Mauritia carana

Abstract

This medium sized relative of Mauritia flexuosa, the tallest palm in Amazonia, also has scaly, edible fruits. But unlike its larger cousin, the fronds of Mauritia carana are sought after for thatch, especially in the Rio Negro watershed. Known as caraná in Brazil, this palm has a more restricted distribution than M. flexuosa since it is confined to sandy soils in black and clear water river basins. Caraná fronds are a highly desirable commodity in the Upper Rio Negro and overharvesting has led to a diminished supply. In some parts of that basin, indigenous peoples plant the palm in their fields to increase the availability of fronds.