evolutionary rates than lineages elsewhere. Furthermore, the global distribution of the largest palm fruits across species assemblages was explained by occurrence in Africa, especially under low canopies, and extant megafauna, but not by mammalian downsizing. These patterns strongly deviated from expectations under a null model of stochastic (Brownian motion) evolution.Our results suggest that Africa provided a distinct evolutionary arena for palm fruit size evolution. We argue that megafaunal abundance and the expansion of savanna habitat since the Miocene provided selective advantages for the persistence of African plants with large fruits. This article is part of the Special Collection 'Global plant diversity and distribution'. See https://www.newphytologist.org/global-plant-diversity for more details. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

During the Quaternary, Chaco Phytogeographic Domain (Chaco) flora in subtropical South America experienced temperature and humidity fluctuations, primarily driven by wind dynamics, leading to significant shifts in species distribution. The palm Butia yatay is endemic to the Chaco and thrives in areas characterized by a warm–rainy climate and mostly restricted to sandy soils. To investigate the current geographic distribution of suitable habitat for B. yatay while assessing the significance of soil variables, we employed two distinct algorithms in species distribution modeling (SDM). We also determined whether the distribution of B. yatay has changed since the Pleistocene and whether these changes align with previously proposed Pleistocene refugia. In the present SDMs, we considered two separate sets of predictors, one set with bioclimatic variables only and the other set with bioclimatic topographic and soil variables. Additionally, we reconstructed the historical geographic distribution of suitable habitats using bioclimatic data. Our results suggested that the primary determinants of B. yatay's current distribution include precipitation and temperature of the driest month and soil cation exchange capacity. Incorporating soil variables affected the estimated size and range of suitable areas. Projections into the past indicated similar suitable habitat distributions during interglacial periods compared with the present. During the Last Glacial Maximum, climatically suitable habitat may have shifted northward, partially overlapping with previously suggested Pleistocene refugia located between the Paraná and Uruguay Rivers. These findings indicate the main factors driving the distribution and ecology of B. yatay and enhance understanding of subtropical flora shifts during the Quaternary. The approach also may prove valuable for other studies within the Chaco. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Over the past three decades, a wealth of studies has shown that palm trees (Arecaceae) are a diverse habitat with intense fungal colonisation, making them an important substratum to explore fungal diversity. Palm trees are perennial, monocotyledonous plants mainly restricted to the tropics that include economically important crops and highly valued ornamental plants worldwide. The extensive research conducted in Southeast Asia and Australasia indicates that palm fungi are undoubtedly a taxonomically diverse assemblage from which a remarkable number of new species is continuously being reported. Despite this wealth of data, no recent comprehensive review on palm fungi exists to date. In this regard, we present here a historical account and discussion of the research on the palm fungi to reflect on their importance as a diverse and understudied assemblage. The taxonomic structure of palm fungi is also outlined, along with comments on the need for further studies to place them within modern DNA sequence-based classifications. Palm trees can be considered model plants for studying fungal biodiversity and, therefore, the key role of palm fungi in biodiversity surveys is discussed. The close association and intrinsic relationship between palm hosts and palm fungi, coupled with a high fungal diversity, suggest that the diversity of palm fungi is still far from being fully understood. The figures suggested in the literature for the diversity of palm fungi have been revisited and updated here. As a result, it is estimated that there are about 76,000 species of palm fungi worldwide, of which more than 2500 are currently known. This review emphasises that research on palm fungi may provide answers to a number of current fungal biodiversity challenges. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The production of flowers and fruit below ground (geoflory and geocarpy, respectively) is a paradoxical reproductive strategy that seemingly hinders pollination and dispersal. Though rare, these phenomena occur in 33 angiosperm families. Plants that flower and fruit entirely below ground are exceptionally unusual. Pinanga subterranea (Arecaceae), a species new to science from Borneo, is the first member of the palm family recorded to flower and fruit almost exclusively below ground. This raises many questions about its evolution, pollination and dispersal, which we discuss here. Strikingly, this remarkable species is widespread across western Borneo and valued by the local people for its edible fruits but has escaped the attention of scientists until now. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

As plants are sessile organisms, their response to environmental change may be mechanistically mediated by reproductive traits. The spatial segregation and physiological specialization of the sexes in dioicous plants, for instance, create mismatches in individual responses to environmental change. Conversely, the ability of self-fertilization circumvents the need for sexual partners and has been linked to the dominance of hermaphrodites in habitats with drought stress. Sexual systems (dioecy, hermaphroditism, monoecy, and polygamy) are key drivers of plant distribution, which raises the question of how they will respond to climate change. Here, we leverage the diversity of the sexual systems of palms (Arecaceae) to test their role on species distribution potential under climate change, comparing distribution patterns among biogeographic realms. Additionally, we evaluated how climate change will affect the palm richness patterns worldwide. We fitted ecological niche models to species' occurrence and climate and soil data from present-day conditions, then projected onto climate change projections referred to years 2050 and 2090. We found that different sexual systems of palms respond similarly to climate change, with reductions in potential distribution expected for all sexual systems. Most species (354 out of 540) are expected to lose suitable areas, particularly in Neotropics, where palm richness is concentrated. Sharp richness loss is projected for Amazonia and Neotropical savanna – Cerrado, which can lose up to 50 and 40 palms, respectively. As sexual systems responded similarly to climate change, their role in species' response to climate change remains elusive. Our work does show that threats of climate change to global palm richness are ubiquitous, yet uneven geographically. