Guaduinae

Guaduinae is a subtribe within the bamboo tribe Bambuseae, belonging to the grass family Poaceae. It comprises several genera of neotropical woody bamboos, primarily found in Central and South America. These bamboos are often characterized by their strong culms (stems) and their important ecological roles in their native habitats.

Characteristics:

Guaduinae bamboos generally exhibit sympodial (clumping) growth habits, forming dense thickets. Their culms can vary in size, ranging from moderately sized to very large, depending on the species. The subtribe is known for bamboos with thick-walled culms, which are often highly valued for construction purposes. Morphological characteristics used to differentiate genera and species within Guaduinae include features of the culm, branching patterns, leaf morphology, and floral structures.

Genera:

The subtribe Guaduinae typically includes the following genera:

• Guadua Kunth
• Olmeca Headl.
• Apoclada McClure
• Criciuma Soderstr. & Londoño
• Eremocaulon Soderstr. & Londoño

The taxonomic placement of some genera within Guaduinae has been subject to revisions based on molecular and morphological data.

Distribution and Habitat:

Guaduinae bamboos are native to the Americas, with their distribution concentrated in tropical and subtropical regions. They are found in a variety of habitats, including forests, riparian zones, and disturbed areas.

Uses:

Species within the Guaduinae are valued for various purposes. Their strong and durable culms make them ideal for construction, providing materials for housing, scaffolding, and other structures. They are also used in the production of furniture, crafts, and musical instruments. Furthermore, some species are utilized in erosion control and soil stabilization.