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|range_map = Mopane-Distribution-small.png
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'''''Colophospermum mopane''''', commonly called '''mopane''',<ref name=GRIN>{{GRIN | access-date = 15 December 2017}}</ref> '''mopani''',<ref name="database">{{cite web |title=Mopane {{!}} The Wood Database – Lumber Identification (Hardwood) |url=https://www.wood-database.com/mopane/ |access-date=25 June 2020}}</ref> '''balsam tree''',<ref name=GRIN/> '''butterfly tree''',<ref name=GRIN/> or '''turpentine tree''',<ref name=GRIN/> is a tree in the [[legume]] family ([[Fabaceae]]), that grows in hot, dry, low-lying areas, {{convert|200|to|1150|m|ft}} in elevation, in the far northern parts of [[Southern Africa]]. The tree only occurs in Africa and is the only [[species]] in [[genus]] '''''Colophospermum'''''. Its distinctive [[butterfly]]-shaped (bifoliate) leaf and thin [[legume|seed pod]] make it easy to identify. In terms of human use it is, together with [[Acacia erioloba|camel thorn]] and [[Combretum imberbe|leadwood]], one of the three regionally important [[firewood]] trees.
'''''Colophospermum mopane''''', commonly called '''mopane''',<ref name=GRIN>{{GRIN |id=11181 |access-date = 15 December 2017}}</ref> '''mopani''',<ref name="database">{{cite web |title=Mopane {{!}} The Wood Database – Lumber Identification (Hardwood) |url=https://www.wood-database.com/mopane/ |access-date=25 June 2020}}</ref> '''butterfly tree''',<ref name=GRIN/><ref name="CRC-quattrocchi1999"/> '''turpentine tree''',<ref name=GRIN/><ref name="CRC-quattrocchi1999"/> or '''balsam tree''',<ref name=GRIN/><ref name="CRC-quattrocchi1999"/> is a tree in the [[legume]] family ([[Fabaceae]]), that grows in hot, dry, low-lying areas, {{convert|200|to|1200|m|ft}} in elevation,{{sfnp|Timberlake|1995|p=7}} in parts of [[Southern Africa]]. The tree only occurs in Africa and is the only [[species]] in [[genus]] '''''Colophospermum'''''. Its distinctive [[butterfly]]-shaped (bifoliate) leaf and thin kidney-shaped/nearly semi-circular [[legume|seed pod]]<ref name="CABI2013"/>  make it easy to identify.
 
Though hard and dense and difficult to work with, it is valued timber in all sorts of construction due to its termite tolerance.{{Refn|name="seely1992-apud"}}<ref name="flower-etal2004"/><ref name="lemmens-etal2012"/> Together with [[Acacia erioloba|camel thorn]] and [[Combretum imberbe|leadwood]], one of the three regionally important [[firewood]] trees, due to the enduring heat,<ref name="mendelsohn&el_obeid2005"/> and these woods are also some of the preferred use culinarily for [[braai]].<ref name="biller2012"/>


==Range and habitat==
==Range and habitat==
[[File:Colophospermum mopane feuilles MHNT.jpg|thumb|left|The two papilionaceous leaflets are mirror images of one another, and are borne on a common petiole.<ref name="wyk1">{{cite book |last1=van Wyk |first1=Piet |title=Field Guide to the Trees of the Kruger National Park |date=1984 |publisher=Struik |location=Cape Town | page = 83 |isbn=0-86977-221-X}}</ref>]]
[[File:Colophospermum mopane feuilles MHNT.jpg|thumb|left|The two papilionaceous leaflets are mirror images of one another, and are borne on a common petiole.<ref name="van_wyk_p.1984"/>]]
It is native to [[Southern Africa]], including Southern [[Angola]], [[Zambia]], Southern [[Malawi]], [[Namibia]], [[Botswana]], [[Zimbabwe]], [[Mozambique]] and northern [[South Africa]]. It grows in [[alkali soil|alkaline]] (high lime content) soils which are shallow and not well drained. It also grows in alluvial soils (soil deposited by rivers). Where it occurs, it is often the dominant tree species, frequently forming homogeneous stands. In Northern South Africa and larger adjacent areas of Botswana and Zimbabwe, with the trees' height varying between {{convert|4|and|18|m|ft|abbr=on}}, they are often called "mopane scrub" ([[shrub]]). However, they can also sometimes grow taller in these areas, forming woodland. Further north the trees are taller and form tall woodlands referred to as cathedral mopane. This tree does not grow well outside hot, frost-free areas with summer rainfall.
 
The mopane is found on low-lying ground from {{convert|200|m|ft}} (Mozambique) to {{convert|1200|m|ft}} (Zimbabwe). {{sfnp|Timberlake|1995|p=7}}{{Refn|Another quote gives upper limit of 1000m (–1300m).{{sfnp|Lemmens|Louppe|Oteng-Amoako|2012|p=214}}}}


===Mopane ecoregions===
===Mopane ecoregions===
There are two [[ecoregion]]s where mopane is the predominant vegetation. The [[Angolan mopane woodlands]] are in southwestern Angola and northern Namibia, and the [[Zambezian and mopane woodlands]] extend over the lowlands of the [[Zambezi River]] and its tributaries in Botswana, Eswatini, Namibia, Zambia, Zimbabwe, Mozambique, Malawi, and South Africa.
Native to [[Southern Africa]], its habitat is divided crudely into two regions: the "Angola region", i.e., [[Angolan mopane woodlands]] [[ecoregion]], which includes Southern [[Angola]] and northwestern [[Namibia]], and the "Zambezian region", i.e. the [[Zambezian and mopane woodlands]] ecoregion extending over the lowlands of the [[Zambezi River]] and its tributaries across the countries of [[Zambia]], Southern [[Malawi]], other parts of Namibia, [[Botswana]], [[Zimbabwe]], [[Mozambique]], [[Eswatini]]/Swaziland and northern [[South Africa]].<ref name="lemmens-etal2012"/><ref name="shorrocks&bates2015"/><ref name="huntley2023"/>
 
===Soil and morphology===
While it prefers slightly acidic deep clay soil that are {{linktext|friable}} and {{linktext|permeable}},{{sfnp|Lemmens|Louppe|Oteng-Amoako|2012|p=214}} it also grows in [[alkali soil|alkaline]] (high lime content) soils which are shallow and not well drained.{{sfnp|Lemmens|Louppe|Oteng-Amoako|2012|p=214}} It also grows in [[alluvial soil]]s (soil deposited by rivers).{{sfnp|Lemmens|Louppe|Oteng-Amoako|2012|p=214}} Where it occurs, it is often the dominant tree species, frequently forming homogeneous stands.{{Refn|Shorrocks & Bates (2015): "The [southern African] 'tree and shrub' savannahs are characterised by the dominance of the mopane tree."; "Here [in the Zambezian region] the mopane tree is frequently the sole canopy species.."<ref name="shorrocks&bates2015"/>}}
 
