Acacia mangium
(Fabaceae)
Names and origins
Characters
Ecology
Uses
Conservation
This field has a content
Forest type (costal, hill, lowland, peatswamp, mountains, kerangas...)
Forest Layer (emergent, canopy, understory, forest floor, liana...)
Pioneer tree, late sucessional tree
Symbiotic microorganisms (Nitrogen-fixing bacteria, ectomycorrhiza)
Seed dispersal by animals
Pollination by birds, bats, bees, beetles
Symbiosis with animals, ants
Flowering habits and frequency
Seed germination conditions and time
<p>The ecological niche of both <i>Acacia mangium</i> and its counterpart, <i>Acacia auriculiformis</i>, are strikingly similar. These fast-growing trees have the potential to reach heights of up to 35 meters, thrive in both nutrient-rich and impoverished soils, and exhibit resilience to acidic and saline environments. Additionally, they boast abundant flowering year-round, emitting a fragrant aroma that attracts bees and other pollinating insects. Notably, both species benefit from the presence of the Kerenga ant, which assists in their pollination by feeding on their sugar-rich sap.</p> <p><i>Acacia mangium</i> is a pioneer species that thrives in open spaces and ultimately becomes a dominant presence in the landscape. This phenomenon has sparked numerous concerns regarding local biodiversity in various countries. One major issue is the widespread monoculture cultivation of <i>Acacia mangium</i> in tropical regions for industrial purposes such as pulp and paper production.</p> <p>Trees are propagated by seeds, which can be accelerated by soaking them in boiling water for 10 minutes to speed up germination. Birds play a role in dispersing the seeds as they consume them.</p>