Current Perspectives on the Classification and Phylogenetics of the Genus Piper L.

摘要: Piper is one of the most diverse genera among basal lineages angiosperms, and in tropical wet forests around world. species are shrubs, climbers, herbs abundant understory forests. Ecologically, important structural components forest understory, especially Neotropics (Gentry 1990); they also make up a significant portion diet frugivorous bats subfamilies Caroliinae Sternodermatinae (Fleming 1981, 1985). A few known for their economic value. The these black pepper (Piper nigrum L.), best agricultural product genus. In addition, there other exploited by indigenous peoples different parts geographic range Piper: P. belle L., 201Cbetle leaf201C chewed with betle nut Asia, whereas methysticum Forst.f., Kava Kava, traditional drink from South Pacific that has been introduced to Europe North America as an herbal medicine. Both used practices narcotic properties. Other condiments: auritum HBK, acuyo, Mexico lolot C.DC., blot leaves, Viet Nam. Many societies countries world antiinflammatory analgesic properties; such, may have immense potential pharmaceutical industry (Ehringhaus 1997).