Family: Burseraceae
Protium copal (copal tree) is a species of tree in the Burseraceae family, native to tropical regions of the Americas, particularly Central America and parts of South America. It is known for producing a fragrant resin, commonly referred to as copal, which has been used for centuries in traditional medicine, rituals, and as incense. The resin is harvested by making incisions in the tree’s bark, and it hardens upon exposure to air. Protium copal trees typically grow in lowland rainforests and are valued not only for their resin but also for their ecological role in supporting local biodiversity.
Protium copal (copal tree) is not currently recognized as invasive in Hawaiʻi or other tropical Pacific islands. However, certain biological and ecological traits suggest it could establish and spread in novel environments. Notably, Protium copal thrives in wet tropical forests and prefers heavy shade, indicating high shade tolerance. This trait allows it to establish under existing forest canopies, potentially outcompeting native understory species. Additionally, its fruits are dispersed by birds and other animals (endozoochory), which could facilitate its spread across various habitats if suitable dispersers are present. The tree’s adaptability to moist tropical climates, similar to those in many Pacific islands, further increases its potential for establishment. Furthermore, Protium copal produces aromatic resin, which might deter herbivory, giving it a competitive advantage over native species lacking such defenses.
High Risk Traits:
- Broad elevation range
- Thrives and can spread in regions with tropical climates
- Resins could reduce palatability, and potentially increase fire risk
- Shade tolerant (could establish in intact forests)
- Tolerates many soil types (not limited by substrate)
- Reproduces by seed
- Seeds dispersed by birds, other frugivorous animals and through intentional cultivation
Low Risk Traits:
- No reports of invasive or negative impacts where cultivated (but limited evidence of cultivation outside native range)
- Unarmed (no spines, thorns, or burrs)
- Dioecious (require male and female trees for seed production)
- Relatively large drupes (2.25-2.5 cm x 1.25-1.75 cm) may limit the ability of most birds present in the Hawaiian Islands to consume and effectively disperse the seeds