Melanochyla scalarinervis
| Melanochyla scalarinervis | |
|---|---|
| Scientific classification | |
| Kingdom: | Plantae |
| Clade: | Tracheophytes |
| Clade: | Angiosperms |
| Clade: | Eudicots |
| Clade: | Rosids |
| Order: | Sapindales |
| Family: | Anacardiaceae |
| Genus: | Melanochyla |
| Species: | M. scalarinervis
|
| Binomial name | |
| Melanochyla scalarinervis Kochummen[2]
| |
Melanochyla scalarinervis is a flowering plant in the family Anacardiaceae. It is native to Borneo.[3]
Description
Melanochyla scalarinervis grows as a tree up to 22 m (70 ft) tall, with a trunk diameter of up to 15 cm (6 in). The black bark is smooth. The leathery leaves are oblong measure up to 25 cm (10 in) long and to 7 cm (2.8 in) wide. The smooth, ellipsoid fruits measure up to 2.5 cm (1 in) long.[3]
Taxonomy
Melanochyla scalarinervis was described by Malaysian botanist K. M. Kochummen in 1996 in Sandakania.[2] The type specimen was collected in Sarawak. The specific epithet scalarinervis means 'ladder-like veins', referring to the leaves.[3]
Distribution and habitat
Melanochyla scalarinervis is endemic to Borneo, where it is confined to Sarawak. Its habitat is in lowland dipterocarp forests, to elevations of 200 m (700 ft).[1]
Conservation
Melanochyla scalarinervis has been assessed as near threatened on the IUCN Red List. The species is confined to Semengoh Nature Reserve where it is currently protected. However, if this protection were to diminish, the species' habitat would probably experience logging and conversion of land for palm oil plantations.[1]
References
- ^ a b c Julia, S. (2021). "Melanochyla scalarinervis". IUCN Red List of Threatened Species. 2021 e.T170573490A170576416. doi:10.2305/IUCN.UK.2021-2.RLTS.T170573490A170576416.en. Retrieved 21 January 2026.
- ^ a b "Melanochyla scalarinervis Kochummen". Plants of the World Online. Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew. Retrieved 21 January 2026.
- ^ a b c Kochummen, K. M. (1996). "Melanochyla Hook.f.". In Soepadmo, E.; Wong, K. M.; Saw, L. G. (eds.). Tree Flora of Sabah and Sarawak. Vol. 2. Forest Research Institute Malaysia. p. 58. ISBN 983-9592-56-4.