A keystone species of Panamanian forests, D. oleifera fruits and seeds are a crucial food source for rainforest animals. (IMAGE)

Cary Institute of Ecosystem Studies

A keystone species of Panamanian forests, D. oleifera fruits and seeds are a crucial food source for rainforest animals.

Caption

Also known as the eboe, choibá, tonka bean or almendro, Dipteryx oleifera is native to Honduras, Nicaragua, Costa Rica, Panama, Colombia, and Ecuador. Its hard wood is used in construction, and it produces almond-flavored seeds that are edible and sold in local markets. A keystone species of Panamanian forests, D. oleifera fruits and seeds are a crucial food source for rainforest mammals such as agouti during the dry season.

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Evan Gora / Cary Institute of Ecosystem Studies

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