Within the Zambezian region described above, the trees' height varying considerably, and larger, single-stemmed trees of {{convert|10|to|15|m|ft|abbr=on}} are found in open savannah woodlands on the (sandy) alluvial soil, forming [[Canopy (botany)|canopy]] woodlands, and even reaching 18m in height for the so-called "cathedral mopane" of Zambia.<ref name="shorrocks&bates2015"/><ref name="scholtz&scholtz&de_klerk2021"/> The same tree is also found stunted as (multi-stemmed<ref name="teshirogi2010"/><ref name="shorrocks&bates2015"/>)  [[shrub]]bery about {{convert|1|to|2|or|3|m|ft|abbr=on}} in clayey soil<ref name="scholtz&scholtz&de_klerk2021"/>{{Refn|Thomas & Shaw (1991),<ref name="thomas&shaw1991"/> citing Wellington (1955).}} or impermeable alkaline soil.<ref name="shorrocks&bates2015"/> Thus water or drainage seems to be a cause factor for stunting, though other causes have been hypothesized.<ref name="teshirogi2010"/> These stunted growths are sometimes called "mopane scrub" (for shrub).<ref name="thomas&shaw1991"/><ref name="CABI2013"/> The shrubs will not transition into tall woods.<ref name="thomas&shaw1991"/>
 
This tree will not grow well outside hot, mostly frost-free areas{{Refn|group="lower-alpha"|Though it can survive light frost.<ref name="makhado-etal2014"/>}} with low to moderate rainfall (as low as 100mm per year,<ref name="CABI2013"/> or averaging 400–500mm per year<ref name="scholtz&scholtz&de_klerk2021"/>).{{Refn|group="lower-alpha"|Rainfall over 800 mm will limit its growth.<ref name="makhado-etal2014"/>}}<ref name="makhado-etal2014"/><ref name="CABI2013"/>


==Uses==
==Uses==
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| caption2 = A large multi-stemmed tree with [[sociable weaver]] nests, and a shrub browsed on by goats, both in Namibia
| caption2 = A large multi-stemmed tree with [[sociable weaver]] nests, and a shrub browsed on by goats, both in Namibia
}}
}}
Mopane wood is one of southern Africa's heaviest, with a [[density]] of {{val|1.075|u=g/cm3}} when completely dry, and is difficult to work because of its hardness.<ref>[http://www.wood-database.com/lumber-identification/hardwoods/mopane/ The Wood Database] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160715173223/http://www.wood-database.com/lumber-identification/hardwoods/mopane/ |date=15 July 2016 }} Mopane. Retrieved 24 June 2013.</ref> However, this also makes it [[termite]] resistant. For this reason it has long been used for building houses and fences, as railway sleepers and as [[mining|pit props]]. The termite-resistance and rich, reddish colouring also make it popular for flooring. Outside Africa, mopane is gaining popularity as a heavy, decorative wood, its uses including aquarium ornaments, bases for lamps or sculptures, and garden accents.
Mopane wood is one of southern Africa's heaviest, with an average [[density]] range of {{convert|0.990|to|1.230|g/cm3|lb/cuft|abbr=on}} at 12% moisture.{{sfnp|Lemmens|Louppe|Oteng-Amoako|2012|p=212}}{{Refn|Various sources quote variuos figures. Meier's ''Wood Database'' gives "average dried weight" as 1075 kg/m<sup>3</sup> or 67.11 lb/cu.ft., close to the lower end of the range. A different source gives 1,200 kg/m<sup>3</sup>, citing Goldsmith & Carter (1981).<ref name="flower-etal2004"/> which is about 75 lb./cu. ft., which (after [[rounding|rounding down]]) matches  the "76 (73–84) lb./cu. ft" air dry quoted elsewhere,<ref name="kromhout1967"/> and these are close to the high end of the range.}} and is difficult to work because of its hardness.<ref name="kromhout1967"/><ref name="meier2016">Meier, Eric (2016) ''[http://www.wood-database.com/lumber-identification/hardwoods/mopane/ The Wood Database]''{{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160715173223/http://www.wood-database.com/lumber-identification/hardwoods/mopane/ |date=15 July 2016 }} Mopane. Retrieved 24 June 2013.</ref> However it is also [[termite]] resistant making it one of the most preferred local timbers for construction,{{Refn|name="seely1992-apud"|Seely [et al.](1992), p. 33<ref name="cunningham&hubbard&kinahan&kreike&seely&stuart-williams&marsh"/> apud {{harvp|Hangula|1998|p=13}}}} and for this reason it has long been used for building houses and fences, as railway sleepers and as [[mining|pit props]].<ref name="flower-etal2004"/><ref name="lemmens-etal2012"/> The termite-resistance and rich, reddish colouring<ref name="kromhout1967"/> also make it popular for [[parquet]] flooring.<ref name="flower-etal2004"/> Outside Africa, mopane is gaining popularity as a heavy, decorative wood, its uses including [[aquarium]] bogwood ornaments,<ref name="verhoef-verhallen2001"/> similarly as [[driftwood]] decor for [[terrarium]]s or gardens,<ref name="newell2024"/> or  bases for lamps or sculptures.


It is also increasingly being used in the construction of musical instruments, particularly [[woodwind instruments|woodwind]]. Suitable quality African blackwood (''[[Dalbergia melanoxylon]]''), traditionally used for [[clarinet]]s, is becoming harder to find. Mopane is fairly oily, seasons very well with few splits or shakes, and produces instruments of a warm, rich tone.<ref>[http://www.prosono.co.za/en/woods-for-woodwinds.shtml Prosono International] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20091122003424/http://www.prosono.co.za/en/woods-for-woodwinds.shtml |date=22 November 2009 }} Woods for woodwinds. Retrieved 23 April 2010.</ref> Clarinets made of mopane are offered by the manufacturers [[Schwenk & Seggelke]], [[Herbert Wurlitzer|Wurlitzer]], [[F. Arthur Uebel]] and [[Buffet Crampon]].
It is also increasingly being used in the construction of musical instruments, particularly [[woodwind instruments|woodwind]]. Suitable quality African blackwood (''[[Dalbergia melanoxylon]]''), traditionally used for [[clarinet]]s, is becoming harder to find. Mopane is fairly oily, seasons very well with few splits or shakes, and produces instruments of a warm, rich tone.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.prosono.co.za/en/woods-for-woodwinds.shtml |url-status=dead |title=Woods for woodwinds |website=Prosono International |date=22 November 2009 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20091122003424/http://www.prosono.co.za/en/woods-for-woodwinds.shtml |archive-date=2009-11-22 |accessdate=2010-04-23}}</ref> Clarinets made of mopane are offered by the manufacturers [[Schwenk & Seggelke]], [[Herbert Wurlitzer|Wurlitzer]], [[F. Arthur Uebel]] and [[Buffet Crampon]].


