10 Questions
What is the typical number of sepals and petals found in Capparis flowers?
4
What is the primary use of Capparis spinosa?
For its pickled flower buds
What is the characteristic of the ovary in Capparis flowers?
It is one-celled
What is the name of the sweet-tasting proteins found in Mabinlang seeds?
Mabinlins
In which family was the genus Capparis previously included?
Brassicaceae
What was the alternative name for Capparis canescens used by the indigenous people of the Rockhampton area of Queensland?
Mondoleu
What is the main benefit of using Capparis decidua in landscape gardening?
Stopping soil erosion
Which of the following butterflies is known to visit flowers of Capparis spinosa in the winter months?
Atrophaneura hector
What is the purpose of the pulpy part of Australian Capparis species, according to Mr. P.O'Shanesy?
A good substitute for mustard
Which of the following birds eats the ripe fruit and seeds of Capparis spinosa?
Any bird species
Study Notes
Capparis Genus and its Characteristics
- The Capparis genus consists of 142 species of shrubs or lianas, commonly known as caper shrubs or caperbushes.
- They are found in subtropical and tropical regions of Africa, Eurasia, Australasia, and the Pacific.
Plant Description
- The leaves are simple, entire, and rarely reduced.
- Flowers are bisexual, bracteates, axillary or supra-axillary, solitary or in rows, in racemes or umbels.
- Sepals and petals are 4 in number and are free.
- Stamens are many, ovary on a gynophore, one-celled.
- Fruit is a berry, globose or ellipsoid.
Uses and Ecology
- The pickled flower bud of Capparis spinosa is a well-known condiment.
- Caperbushes are used for their fruit, which is rich in micronutrients.
- Various species of Capparis are used in cooking, herbalism, and folk medicine.
- Mabinlang seeds are eaten as sweets, and Mabinlang is used in Traditional Chinese Medicine.
Mabinlins and Aspalthos
- Mabinlins are sweet-tasting proteins found in Mabinlang seed.
- At least one Mabinlin is highly resistant to heat.
- Aspalthos, the root of a shrub, was used in ancient Egyptian incense.
Uses in Landscape Gardening and Food for Animals
- Caperbushes from arid regions are useful in landscape gardening, afforestation, and reforestation.
- They can stop soil erosion and preserve agricultural land.
- Large-flowered species can attract butterflies.
- Fruit and seeds of caperbushes are relished by many birds and other animals.
Caterpillars and Butterflies
- Capparis plants are important food for certain Lepidoptera caterpillars.
- Various butterfly species, such as the Crimson Rose, visit flowers of C. spinosa.
- Many birds eat ripe Capparis spinosa fruit and seeds.
This quiz covers the characteristics and classification of the Capparis genus, including its habitat, leaves, and flowers. Learn about the features and distribution of these flowering plants.
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