The wildlife of the Riviera Maya and its environment IV

Description: Possibly attaining a height of over 45 meters (147 feet), this tree is very common; but unlike other common tress of the region, this one is wind-pollinated. During the spring months it produces highly nutritious orange fruits that are consumed by animals and human beings alike.

Habitat: Being highly tolerant of rocky and calcareous soils, this tree is found locally in both low and medium forests. As it also tolerates shade well; its seedlings flourish beneath other forest trees, eventually outgrowing them in height and becoming part of the forest canopy.

Threats: Due to its hardiness and wide distribution, this species is not at all endangered. It does however play an important role in maintaining ecological balance, which is threatened by any type of destruction of the forest.

Uses and beliefs: The Maya have used this plant for a variety of traditional medical treatments. In addition, because of its high nutritional value and the fact that it can be used as a corn substitute for making porridges and tortilla dough, this plant’s fruits have been used, perhaps for millennia, as food during times of scarcity of corn. This occurred during the Caste War (1845 – 1901), a Maya uprising, which in its final years was centered in the central Quintana Roo settlements of Tulum and Felipe Carillo Puerto. In areas where cattle are raised, such as in the State of Yucatán, the leaves of this tree are also highly valued as a forage crop.

How to protect it: By supporting programs which promote the protection of the forests, including reforestation

Where to observe it: In forested areas on the hotel grounds and surrounding the golf course