Mopane twigs have been traditionally used as tooth brushes, the bark to make twine and for [[Tanning (leather)|tanning]] leather, and the leaves for healing wounds. The wood is also used to make charcoal and for [[braai]] wood.
Mopane twigs been traditionally used as a sort of [[tooth brush]] (chewing stick to clean teeth<ref name="van_wyck&gericke2000"/>{{Refn|Mojeremane and Lumbile (2005)<ref name="mojeremane&lumbile2005"/> apud Cheikhyoussef et al. (2023).<ref name="cheikhyoussef&mumbengegwi&maroyi2023"/>}}), and the leaves for [[folk remedy]] in healing the wound after [[rite of passage|ritual]] extraction of teeth.{{Refn|Malan & Owen-Smith (1974) apud van_Wyck&Gericke (2000)<ref name="van_wyck&gericke2000"/> Also re-cited by Cheikhyoussef et al. (2023).<ref name="cheikhyoussef&mumbengegwi&maroyi2023"/>}} Various parts of the tree (seed, leaf, bark, root) are used in the [[traditional medicine]] of Southern African for a wide range of symptoms.<ref>{{harvp|Cheikhyoussef|Mumbengegwi|Maroyi|2023}}: Table 2. Traditional uses of Colophospermum mopane in Southern Africa</ref><ref name="CABI2013"/>


The tree is a major food source for the mopane worm, the [[caterpillar]] of the [[moth]] ''[[Gonimbrasia belina]]''. The caterpillars are rich in protein and are eaten by people. The mopane worm is rich in crude fats and contains vitamins and minerals, such as iron, calcium and phosphorus.<ref>{{Cite book|last=Potgieter|first=Martin|title=Edible insects in Africa: An introduction to finding, using and eating insects|publisher=Agromisa Foundation and CT|year=2015|isbn=978-90-8573-146-7|location=Wageningen|pages=34}}</ref> The tree also acts as a foodplant for the [[wild silk]] moth, ''[[Gonometa|Gonometa rufobrunnea]]''. Cocoons of the moth are harvested as wild [[silk]], to make cloth.
The bark to make twine or rope{{Refn|name="palmer&pitman-apud"}} and for [[Tanning (leather)|tanning]] leather,{{Refn|name="palmer&pitman-apud"|Palmer and Pitman (1972)<ref name="palmer&pitman1972"/> apud Cheikhyoussef et al. (2023).<ref name="cheikhyoussef&mumbengegwi&maroyi2023"/>}}{{Refn|Watt and Breyer-Brandwijk (1962).<ref name="flower-etal2004"/>}} The wood is also used to make charcoal{{Refn|Chidumayo (2000) apud Cheikhyoussef et al. (2023).<ref name="cheikhyoussef&mumbengegwi&maroyi2023"/>}} and for [[braai]] wood.<ref name="biller2012"/>


The Mopane worm creates employment and serves as a source of income for the majority of rural women. Harvesters sell it in villages, towns or to the trader<ref>{{Cite book|last=Potgieter|first=Martin|title=Edible insects in Africa An introduction to finding, using and eating insects|publisher=Agromisa Foundation and CTA|year=2015|isbn=978-90-8573-146-7|location=Wageningen|pages=34}}</ref>
===Food source===
The tree is a major food source for the mopane worm, the [[caterpillar]] of the [[moth]] ''[[Gonimbrasia belina]]''. The caterpillars are rich in protein and are eaten by people. The mopane worm is rich in crude fats and contains vitamins and minerals, such as iron, calcium and phosphorus.<ref name="potgieter2015"/><ref name="allotey-etal2004"/><ref name="lemmens-etal2012"/> Another edible caterpillar is that of ''[[Gynanisa maja]]'' (speckled emperor moth; {{lang|bem|chipumi}} in [[Bemba language|Bemba]]{{Refn|group="lower-alpha"|{{lang|beq|kawanatengo}} in [[Bembe language (Kibembe)|Kibembe]].<ref name="CRC-mitsuhashi2016-Gynanisa.maja"/>}}<ref name="CRC-mitsuhashi2016-Gynanisa.maja"/>) which also uses mopane as host tree.<ref name="allotey-etal2004"/><ref name="lemmens-etal2012"/>


The mopane tree also serves as a host plant for the mopane [[Psyllidae|psyllid]] ''[[Retroacizzia mopani]]''.<ref>Oppong, C.K., Addo-Bediako, A., Potgieter, M.J. & Wessels, D.C.J. 2009. Distribution of the eggs of the mopane psyllid ''Retroacizzia mopani'' (Hemiptera: Psyllidae) on the mopane tree. ''[[African Invertebrates]]'' '''50''' (1): 185–190. [http://www.africaninvertebrates.org.za/Oppong_etal_2009_50_1_430.aspx]</ref><ref>Oppong, C.K., Addo-Bediako, A., Potgieter, M.J. & Wessels, D.C.J. 2010. Nymphal behaviour and lerp construction in the mopane psyllid ''Retroacizzia mopani'' (Hemiptera: Psyllidae). ''[[African Invertebrates]]'' '''51''' (1): 201–205.{{cite web |url=http://www.africaninvertebrates.org.za/Oppong_etal_2010_51_1_467.aspx |title=Archived copy |access-date=3 June 2010 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100624011858/http://www.africaninvertebrates.org.za/Oppong_etal_2010_51_1_467.aspx |archive-date=24 June 2010 }}</ref>
And when infested with the "mopane fly"<ref name="allotey-etal2004"/> or "mopane [[Psyllidae|psyllid]]" (''[[wikidata:Retroacizzia mopanei|Retroacizzia mopani]]'' {{smallcaps|syn.}} ''[[Arytaina]] mopani''{{Refn|Spelt "Arytaina mopane".<ref name="allotey-etal2004"/>}} ) that feeds on the tree, the tree produces edible wax-like gums on its leaves called "mopane manna" which are collected and eaten by humans and monkeys.<ref name="lemmens-etal2012"/><ref name="oppong-etal2009"/><ref name="oppong-etal2010"/>
 
The tree also acts as a foodplant for the [[wild silk]] moth, ''[[Gonometa|Gonometa rufobrunnea]]''. Cocoons of the moth are harvested as wild [[silk]], to make cloth.<ref name="allotey-etal2004"/>{{sfnp|Lemmens|Louppe|Oteng-Amoako|2012|p=212}}
 
The Mopane worm creates employment and serves as a source of income for the majority of rural women. Harvesters sell it in villages, towns or to the trader.<ref name="potgieter2015">{{Cite book|last=Potgieter |first=Martin J. |author-link=<!--Martin J. Potgieter -->|title=Edible insects in Africa An introduction to finding, using and eating insects |location=Wageningen, Netherlands |publisher=Agromisa Foundation and CTA |year=2015 |url=https://www.echocommunity.org/resources/b3350fa1-e1f3-4746-8f8e-72d1370c537f |page=34 |isbn=978-90-8573-146-7 }}</ref>
 
The tree is also considered an important food resource for [[animal husbandry]] ([[goat herding]]), as goats can be allowed to browse on the tree's leaves (cf. fig. above).<ref name="teshirogi2010"/> They are also browsed by [[cattle]] and by [[game animals]] such as [[elephant]]s, [[giraffe]]s, [[water buffalo]]s and [[antelope]]s in [[game farm]]s and [[nature reserve]]s.{{Refn|name="palmer&pitman-apud"}}


