The African plant database by name is a curated digital resource designed to help researchers, conservationists, and enthusiasts locate detailed botanical records linked to Latin and common names. Users can explore species profiles, distribution maps, and ethnobotanical notes in one searchable interface focused on African flora.
Whether you are verifying a scientific citation or identifying a plant in the field, this database organizes complex taxonomic and ecological data into a clear, name-driven experience that supports both learning and fieldwork.
| Scientific Name | Common Name | Family | Native Region | Conservation Status |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Adansonia digitata | Baobab | Malvaceae | Sub-Saharan Africa | Least Concern |
| Aloe perryi | Socotrine Aloe | Asphodelaceae | Horn of Africa | Least Concern |
| Brachystegia spiciformis | Msasa | Fabaceae | Southern and East Africa | Least Concern |
| Euclea divinorum | Forest Guarri | Ericales | Eastern and Southern Africa | Least Concern |
| Sclerocarya birrea | Marula | Anacardiaceae | Southern Africa | Least Concern |
Common and Local Names Across Regions
Each African plant database by name highlights local and common names that reflect cultural, linguistic, and geographic diversity. By aligning multiple vernacular labels with standardized botanical nomenclature, the resource supports community engagement and field communication.
These name layers help prevent misidentification, especially when a single species carries several regional labels that may differ across countries or ethnic groups.
Taxonomic Hierarchy and Classification Details
Taxonomic hierarchy is displayed for every entry in the African plant database by name, outlining order, family, genus, and species with authority citations. This structured view makes it easier to trace evolutionary relationships and compare morphological or ecological traits.
Where disputes exist in classification, the database records synonyms and accepted names, providing clarity for academic work and policy documents that rely on precise species identification.
Distribution, Ecology, and Conservation Data
Beyond names, the database includes distribution maps, habitat preferences, and key ecological interactions such as pollinators, seed dispersers, and associated vegetation types. This information is critical for understanding how environmental change may affect species presence.
Conservation status fields align with recognized global and regional red list criteria, enabling users to quickly assess vulnerability and prioritize protection efforts for threatened African plants.
Key Takeaways for Researchers and Field Users
- Use exact Latin names when precision is required for academic citations or regulatory submissions.
- Cross-reference local names with scientific labels to avoid misidentification in multilingual contexts.
- Leverage distribution and ecology fields to design field surveys and conservation priorities.
- Check the conservation status column to align fieldwork with legal protections and international guidelines.
FAQ
Reader questions
How do I find a species if I only know its local name?
The search interface supports queries by common and local names, returning matched scientific names along with metadata to confirm the correct taxon.
Can I filter results by conservation status or region?
Yes, filters allow you to narrow records by country, habitat type, and IUCN conservation category directly from the results table.
Are the distribution maps suitable for academic citation?
Maps include source references and date stamps, making them suitable for citation in research papers and conservation reports when proper attribution is provided.
Is the database regularly updated with new taxonomic revisions?
Curators apply accepted taxonomic updates periodically, logging changes such as reclassification, new combinations, and synonymy to keep the dataset current.