More than 2200 species of the wild flora and fauna photographed in Zihuatanejo, Guerrero, Mexico and the surrounding area.
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Fruits of Zihuatanejo
Hippomane
Hippomane (Genus)
-Vascular Plants (Phylum Tracheophyta)
-Flowering Plants (Subphylum Angiospermae)
-Nances, Willows, and Allies (Order Malpighiales)
-Spurge Family (Family Euphorbiaceae)
-Subfamily Euphorbioideae
-Tribe Hippomaneae
-Genus Hippomane
A present-day Spanish name for the Manchineel Tree is manzanilla de la muerte, "little apple of death". This refers to the fact that manchineel is one of the most toxic trees in the world: the tree has milky-white sap which contains numerous toxins and can cause blistering. The sap is present in every part of the tree – bark, leaves, and fruit. The manchineel tree provides food and habitat for some species that are immune to its toxicity.
Description
• Hippomane is a genus of flowering trees and shrubs in the spurge family (Euphorbiaceae). Members typically have alternate, simple leaves, small inconspicuous flowers, and fruits that develop into fleshy or capsule-like structures. The genus is best known for Hippomane mancinella, the manchineel tree, which produces highly toxic milky sap that can cause severe skin irritation and injury to the eyes. The sap and fruits are dangerous, and the genus should be treated with caution.
Range
• Hippomane is native to tropical regions of the Americas, particularly the Caribbean, Central America, and parts of South America. The best-known species, Hippomane mancinella, occurs in coastal areas of Mexico and the Caribbean. The genus is associated with the tropical Americas, including the broader region around Zihuatanejo, Guerrero, and surrounding areas.
Habitat
• Species of Hippomane occur in tropical coastal environments and other warm habitats. The manchineel tree is especially associated with beaches, coastal scrub, mangrove margins, and tropical dry forests, where it tolerates salty winds and sandy soils. Habitat preferences vary among species, and the genus is notable for its toxic latex.