==Etymology==
==Etymology==
''Colophospermum'' is Latinised Greek for "oily seed", in reference to the [[resin]]ous [[seed]] (i.e. ''spermum'') which has a [[turpentine]] smell. [[Colophon (city)|Colophon]] was the birthplace of [[Homer]] in [[Ionia]], and was famous for its [[rosin]], a substance obtained from turpentine or the gummy exudate of some trees.<ref>A reference to the species' resinous seed: 'Origins and Meanings of Names of South African Plant Genera' – W.P.U. Jackson (1990)</ref> The species name ''mopane'' is taken from the local name for the tree.
The genus name ''Colophospermum'' is a compound from Greek {{translit|el|kolophon[ios]}}{{Refn|group="lower-alpha"|Quattrocchi lists {{translit|el|kolophonios, kolophonion, kolophonia}} as "of or from Colophon". Jackson notes Colophon producing rosin too, but additionally glosses {{translit|el|kolophon}} literally as "summit, end".}} "resin" + Latin ''spermum'' "seed". The former derives from [[Colophon (city)|Colophon]]", which was the birthplace of [[Homer]] in [[Ionia]], famous for its [[rosin]], and is a reference to the seed's [[aromaticity|aromatic]] (turpentine-smelling) component.<ref name="jackson1990"/><ref name="CRC-quattrocchi1999"/>
 
The species name ''mopane'' is from its common name in [[Bantu language]]s for the tree throughout most of its range.<ref name="CRC-quattrocchi1999"/><ref name="huntley2023"/> Thus the nomenclature, starting with areas in or around South Africa are: {{lang|nso|mohlanare, mopane}} in [[Northern Sotho]]/Sepedi (northern [[Transvaal (province)|Transvaal]], current [[Limpopo]] province), {{lang|tn|mophane, mopane}} in [[Tswana language|Tsuwana]] (western Transvaal, northern [[Cape Province|Cape]], Botswana) but {{lang|ts|nxanatsi}} in [[Tsonga language|Tsonga]] (eastern Transvaal). It is known as {{lang|ny|mopane, tsanya}} in [[Chichewa language|Chichewa]] (Malawi), {{lang|loz|mopani, mupane}} in [[Lozi language|Lozi]] (fmr. [[Barotseland]], western Zambia), {{lang|mhw|mupanyi}} in [[Thimbukushu language|Thimbukushu]] (Namibia), {{lang|hz|omutati}} in [[Herero language|Herero]] (Namibia, Botswana), {{lang|kj|omufiadi}} in [[Ovambo language|Ovambo]] (southern Angola, northern Namibia).<ref>{{harvp|Cheikhyoussef|Mumbengegwi|Maroyi|2023}}: Table 1. Vernacular names of Colophospermum mopame</ref><ref name="CRC-quattrocchi1999"/>
 
Also spelt '''''mupani''''', '''''mopani'''''.<ref name="huntley2023"/><ref name="mapaure1994"/> In Afrikaans it goes by {{lang|af|mopanie}} or {{lang|af|mopaniehout}} "mopanie wood" or {{lang|af|terpentynboom}} "turpentine tree".<ref name="CRC-quattrocchi1999"/> It is called {{lang|sn|musharu}} in [[Shona language|Shona]] ([[Save River (Africa)|Sabi]] valley, Zimbabwe), ''chanate'' in southern Mozambique,<ref name="mapaure1994"/> and {{lang|umb|mutiati}} in [[Umbundu]] (Angola).<ref name="huntley2023"/><ref name="mapaure1994"/>


==Gallery==
==Gallery==
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File:Colophospermum mopane - Seeds.jpg|The fruit are pods containing one seed each
File:Colophospermum mopane - Seeds.jpg|The fruit are pods containing one seed each
File:Colophospermum mopane 50D 0484.jpg|[[Gonimbrasia belina|Mopane worms]], locally a staple food, consuming the foliage
File:Colophospermum mopane 50D 0484.jpg|[[Gonimbrasia belina|Mopane worms]], locally a staple food, consuming the foliage
File:Speckled Emperor (Gynanisa maja) caterpillar on mopane twig ... (51867253398).jpg|The likewise edible chipumi caterpillar of the [[Gynanisa maja|speckled emperor moth]], defoliating a sprig
File:Speckled Emperor (Gynanisa maja) caterpillar on mopane twig ... (51867253398).jpg|The likewise edible {{lang|bem|chipumi}} caterpillar of the [[Gynanisa maja|speckled emperor moth]], defoliating a sprig
File:Mopane_seed_and_leaves.JPG|Winter foliage and dry seed pods in Namibia
File:Mopane_seed_and_leaves.JPG|Winter foliage and dry seed pods in Namibia
</gallery>
</gallery>
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==See also==
==See also==
*[[List of Southern African indigenous trees]]
*[[List of Southern African indigenous trees]]
==Explanatory notes==
{{notelist}}


==References==
==References==
*{{Commons category-inline|Colophospermum mopane}}
*{{Commons category-inline|Colophospermum mopane}}
{{Reflist}}
{{Reflist|2|refs=
* Esterhuyse, N., Von Breitenbach, J. & Söhnge, H. 2001. ''Remarkable trees of South Africa''. Briza Publications, Pretoria.
<ref name="allotey-etal2004">{{Cite book |last1=Allotey |first1=Joseph |author1-link=<!--Joseph Allotey--> |last2=Teferra |first2=G. |author2-link=<!--G. Teferra--> |last3=Mpuchane |first3=S. |author3-link=<!--S. Mpuchane--> |last4=Ditlholgo |first4=M. |author4-link=<!--M. Ditlholgo--> |last5=Gashe |first5=B. A. |author5-link=<!--B. A. Gashe--> |last6=Slame |first6=B. A. |author6-link=<!--B. A. --> |chapter=Chapter 10: Mopane (''Colophospermum mopane'') as host for the development of the mopane worm, ''Imbrasia Belina'' Westwood, in Botswana |editor1-last=Flower |editor1-first=Charlotte |editor1-link=<!--Charlotte Flower-->|editor2-last=Wardell-Johnson |editor2-first=G. |editor2-link=<!--G. Wardell-Johnson--> |editor3-last=Jamieson |editor3-first=Andrew |editor3-link=<!--Andrew Jamieson (forestry)--> |title=Management of Mopane in Southern Africa: Proceedings of a Workshop Held at Ogongo Agricultural College, Northern Namibia, 26th to 29th November, 1996|location= |publisher=Namibia. Directorate of Forestry |year=2004 |chapter-url=https://books.google.com/books?id=V1MeAQAAIAAJ&q=flooring  |page=41<!--41ff--> |isbn=<!--0869765094, -->9780869765098}}</ref>
* [http://www.itc.nl/library/Papers_2005/phd/ferwerda.pdf Ferwerda, J.G.] (2005) Charting the quality of forage: measuring and mapping the variation of chemical components in foliage with hyperspectral remote sensing. Wageningen, Wageningen University, 2005. ITC Dissertation 126, 166 p.&nbsp;{{ISBN|90-8504-209-7}}.
 
