Hobbies And Interests
Brazil Nut Tree
The Brazil nut tree grows up to 200 feet tall. The nuts grow inside large pods called "monkey pots" because monkeys often clear out the pod off seeds after it has fallen and opened. The pods can weigh up to five lbs., making them a hazard to those on the ground below the trees. Brazil nut tree pods are a favorite food of the agouti, a large rodent. Agoutis gnaw open the pods and carry off the seeds; these rodents serve as the method by which the Brazil nut tree spreads. The Brazil nut tree has a complex germination process which prevents it from producing fruit in a domestic or cleared area. Strangler fig vines grow easily on Brazil nut trees; the strangler figs prevent the tree from absorbing nutrients, eventually causing it to die.
Giant Water Lilies
Giant water lilies, or Amazon water lilies can grow up to seven feet in diameter. The large lily pads have a raised edge for stability which has small notches in order to prevent the water lily from filling up with water. Giant water lilies only bloom at night and the flowers can grow up to 12 inches long. Spines under the giant pads trap the air that allows the leaf to float. The spines also provide stability. Water lilies grow in lakes in the Amazon rain forest area as opposed to growing in the Amazon itself.
Acai Palm
The acai palm goes by several names: cabbage palm, pina palm, juçara and manaca. It grows next to the river and in swamps and usually in groups or clumps. The acai palm has a tiny trunk with a diameter of 7 to 9 inches but can reach heights of 65 feet. The acai palm produces berries in large bunches of up to 1,000 berries each that weigh up to 120 lbs. The berries are edible and feature prominently in juices and other drinks due to the berries' reputed health benefits. Berries can be collected from July to March. The heart of the Acai palm tree is also edible. Acai palms have both male and female flowers to provide a simple germination process.