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The capacity to emit isoprene, among other stresses, protects plants from drought, but the molecular mechanisms underlying this trait are only partly understood. The Arecaceae (palms) constitute a very interesting model system to test the involvement of isoprene in enhancing drought tolerance, as their high isoprene emissions may have contributed to make them hyperdominant in neotropical dry forests, characterized by recurrent and extended periods of drought stress. In this study we isolated and functionally characterized a novel isoprene synthase, the gene responsible for isoprene biosynthesis, from Copernicia prunifera, a palm from seasonally dry tropical forests. When overexpressed in the non-emitter Arabidopsis thaliana, CprISPS conferred significant levels of isoprene emission, together with enhanced tolerance to water limitation throughout plant growth and development, from germination to maturity. CprISPS overexpressors displayed higher germination, cotyledon/leaf greening, water usage efficiency, and survival than WT Arabidopsis under various types of water limitation. This increased drought tolerance was accompanied by a marked transcriptional up-regulation of both ABA-dependent and ABA-independent key drought response genes. Taken together, these results demonstrate the capacity of CprISPS to enhance drought tolerance in Arabidopsis and suggest that isoprene emission could have evolved in Arecaceae as an adaptive mechanism against drought. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Dypsis leptocheilos aerial parts (Arecaceae). • In vitro cytotoxicity (PC-3, HepG-2, HCT-116, and MCF-7). • Green-synthetized silver nanoparticles. • Metabolomics study. • Network Pharmacology Analysis Cancer, which is characterized by uncontrolled cell growth and division with loss of physiological functions. It is one of the most fatal diseases in the world. For thousands of years, natural treatments, particularly those made from natural products, have been used to cure a variety of diseases, including cancer. Several Arecaceae species have been suggested as potential treatments for a range of cancer types. Arecaceae have a long history of use in folk medicine to treat tumors and a variety of infectious disorders. The green synthesis of silver nanoparticles (SNP) using the total ethanolic extract of Dypsis leptocheilos aerial parts (TEEDL) as a reducing agent was investigated for their cytotoxic activity (using the MTT assay) for the first time. A color change from faint yellow to reddish brown in the first stages of SNP synthesis, indicating the synthesis of nanoparticles. The prepared nanoparticles were also elucidated by using UV-visible spectroscopy, Fourier Transforms infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR), transmission electron microscope (TEM), and Zeta potential. The purified silver nanoparticle preparation demonstrated more promising cytotoxic activity against tested various cell lines than TEEDL. Cell viability by using the MTT assay demonstrated the cytotoxic activity of (TEEDL-based SNPs) against breast cancer cells (MCF-7), liver carcinoma (HepG2), colon carcinoma (HCT-116), and prostate carcinoma (PC-3) cell lines with IC 50 = 4.49 ± 0.23, 0.95 ± 0.05, 1.8 ± 0.1, and 2.74 ± 0.52 µg/mL, respectively. To find out which of the secondary metabolites are responsible for this activity, the metabolic profile of TEEDL was investigated. It detected 29 compounds. Finally, a network pharmacology analysis was conducted to find out the annotated genes identified by the major identified flavonoidal compounds. The results identified 145 genes annotated by the 10 major flavonoidal compounds. AKR1B1and CA7 were highly represented genes. Four-gene disease networks were constructed; (gene-breast cancers), (gene-liver cancers), and (gene-colon cancers), and (gene-prostate cancers). KEGG pathway analysis showed the top biological pathways related to all genes were nitrogen metabolism pathway, the VEGF signaling pathway, and EGFR tyrosine kinase inhibitor resistance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim: Fruit selection by animal dispersers with different mobility directly impacts plant geographical range size, which, in turn, may impact plant diversification. Here, we examine the interaction between fruit colour, range size and diversification rate in palms by testing two hypotheses: (1) species with fruit colours attractive to birds have larger range sizes due to high dispersal ability and (2) disperser mobility affects whether small or large range size has higher diversification, and intermediate range size is expected to lead to the highest diversification rate regardless of disperser. Location: Global. Taxon: Arecaceae (palms). Methods: Palm species were grouped based on likely animal disperser group for given fruit colours. Range sizes were estimated by constructing alpha convex hull polygons from distribution data. We examined disperser group, range size or an interaction of both as possible drivers of change in diversification rate over time in a likelihood dynamic model (Several Examined State‐dependent Speciation and Extinction [SecSSE]). Models were fitted, rate estimates were retrieved and likelihoods were compared to those of appropriate null models. Results: Species with fruit colours associated with mammal dispersal had larger ranges than those with colours associated with bird dispersal. The best fitting SecSSE models indicated that the examined traits were not the primary driver of the heterogeneity in diversification rates in the model. Extinction rate complexity had a marked impact on model performance and on diversification rates. Main Conclusions: Two traits related to dispersal mobility, range size and fruit colour, were not identified as the main drivers of diversification in palms. Increased model extinction rate complexity led to better performing models, which indicates that net diversification should be estimated rather than speciation alone. However, increased complexity may lead to incorrect SecSSE model conclusions without careful consideration. Finally, we find palms with more mobile dispersers do not have larger range sizes, meaning other factors are more important determinants of range size. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Hyphaene thebaica, also known as doum, is a wild plant growing in Egypt, Sudan, and other African countries. It is usually used to prepare nutritive diets, tasty beverages, and other food products. This review aimed to highlight the phytochemical composition of the doum plant using NMR, GC–MS, HPLC, and UPLC/Qtof/MS. The reported active constituents are also described, with flavonoids, phenolic acids, and saponins being the most dominant components. Extraction methods, both conventional and non-conventional, and their existing parameters were summarized. The in vitro and in vivo studies on the extracts and active constituents were also reported. We focused on different applications of doum in functional food products, animal feeding systems, and pharmaceutical applications. Doum is considered a promising dietary and therapeutic candidate to be applied on a wider scale. Proteomic analysis of doum and clinical assessment are still lacking and warrant further investigations in the future. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]