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Adansonia digitata

Adansonia digitata

Status
Not Evaluated

IUCN conservation assessment category

Habitat
deciduous woodlands, tropical rainforest canopies, and fertile alluvial valleys

Primary ecological niche & biome

Diet
C3 autotrophic photosynthesis, deep root mineral absorption, and carbon sequestration

Dietary type and primary food source

Activity
deciduous summer foliage, vernal flowering, and seasonal seed dispersal

Diurnal, nocturnal, or active patterns

Scientific Summary

GBIF Taxonomic Backbone & Wikipedia Registry Profile

Adansonia digitata, the African baobab, is the most widespread tree species of the genus Adansonia, the baobabs, and is native to the African continent and the southern Arabian Peninsula (Yemen, Oman). These are long-lived pachycauls; radiocarbon dating has shown at least one individual to be 1,275 years old. They are typically found in dry, hot savannas of sub-Saharan Africa, where they dominate the landscape and reveal the presence of a watercourse from afar. They have traditionally been valued as sources of food, water, health remedies or places of shelter and are a key food source for many animals. They are steeped in legend and superstition. In recent years, many of the largest, oldest trees have died, for unknown reasons. Other common names for the baobab include monkey-bread tree, upside-down tree, and cream of tartar tree.
Biology & Conservation

Ecologically, the conservation status of Adansonia digitata is officially designated as Not Evaluated. Current field registries estimate a global population composed of an unquantified number of individuals, making habitat preservation critical to maintaining their wild populations.

It is typically endemic to deciduous woodlands, tropical rainforest canopies, and fertile alluvial valleys, showing great physiological synergy with its surroundings. In terms of dietary preferences, it relies primarily on a diet of c3 autotrophic photosynthesis, deep root mineral absorption, and carbon sequestration. It exhibits specialized adaptations centered around a deciduous summer foliage, vernal flowering, and seasonal seed dispersal activity pattern, optimizing its energy conservation and interactions within its native ecosystem. The species has a typical natural lifespan of approximately 150 years, allowing it to adapt and mature through structured generational cycles.

Ongoing biological monitoring and ecological advocacy emphasize the importance of protecting this species. The stability of its food chain and the prevention of fragmentation in its primary range are vital for the continued survival of Adansonia digitata.

Energy & Activity Profile
Habitat & Adaptation Index
Quick Facts
Native RangeGlobal
Habitat Rangedeciduous woodlands, tropical rainforest canopies, and fertile alluvial valleys
Lifespan150 Yrs
StatusData Deficient
ScientificAdansonia digitata
Registry Info
Lifespan150 years
KingdomPlantae
FamilyMalvaceae