<ref name="biller2012">{{cite encyclopedia|last=Biller |first=Hilary |author-link=<!--Hilary Biller--> |chapter=Cook's notes |title=Fuss-free Braais |location= |publisher=Penguin Random House South Africa |year=2012|url=https://books.google.com/books?id=IQlbDwAAQBAJ&pg=PT7 |page=PT7 |isbn=<!--1432301187, -->9781432301187 }}</ref>
 
<ref name="CABI2013">{{cite encyclopedia|author=CABI |author-link=<!--CABI -> ||editor-last=Praciak |editor-first=Andrew |editor-link=<!--Andrew Praciak-->|chapter=Colophospermum mopane (Kirk ex Benth.) J. Leonard / Mopane |title=The CABI Encyclopedia of Forest Trees |location= |publisher=CABI |year=2013 |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=cBf4AgAAQBAJ&pg=PA127 |pages=127–128|isbn=<!--1780642369, -->9781780642369 }}</ref>
 
<ref name="cheikhyoussef&mumbengegwi&maroyi2023">{{Cite book |last1=Cheikhyoussef |first1=Ahmad |author1-link=<!--Ahmad Cheikhyoussef--> |last2=Mumbengegwi |first2=David |author2-link=<!--David Mumbengegwi--> |last3=Maroyi |first3=Alfred |author3-link=<!--Alfred Maroyi--> |chapter=Chapter 9. Traditional Uses, Phytochemistry, and Pharmacology of Mopane (''Colophospermum mopane'') in Southern African Countries |editor1-last=Martinez |editor1-first=José L. |editor1-link=<!--José L. Martinez--> |editor2-last=Maroyi|editor2-first=Alfred |editor2-link=<!--Alfred Maroyi--> |editor3-last=Wagner |editor3-first=Marcelo L. |editor3-link=<!--Marcelo L. Wagner--> |title=Ethnobotany: From the Traditional to Ethnopharmacology|location= |publisher=CRC Press |year=2023 |chapter-url=https://books.google.com/books?id=AAqmEAAAQBAJ&pg=PT266  |page=<!--unpaginated--> |isbn=<!--1000839583, -->9781000839586}}</ref>
 
<ref name="CRC-quattrocchi1999">{{cite encyclopedia|last=Quattrocchi |first=Umberto |author-link=<!--Umberto Quattrocchi-->|chapter=Colophospermum mopane Kirk ex J. Léonard |title=CRC World Dictionary of Plant Names: Common Names, Scientific Names, Eponyms, Synonyms, and Etymology |volume=1 |location= |publisher=CRC Press |year=1999 |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=esMPU5DHEGgC&pg=PA587 |page=587 |isbn=<!--0849326753, -->9780849326752}}</ref>
 
{{void|<ref name="CRC-mitsuhashi2016-Gonimbrasia.belina">{{cite encyclopedia|last=Mitsuhashi |first=Jun |author-link=Jun Mitsuhashi |chapter=Gonimbrasia belina |title=Edible Insects of the World |location= |publisher=CRC Press |year=2016 |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=T5W_DQAAQBAJ&q=belina |pages=2012–2013|isbn=<!--1315350882, -->9781315350882}}</ref>
}}
<ref name="CRC-mitsuhashi2016-Gynanisa.maja">{{cite encyclopedia|last=Mitsuhashi |first=Jun |author-link=Jun Mitsuhashi |chapter=Gynanisa maja |title=Edible Insects of the World |location= |publisher=CRC Press |year=2016 |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=T5W_DQAAQBAJ&q=chipumi |pages=2012–2013|isbn=<!--1315350882, -->9781315350882}}</ref>
 
<ref name="cunningham&hubbard&kinahan&kreike&seely&stuart-williams&marsh">{{cite book|last1=Cunningham |first1=T. |author1-link=<!--Tony Cunningham--> |last2=Hubbard |first2=D. |author2-link=<!--Dianne Hubbard--> |last3=Kinahan |first3=John |author3-link=<!--John Kinahan--> |last4=Kreike|first4=E. |author4-link=<!--Emmanuel Kreike--> |last5=Seely |first5=M. |author5-link=<!--Mary Seely--> |last6=Stuart-Williams|first6=V. |author6-link=<!--Viv Stuart-Williams--> |last7=Marsh |first7=A.|author7-link=<!--Alan Marsh--> |title=Oshanas: sustaining people, environment and development in Central Owambo, Namibia |location=Windhoek, Namibia |publisher=[[Sine nomine|s.n.]] |date=1992 |url= |page=33 |isbn=9991670904}}</ref>
 
<ref name="flower-etal2004">{{Cite book |last1=Flower |first1=Charlotte |author1-link=<!--Charlotte Flower-->|last2=Wardell-Johnson |first2=G. |author2-link=<!--G. Wardell-Johnson-->|last3=Jamieson |first3=Andrew |author3-link=<!--Andrew Jamieson (forestry)-->|chapter=Introduction |editor1-last=Flower |editor1-first=Charlotte |editor1-link=<!--Charlotte Flower-->|editor2-last=Wardell-Johnson |editor2-first=G. |editor2-link=<!--G. Wardell-Johnson--> |editor3-last=Jamieson |editor3-first=Andrew |editor3-link=<!--Andrew Jamieson (forestry)--> |title=Management of Mopane in Southern Africa: Proceedings of a Workshop Held at Ogongo Agricultural College, Northern Namibia, 26th to 29th November, 1996|location= |publisher=Namibia. Directorate of Forestry |year=2004 |chapter-url=https://books.google.com/books?id=V1MeAQAAIAAJ&q=flooring |page=xviii |isbn=<!--0869765094, -->9780869765098}}</ref>
 
<ref name="huntley2023">{{cite encyclopedia|last=Huntley |first=Brian John |author-link=Brian John Huntley |chapter=15.1 Angolan Mopane Woodlands (Ecoregion 12) |title=Ecology of Angola: Terrestrial Biomes and Ecoregions |location= |publisher=Springer Nature |year=2023 |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=JpyyEAAAQBAJ&pg=PA341 |pages=340–341 and Fig. 15.1 |isbn=<!--303118923X, -->9783031189234}}</ref>
 
<ref name="jackson1990">{{cite encyclopedia|last=Jackson |first=William Peter Uprichard |author-link=<!--William Peter Uprichard Jackson--> |chapter=Colophospermum |title=Origins and Meanings of Names of South African Plant Genera |location= |publisher=University of Cape Town |year=1990 |chapter-url=https://books.google.com/books?id=154_AAAAYAAJ&q=Colophospermum |page=73 |isbn=<!--0799212849, -->9780799212846}}</ref>
 
<ref name="kromhout1967">{{cite journal|last=Kromhout |first=C. P. |author-link=<!--C. P. Kromhout--> |title=Twintig Transvaalse Houtsoorte |trans-title=Twenty Kinds of Transvaal Timbers |journal=Fauna and flora |number=18 |date=1967 |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=_fVJAAAAYAAJ&q=mopane |pages=15–17<!--3–30--> |lang=af,en}}</ref>
 
