Unveiling the Geographic Profile and Key Details of Perebea tessmannii (Moraceae): An Unconventional Amazonian Food Source

Perebea tessmannii Mildbr., an unconventional food species, is widely recognized within traditional Amazonian communities but remains obscure in urban settings. Despite its delectable taste and potential antioxidant properties, this fruit has yet to undergo any form of comprehensive study, whether in terms of nutrition, chemistry, ecology, or technology. Hence, this study aimed to conduct a comprehensive review of the P. tessmannii species across the major virtual herbaria. The objective was to provide a detailed description of the plant's overall features, including seeds, fruits, habitat, and geographic distribution. Additionally, the study sought to establish connections with local investigations of the species in the Southwest Amazon. Trees of the species were mapped, and plant characteristics were measured. Fruits and seeds were also collected and studied for dendrometric characteristics and other variables. P. tessmannii has a record of occurrence in Brazil, Peru, Bolivia and Ecuador. In Brazil, it is found in Amazonas, Pará, Mato Grosso, Amapá and Acre. It can be found in terra firme environments, floodplains and low areas of poorly drained forests. The trees have, in a greater proportion, slightly tortuous trunks. Its fruits disperse by gravity, and the possibility of dispersion by animals is strongly indicated. The immature fruits are green, and when ripe they become reddish. They are characterized by being infructescence, covered in trichomes and emitting a striking sweet aroma. The moisture content of seed dispersion, measured at 39%, indicated a significant amount of water present. This high moisture level serves as a precursor, suggesting increased susceptibility to desiccation