It is also popular in Indonesia (where it is known as kopyor) for making beverages. Harvesting and Yield in Lucerne Cultivation, Important Problems of Coconut Cultivation, Farming Systems & Sustainable Agriculture, Breeding of Field and Horticultural Crops agriculture information, Fundamentals to Entomology agriculture information, Production Techniques for Biological Control Agents, Practicals on Technology of Milk & Milk Products agriculture information, Economics of Natural Resources & Farm Management agriculture information. The fats in the coconut minimize the pores that attract dirt and bacteria and prevent skin from getting damaged. there are a lot of untapped economic potentials in the Coconut industry which need to be . What happens to your body if you drink coconut water everyday? From fermented today alcohol is prepared. Dried coconut flesh is called copra, and the oil and milk derived from it are commonly used in cooking frying in particular as well as in soaps and cosmetics. Every single one of these was ruined by the sea water. (2009), assigned it to Cocos based on the size and the ridged shape of the fruit. Because the nuts can fall from a height of 30 yards, in Southern Asia and Australia, monkeys (e.g., Malaya macaques) are trained to harvest them. Importance of Coconut: The coconut palm is one of the most beautiful and useful trees in the world, grown in more than 80 countries of the tropical. [27] Coconut oil has anti-inflammatory properties, making it beneficial for irritated, chafed skin. Coconut oil is a "functional food" that is popular in traditional medicine in Asia and used worldwide to treat a wide variety of health problems from abscesses to upset stomachs. The stiff midribs of coconut leaves are used for making brooms in India, Indonesia (sapu lidi), Malaysia, the Maldives, and the Philippines (walis tingting). For the ProRodeo Hall of Fame bucking horse, see, Geographical distributions of Indo-Atlantic and Pacific coconut subpopulations and their genetic composition (Gunn, Inferred historical introduction of coconuts from the original centers of diversity in the, "Grated coconut" redirects here. Demand grew by 8 percent annually during 1993 to 2004. [113], Cocamidopropyl betaine (CAPB) is a surfactant manufactured from coconut oil that is increasingly used as an ingredient in personal hygiene products and cosmetics, such as shampoos, liquid soaps, cleansers and antiseptics, among others. (1992). For other uses, see, "Coconut tree" redirects here. Androecium Absent but staminodes are present. Coconut requires low to no inputs within an existing land use area unchanged in 100 years. [183] Another early mention of the coconut dates back to the "One Thousand and One Nights" story of Sinbad the Sailor wherein he bought and sold a coconut during his fifth voyage. These have much lower fat content and are suitable as milk substitutes. [14][16][17], Coconut fruits have two distinctive forms depending on domestication. The immature seeds are infested and desapped by larvae staying in the portion covered by the perianth of the immature seed; the seeds then drop off or survive deformed. [3][4] It has also acquired religious significance in South Asian cultures, where it is used in Hindu rituals. [49][50], Genetic studies of coconuts have also confirmed pre-Columbian populations of coconuts in Panama in South America. [76], Coconut palms are normally cultivated in hot and wet tropical climates. The fruit however was compacted in the fossilization process and it was not possible to determine if it had the diagnostic three pores that characterize members of the tribe Cocoseae. She earned her B.A. What are the physical characteristics of a coconut? However, both James Cook and William Bligh[69] (put adrift after the Bounty mutiny) found no sign of the nuts along this 2,000km (1,200mi) stretch when he needed water for his crew. Malauhog has a "solid" sound when tapped, while Malakanin and Malakatad produce a "hollow" sound. Coconut fruits float readily and have been dispersed widely by ocean currents and by humans throughout the tropics. Mature, ripe coconuts can be used as edible seeds, or processed for oil and plant milk from the flesh, charcoal from the hard shell, and coir from the fibrous husk. It is predominantly used in the bakery and confectionary industries (especially in non-coconut-producing countries) because of its longer shelf life compared to freshly grated coconut. Some cultivars are more drought resistant such as 'West coast tall' (India) while others such as 'Hainan Tall' (China) are more cold tolerant. [158], The Zulu Social Aid and Pleasure Club of New Orleans traditionally throws hand-decorated coconuts, one of the most valuable Mardi Gras souvenirs, to parade revelers. [79][80][81], To avoid this, coconuts workers in the Philippines and Guam traditionally use bolos tied with a rope to the waist to cut grooves at regular intervals on the coconut trunks. It is spread by host insects, that thrive on heavy turf grasses. Coconut water serves as a suspension for the endosperm of the coconut during its nuclear phase of development. [108] The artificial landscaping may have been the cause for lethal yellowing, a viral coconut palm disease that leads to the death of the tree. [182] The earliest direct description is given by Cosmas Indicopleustes in his Topographia Christiana written around 545, referred to as "the great nut of India". In fact, the toning property of coconut helps in preventing acne by minimizing the pores of the skin, leaving it glowing. Narali Purnima is celebrated on a full moon day