Attalea butyracea

Abstract

This majestic palm with its fountain-like spray of generous fronds is found in forests in both uplands and floodplains but is more common in seasonally-inundated habitats. It is found in western Amazonia north to Mexico and throughout its range the enormous fronds are gathered to thatch houses and to make mats. The endocarps are also chopped open to obtain beetle grubs for fish bait. The grubs are also cooked and eaten. The palm is typically spared when clearing forest and is planted in some areas.