Coconut

Biology

The coconut is a plant that displays a variety of shapes, all belonging to the same species. It can reach 30 metres in height and live as long as 100 years. Its applications vary from drinks – coconut milk and water – to the production of furniture, soap, lubricant and even explosives.

Conservation

This plant is actually one of the most abundant in tropical countries and near the shore. This is due to the fact that its fruit has a low density, allowing it to float. When it falls from the tree, brownish in colour and already mature, it can float with the currents for long distances, remaining viable. The coconut thrives in sandy and saline soils, in sunny areas with regular rain, which makes the settlement on the shore a lot easier.

Curiosities

The word “coco” was introduced by the Portuguese during the discovery of India by Vasco da Gama in the 15th century. At that time, “coco” was a mythic imaginary monster that scared little children. The fruit has three small holes which make it look like a human face. Thus, the name of the creature was applied to the fruit and passed into many other languages.