<ref name="lemmens-etal2012">{{Cite dictionary|last1=Lemmens|first1=R.H.M.J.|author1-link=<!--Ruijter H.M.J. Lemmens--> |last2=Louppe |first2=D. |author2-link=<!--Dominique Louppe-->|last3=Oteng-Amoako |first3=A.A. |author3-link=<!--Andrew Akwasi Oteng-Amoako--> |chapter=''Colophospermum mopane'' (Benth.) J. Léonard |title=Timbers 2 |location=Wageningen, Netherlands |publisher=PROTA |year=2012|chapter-url=https://books.google.com/books?id=4MpmAgAAQBAJ&pg=PA211 |page=211|isbn=<!--9290814950, -->9789290814955}}</ref>
 
<ref name="makhado-etal2014">{{citation|last1=Makhado |first1=Rudzani A. |author1-link=<!--Rudzani A. Makhado--> |collaboration=Mapaure, Isaac; Potgieter, Martin J.; Luus-Powell, Wilmien J.; Saidi, Amani T. |title=Factors influencing the adaptation and distribution of Colophospermum mopane in southern Africa's mopane savannas - A review |journal=Bothalia (Online) |volume=44 |number=1 |date=2014 |url=http://www.scielo.org.za/scielo.php?script=sci_arttext&pid=S0006-82412014000100002&lng=en&nrm=iso |pages=1–9 |doi=10.4102/ABC.V44I1.152|doi-access=free }}</ref>
 
<ref name="mapaure1994">{{cite journal|last=Mapaure |first=I. |author-link=<!--Isaac Mapaure--> |title=The distribution of Colophospermum mopane (Leguminosae-Caesalpinioideae) in Africa. |journal=Kirkia |volume=15 |number=1 |date=1994|url=https://books.google.com/books?id=pljUU0E0g5gC&q=mutiati |pages=1<!--1–5--> |lang=af,en}}</ref>
 
<ref name="mendelsohn&el_obeid2005">{{cite book |last1=Mendelsohn |first1=John M. |author1-link=<!--John M. Mendelsohn--> |last2=El Obeid |first2=Selma |author2-link=<!--Selma El Obeid--> |title=Forests and Woodlands of Namibia |location= |publisher=Namibia. Directorate of Forestry |year=2005 |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=6ZYfAQAAIAAJ&q=mopane+%22camel+thorn%22 |page=63 |isbn=<!--9991678034, -->9789991678030}}</ref>
 
<ref name="mojeremane&lumbile2005">{{cite journal|last1=Mojeremane |first1=W.|author1-link=<!--Witness Mojeremane-->|last2=Lumbile |first2=A. U. |author2-link=<!--Admus Uyapo Lumbile-->|title=The characteristics and economic values of Colophospermum mopane (Kirk ex Benth.) J. Léonard in Botswana |journal=Pakistan Journal of Biological Sciences |volume=8 |number=5 |date=2005 |url=<!--PREDATORY ALERT DO NOT LIST https://scialert.net/abstract/?doi=pjbs.2005.781.784^^> |pages=781–784 |doi=<!--PREDATORY ALERT 10.3923/pjbs.2005.781.784-->}}</ref>
 
<ref name="newell2024">{{cite encyclopedia|last=Newell |first=Ben |author-link=<!--Ben Newell--> |chapter=Mopane wood |title=Hello Tiny World: An Enchanting Journey into the World of Creating Terrariums |location= |publisher=Penguin |year=2024 |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=rRzYAAAAMAAJ&q=mopane |page=16 |isbn=<!--0593847679, -->9780593847671}}</ref>
 
<ref name="oppong-etal2009">{{citation|last1=Oppong |first1=C.K. |author1-link=<!--C.K. Oppong --> |collaboration=Addo-Bediako, A.; Potgieter, Martin J.; Wessels, D.C.J. |title=Distribution of the eggs of the mopane psyllid ''Retroacizzia mopani'' (Hemiptera: Psyllidae) on the mopane tree|journal=[[African Invertebrates]] |volume=50 |number=1 |date=2009 |url=http://www.africaninvertebrates.org.za/Oppong_etal_2009_50_1_430.aspx |pages=185–190}}</ref>
<ref name="oppong-etal2010">{{citation|last1=Oppong |first1=C.K. |author1-link=<!--C.K. Oppong --> |collaboration=Addo-Bediako, A.; Potgieter, Martin J.; Wessels, D.C.J. |title=Nymphal behaviour and lerp construction in the ''mopane psyllid Retroacizzia mopani'' (Hemiptera: Psyllidae) |journal=[[African Invertebrates]] |volume=51 |number=1 |date=2010 |url=http://www.africaninvertebrates.org.za/Oppong_etal_2010_51_1_467.aspx|pages=201–205 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100624011858/http://www.africaninvertebrates.org.za/Oppong_etal_2010_51_1_467.aspx |archive-date=24 June 2010 }}</ref>
 
<ref name="palmer&pitman1972">{{cite book |last1=Palmer |first1=Eve |author1-link=Eve Palmer |last2=Pitman |first2=Norah |author2-link=<!--Norah Pitman--> |title=Trees of Southern Africa, Covering All Known Indigenous Species in the Republic of South Africa, South-West Africa, Botswana, Lesotho and Swaziland |volume=1 |location=Cape Town |publisher=A. A. Balkema |year=1972 |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=5nHwAAAAMAAJ&q=mopane |pages=}}</ref>
 
<ref name="scholtz&scholtz&de_klerk2021">{{cite book |last1=Scholtz |first1=Clarke |author1-link=<!--Clarke Scholtz (zoologist)-->|last2=Scholtz |first2=Jenny |author2-link=<!--Jenny Scholtz-->|last3= de Klerk |first3=Hennie|author3-link=<!--Hennie de Klerk--> |chapter=7. Savanna Biome |title=Pollinators, Predators & Parasites |location= |publisher=Penguin Random House South Africa |year=2021 |chapter-url=https://books.google.com/books?id=vuUfEAAAQBAJ&pg=SA7-PA3 |at=Mopane Woodland |isbn=<!--1775846326, -->9781775846321 }}</ref>
 
<ref name="shorrocks&bates2015">{{Cite dictionary|last1=Shorrocks |first1=Bryan |author1-link=<!--Bryan Shorrocks--> |last2=Bates |first2=William |author2-link=<!--William Bates (zoologist)--> |chapter=Savannahs | title=The Biology of African Savannahslocation= |publisher=Oxford University Press |year=2015 |chapter-url=https://books.google.com/books?id=2NqSBQAAQBAJ&pg=PA19 |page=19 |isbn=<!--0198702701, -->9780198702702 }}</ref>
 
<ref name="teshirogi2010">{{cite journal|last=Teshirogi |first=Koki |author-link=<!--手代木功基--> |title=Influence of Geomorphology on the Physiognomy of Colophospermum mopane and its Effect on Browsing in Central Namibia |journal=African Study Monographs |number=Suppl.40 |date=March 2010 |url=https://repository.kulib.kyoto-u.ac.jp/dspace/bitstream/2433/96294/1/ASM_S_40_103.pdf |page=103<!--103–114-->}}</ref>
 
