Brazil Nuts
CIFOR https://www.cifor-icraf.org/knowledge/photo/35919051654/
Brazil nuts (Bertholletia excelsa) are currently listed as vulnerable by the International Union for the Conservation of Nature (IUCN). These towering trees, which can reach up to 160 feet, are a crucial part of the Amazon ecosystem. However, their survival depends on a delicate balance within the rainforest.
One of the key species in this balance is the Euglossine bee. Female Euglossine bees are the only pollinators capable of pollinating Brazil nut flowers, while male Euglossine bees gather nectar from specific orchid species. These orchids, often epiphytes, rely on other trees for support, making Brazil nut trees indirectly dependent on both the bees and the broader rainforest ecosystem. In this way, Brazil nut production is inextricably tied to the health of the entire rainforest.
Because of this complex web of interactions, Brazil nuts cannot be farmed on plantations. The trees are too tall for hand-pollination, and successful pollination requires intact, biodiverse rainforest. Moreover, after the nuts are produced, their seed pods are so tough that only agoutis (rodents of the Dasyprocta genus) can crack them open to release and disperse the seeds. Without these rodents, Brazil nut trees would not be able to reproduce effectively.
In addition to their ecological importance, Brazil nuts are a major source of protein for indigenous peoples living in the Amazon. Many indigenous communities rely on harvesting and selling Brazil nuts as a source of income. This sustainable practice not only supports their livelihoods but also incentivizes the protection of the rainforest, as the nuts can only be collected from natural forests. In recognition of their importance, the Brazilian government has made it illegal to cut down Brazil nut trees. Unfortunately, when surrounding forest areas are cleared, the remaining Brazil nut trees stop producing seeds.
As a side note, Brazil nuts are an excellent source of selenium, a vital mineral for human health. However, it's important to consume them in moderation, as eating too many can lead to selenium toxicity, which may cause serious health issues.
References:
Bertholletia excelsa IUCN Red List
https://www.iucnredlist.org/species/32986/9741363
No Rainforest No Brazil Nuts Brittanica
https://www.britannica.com/topic/mutualism-1673060
Brazil Nuts Brittanica
https://www.britannica.com/topic/Brazil-nut#ref1203970
(September 14, 2023) Brazil Nut Tree Bertholletia excelsa Rainforest Alliance
https://www.rainforest-alliance.org/species/brazil-nut-tree/
Harari, Isabelle Deister, Jaqueline (December 3, 2021) For indigenous Zoro, the Brazil nut is a weapon against deforestation Mongabay
(January 25, 2023) Can you Overdose on Nuts University Hospitals