Figuier du paysFicus mauritiana
Category
- Forests
Description
The Ficus mauritiana is a tree of the Moraceae’s family that can reach 10 m high, it has thick branches with broad green leaves. The species has the particularity to form directly on aerial roots that hang from the tree. Its fruits, figs, resemble those of the common fig tree by their appearance and size.
Habitat and ecology
This species is endemic to Mauritius and Réunion. It is found in both intermediate forests and upland wetlands. Its wide canopy can cover a large area and it often grows epiphytically on other plants or on rocks. The fruits are dispersed by birds and bats and the natural regeneration of seedlings can be observed in the wild.
Conservation and threats
F. mauritiana is ranked ‘Least Concern’ on the IUCN Red List. There is no conservation plan for this species. However, the plant is used in reforestation activities in nature and in landscaping. The size of its population may decline due to invasive exotic species.
Did you know?
These figs are edible but are not tasty.The first plant sample was collected by Jean-Baptiste Pierre Antoine de Monet, Chevalier de Lamarck in 1788.