<ref name="thomas&shaw1991">{{Cite book |last1=Thomas |first1=David S. G. |author1-link=David Thomas (geographer) |last2=Shaw |first2=Paul A.  |author2-link=Paul A. Shaw |chapter=4. Climate, soils and vegetation of the Kalahari |title=The Kalahari Environment |location= |publisher=Cambridge University Press |year=1991 |chapter-url=https://books.google.com/books?id=mEgNfYvgEtUC&pg=PA105 |page=105 |isbn=<!--0521370809, -->9780521370806}}</ref>
 
<ref name="van_wyck&gericke2000">{{Cite dictionary|last1=van Wyk |first1=Ben-Erik |author1-link=Ben-Erik van Wyk|last2=Gericke |first2=Nigel |author2-link=<!--Nigel Gericke--> |chapter=''Colophospermum mopane'' (Fabaceae) -- MOPANE |title=People's Plants: A Guide to Useful Plants of Southern Africa |location=Pretoria, South Africa |publisher=Briza Publications |year=2000 |chapter-url=https://books.google.com/books?id=GPUfAQAAIAAJ&q=mopane+tooth |page=206 |isbn=<!--1875093192, -->9781875093199}}</ref>
 
<ref name="van_wyk_p.1984">{{cite book |last1=van Wyk |first1=Piet |author1-link=<!--Piet van Wyk--> |title=Field Guide to the Trees of the Kruger National Park |edition=5|location=Cape Town |publisher=Struik |date=2008 |orig-date=1984url=https://books.google.com/books?id=7SBFAQAAIAAJ&mirror |pages=83–84 |isbn=<!--1770077596, -->9781770077591}}</ref>
 
<ref name="verhoef-verhallen2001">{{cite encyclopedia|last=Verhoef-Verhallen |first=Esther J. J.  |author-link=<!--Esther J. J. Verhoef-Verhallen--> |chapter=Bogwood |title=The Complete Encyclopedia of Tropical Fish |location= |publisher=Hackberry Press |year=2001 |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=rRzYAAAAMAAJ&q=mopane |page=16 |isbn=<!--1931040060, -->9781931040068}}</ref>
}}
 
===Bibliography===
{{refbegin}}
{{void|
* Esterhuyse, N.; Von Breitenbach, J.; Söhnge, H. (2001). ''Remarkable trees of South Africa''. Briza Publications, Pretoria.
* Ferwerda, J.G.(2005) [http://www.itc.nl/library/Papers_2005/phd/ferwerda.pdf Charting the quality of forage: measuring and mapping the variation of chemical components in foliage with hyperspectral remote sensing]. Wageningen, Wageningen University, 2005. ITC Dissertation 126, 166 p.&nbsp;{{ISBN|90-8504-209-7}}.
}}
* {{cite book|last=Hangula |first=Lazarus |author-link=Lazarus Hangula |title=Economy, Ecology, Aesthetics: A Study of Indigenous Trees Use in Former Owamboland |location= |publisher=University of Namibia, Multi-Disciplinary Research Centre, Social Sciences Division |year=1998 |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=tYIwAQAAIAAJ&q=mopane |page=}}
 
* {{cite book|last=Timberlake |first=Jonathan |author-link=<!--Jonathan Timberlake--> |title=Colophospermum Mopane: Annotated Bibliography and Review |location=Harare, Zinbabwe |publisher=(Zimbabwe) Forestry Commission Centre |year=1995 |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=wG12AzmiYs0C&q= |page= |isbn=<!--0797414207, -->9780797414204}}
{{refend}}


{{Taxonbar|from1=Q641513|from2=Q17422991}}
{{Taxonbar|from1=Q641513|from2=Q17422991}}

Revision as of 01:17, 19 June 2025

Template:Short description Script error: No such module "other uses". Template:Use dmy dates Template:Speciesbox Colophospermum mopane, commonly called mopane,[1] mopani,[2] butterfly tree,[1][3] turpentine tree,[1][3] or balsam tree,[1][3] is a tree in the legume family (Fabaceae), that grows in hot, dry, low-lying areas, Script error: No such module "convert". in elevation,Template:Sfnp in parts of Southern Africa. The tree only occurs in Africa and is the only species in genus Colophospermum. Its distinctive butterfly-shaped (bifoliate) leaf and thin kidney-shaped/nearly semi-circular seed pod[4] make it easy to identify.

Though hard and dense and difficult to work with, it is valued timber in all sorts of construction due to its termite tolerance.Template:Refn[5][6] Together with camel thorn and leadwood, one of the three regionally important firewood trees, due to the enduring heat,[7] and these woods are also some of the preferred use culinarily for braai.[8]

Range and habitat

File:Colophospermum mopane feuilles MHNT.jpg
The two papilionaceous leaflets are mirror images of one another, and are borne on a common petiole.[9]

The mopane is found on low-lying ground from Script error: No such module "convert". (Mozambique) to Script error: No such module "convert". (Zimbabwe). Template:SfnpTemplate:Refn

Mopane ecoregions

Native to Southern Africa, its habitat is divided crudely into two regions: the "Angola region", i.e., Angolan mopane woodlands ecoregion, which includes Southern Angola and northwestern Namibia, and the "Zambezian region", i.e. the Zambezian and mopane woodlands ecoregion extending over the lowlands of the Zambezi River and its tributaries across the countries of Zambia, Southern Malawi, other parts of Namibia, Botswana, Zimbabwe, Mozambique, Eswatini/Swaziland and northern South Africa.[6][10][11]

Soil and morphology

While it prefers slightly acidic deep clay soil that are Template:Linktext and Template:Linktext,Template:Sfnp it also grows in alkaline (high lime content) soils which are shallow and not well drained.Template:Sfnp It also grows in alluvial soils (soil deposited by rivers).Template:Sfnp Where it occurs, it is often the dominant tree species, frequently forming homogeneous stands.Template:Refn

Within the Zambezian region described above, the trees' height varying considerably, and larger, single-stemmed trees of Script error: No such module "convert". are found in open savannah woodlands on the (sandy) alluvial soil, forming canopy woodlands, and even reaching 18m in height for the so-called "cathedral mopane" of Zambia.[10][12] The same tree is also found stunted as (multi-stemmed[13][10]) shrubbery about Script error: No such module "convert". in clayey soil[12]Template:Refn or impermeable alkaline soil.[10] Thus water or drainage seems to be a cause factor for stunting, though other causes have been hypothesized.[13] These stunted growths are sometimes called "mopane scrub" (for shrub).[14][4] The shrubs will not transition into tall woods.[14]

This tree will not grow well outside hot, mostly frost-free areasTemplate:Refn with low to moderate rainfall (as low as 100mm per year,[4] or averaging 400–500mm per year[12]).Template:Refn[15][4]

Uses

Script error: No such module "Multiple image". Mopane wood is one of southern Africa's heaviest, with an average density range of Script error: No such module "convert". at 12% moisture.Template:SfnpTemplate:Refn and is difficult to work because of its hardness.[16][17] However it is also termite resistant making it one of the most preferred local timbers for construction,Template:Refn and for this reason it has long been used for building houses and fences, as railway sleepers and as pit props.[5][6] The termite-resistance and rich, reddish colouring[16] also make it popular for parquet flooring.[5] Outside Africa, mopane is gaining popularity as a heavy, decorative wood, its uses including aquarium bogwood ornaments,[18] similarly as driftwood decor for terrariums or gardens,[19] or bases for lamps or sculptures.

It is also increasingly being used in the construction of musical instruments, particularly woodwind. Suitable quality African blackwood (Dalbergia melanoxylon), traditionally used for clarinets, is becoming harder to find. Mopane is fairly oily, seasons very well with few splits or shakes, and produces instruments of a warm, rich tone.[20] Clarinets made of mopane are offered by the manufacturers Schwenk & Seggelke, Wurlitzer, F. Arthur Uebel and Buffet Crampon.

Mopane twigs been traditionally used as a sort of tooth brush (chewing stick to clean teeth[21]Template:Refn), and the leaves for folk remedy in healing the wound after ritual extraction of teeth.Template:Refn Various parts of the tree (seed, leaf, bark, root) are used in the traditional medicine of Southern African for a wide range of symptoms.[22][4]

The bark to make twine or ropeTemplate:Refn and for tanning leather,Template:RefnTemplate:Refn The wood is also used to make charcoalTemplate:Refn and for braai wood.[8]

Food source

The tree is a major food source for the mopane worm, the caterpillar of the moth Gonimbrasia belina. The caterpillars are rich in protein and are eaten by people. The mopane worm is rich in crude fats and contains vitamins and minerals, such as iron, calcium and phosphorus.[23][24][6] Another edible caterpillar is that of Gynanisa maja (speckled emperor moth; Script error: No such module "Lang". in BembaTemplate:Refn[25]) which also uses mopane as host tree.[24][6]

And when infested with the "mopane fly"[24] or "mopane psyllid" (Retroacizzia mopani <templatestyles src="smallcaps/styles.css"/>syn. Arytaina mopaniTemplate:Refn ) that feeds on the tree, the tree produces edible wax-like gums on its leaves called "mopane manna" which are collected and eaten by humans and monkeys.[6][26][27]

The tree also acts as a foodplant for the wild silk moth, Gonometa rufobrunnea. Cocoons of the moth are harvested as wild silk, to make cloth.[24]Template:Sfnp

The Mopane worm creates employment and serves as a source of income for the majority of rural women. Harvesters sell it in villages, towns or to the trader.[23]

The tree is also considered an important food resource for animal husbandry (goat herding), as goats can be allowed to browse on the tree's leaves (cf. fig. above).[13] They are also browsed by cattle and by game animals such as elephants, giraffes, water buffalos and antelopes in game farms and nature reserves.Template:Refn

Etymology

The genus name Colophospermum is a compound from Greek Template:TranslitTemplate:Refn "resin" + Latin spermum "seed". The former derives from Colophon", which was the birthplace of Homer in Ionia, famous for its rosin, and is a reference to the seed's aromatic (turpentine-smelling) component.[28][3]

The species name mopane is from its common name in Bantu languages for the tree throughout most of its range.[3][11] Thus the nomenclature, starting with areas in or around South Africa are: Script error: No such module "Lang". in Northern Sotho/Sepedi (northern Transvaal, current Limpopo province), Script error: No such module "Lang". in Tsuwana (western Transvaal, northern Cape, Botswana) but Script error: No such module "Lang". in Tsonga (eastern Transvaal). It is known as Script error: No such module "Lang". in Chichewa (Malawi), Script error: No such module "Lang". in Lozi (fmr. Barotseland, western Zambia), Script error: No such module "Lang". in Thimbukushu (Namibia), Script error: No such module "Lang". in Herero (Namibia, Botswana), Script error: No such module "Lang". in Ovambo (southern Angola, northern Namibia).[29][3]

Also spelt mupani, mopani.[11][30] In Afrikaans it goes by Script error: No such module "Lang". or Script error: No such module "Lang". "mopanie wood" or Script error: No such module "Lang". "turpentine tree".[3] It is called Script error: No such module "Lang". in Shona (Sabi valley, Zimbabwe), chanate in southern Mozambique,[30] and Script error: No such module "Lang". in Umbundu (Angola).[11][30]

Gallery

See also

Explanatory notes

Template:Notelist

References

<templatestyles src="Reflist/styles.css" />

  1. ↑ a b c d Template:GRIN
  2. ↑ Script error: No such module "citation/CS1".
  3. ↑ a b c d e f g Script error: No such module "citation/CS1".
  4. ↑ a b c d e Script error: No such module "citation/CS1".
  5. ↑ a b c Script error: No such module "citation/CS1".
  6. ↑ a b c d e f Script error: No such module "citation/CS1".
  7. ↑ Script error: No such module "citation/CS1".
  8. ↑ a b Script error: No such module "citation/CS1".
  9. ↑ Script error: No such module "citation/CS1".
  10. ↑ a b c d Script error: No such module "citation/CS1".
  11. ↑ a b c d Script error: No such module "citation/CS1".
  12. ↑ a b c Script error: No such module "citation/CS1".
  13. ↑ a b c Script error: No such module "Citation/CS1".
  14. ↑ a b Script error: No such module "citation/CS1".
  15. ↑ Script error: No such module "citation/CS1".
  16. ↑ a b Script error: No such module "Citation/CS1".
  17. ↑ Meier, Eric (2016) The Wood DatabaseTemplate:Webarchive Mopane. Retrieved 24 June 2013.
  18. ↑ Script error: No such module "citation/CS1".
  19. ↑ Script error: No such module "citation/CS1".
  20. ↑ Script error: No such module "citation/CS1".
  21. ↑ Script error: No such module "citation/CS1".
  22. ↑ Template:Harvp: Table 2. Traditional uses of Colophospermum mopane in Southern Africa
  23. ↑ a b Script error: No such module "citation/CS1".
  24. ↑ a b c d Script error: No such module "citation/CS1".
  25. ↑ Script error: No such module "citation/CS1".
  26. ↑ Script error: No such module "citation/CS1".
  27. ↑ Script error: No such module "citation/CS1".
  28. ↑ Script error: No such module "citation/CS1".
  29. ↑ Template:Harvp: Table 1. Vernacular names of Colophospermum mopame
  30. ↑ a b c Script error: No such module "Citation/CS1".

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Cite error: <ref> tag with name "cunningham&hubbard&kinahan&kreike&seely&stuart-williams&marsh" defined in <references> is not used in prior text.
Cite error: <ref> tag with name "mojeremane&lumbile2005" defined in <references> is not used in prior text.

Cite error: <ref> tag with name "palmer&pitman1972" defined in <references> is not used in prior text.

Script error: No such module "Check for unknown parameters".

Bibliography

<templatestyles src="Refbegin/styles.css" />

  • Script error: No such module "citation/CS1".
  • Script error: No such module "citation/CS1".

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