which usually signifies the end of monsoon season in India. On many islands, coconut is a staple in the diet. Coconut oil is one of nine internationally traded vegetable oils and ranks eighth in global production. [158], The leftover fiber from coconut oil and coconut milk production, coconut meal, is used as livestock feed. [18][19] Niu vai endocarp fragments have been recovered in archaeological sites in the St. Matthias Islands of the Bismarck Archipelago. Mature coconuts, ovoid or ellipsoid in shape, 300450 mm (1218 inches) in length and 150200 mm (68 inches) in diameter, have a thick fibrous husk surrounding the familiar single-seeded nut of commerce. In particular, the area around Salalah maintains large coconut plantations similar to those found across the Arabian Sea in Kerala. For other uses, see, "Grated coconut" redirects here. The Pacific group is the only one to display clear genetic and phenotypic indications that they were domesticated; including dwarf habit, self-pollination, and the round "niu vai" fruit morphology with larger endosperm-to-husk ratios. The decreased buoyancy and increased fragility of this spherical, thin-husked fruit would not matter for a species that had started to be dispersed by humans and grown in plantations. It is most strikingly displayed in Madagascar, an island settled by Austronesian sailors at around 2000 to 1500 BP. [18][19][20] [150] Its chronic consumption may increase the risk of cardiovascular diseases by raising total blood cholesterol levels through elevated blood levels of LDL cholesterol and lauric acid. [181], Literary evidence from the Ramayana and Sri Lankan chronicles indicates that the coconut was present in the Indian subcontinent before the 1st centuryBCE. They have a thick fibrous husk surrounding the single-seeded nut. [66] However, it can also be argued that the placement of the vulnerable eye of the nut (down when floating), and the site of the coir cushion are better positioned to ensure that the water-filled nut does not fracture when dropping on rocky ground, rather than for flotation. Riung Wangi III No.53, Bandung, West Java. [111], Coconut oil is increasingly used in the food industry. Miami is the only city outside of Greenwich, Connecticut, where the organization hosts an event. (1993). (2009). The fresh kernel includes moisture 45% protein, 4%, fat 37%, minerals 4% and carbohydrates 10%. Since then, numerous other fossils of similar fruits were recovered throughout New Zealand from the Eocene, Oligocene, and possibly the Holocene. The global virgin coconut oil market captured significant revenue in 2016 and is expected to expand at a CAGR of around 11% over the forecast period. However, admixture, the transfer of genetic material, evidently occurred between the two populations. Production is based in Southern Asia, Central and South America, Oceania and southern Africa; Asia accounts for 84 percent. [24], The palm produces both the female and male flowers on the same inflorescence; thus, the palm is monoecious. It should stay fresh for four to six months stored at room temperature. Neera is fast becoming a popular drink. Malakatad (literally "leather-like") refers to fully mature coconut meat (around 8 to 9 months old) with an opaque white appearance, a tough rubbery to leathery texture, and is difficult to separate from the shell. The coconut tree provides food, fuel, cosmetics, folk medicine and building materials, among many other uses. Overall, the coconut fruit is an important economic resource that has a wide range of uses and contributes significantly to local and global economies. Drift models based on wind and ocean currents have shown that coconuts could not have drifted across the Pacific unaided. [10], True-to-type dwarf varieties of Pacific coconuts have been cultivated by the Austronesian peoples since ancient times. In fact, the toning property of coconut helps in preventing acne by minimizing the pores of the skin, leaving it glowing. Saturated fats can easily filter and re-circulate molecules to facilitate absorption by liver. Easily kills parasites and helps remove them from body. The coconut fruit is an important economic commodity for many countries around the world. It is used for cooking various dishes. Coconut palms are hard to establish in dry climates, and cannot grow there without frequent irrigation; in drought conditions, the new leaves do not open well, and older leaves may become desiccated; fruit also tends to be shed. [165], Researchers from the Melbourne Museum in Australia observed the octopus species Amphioctopus marginatus use tools, specifically coconut shells, for defense and shelter. [185], This article is about the plant. They eventually form the edible solid endosperm (the "coconut meat" or "coconut flesh") which hardens over time. She has worked in some of the worlds most prestigious kitchens, and has published several cookbooks that have become bestsellers. [171] Often it is decorated with bright metal foils and other symbols of auspiciousness. Coconut Tree is commonly found in coastal areas. Copra prices went down and plantations were neglected or under-planted with other crops. Copra is the dried meat of the seed and after processing produces coconut oil and coconut meal. [33], Coconuts are susceptible to the phytoplasma disease, lethal yellowing. The name comes from the old Portuguese word coco, meaning "head" or "skull", after the three indentations on the coconut shell that resemble facial features. As an abrasive,[156] a dried half coconut shell with husk can be used to buff floors. [28] In west-central India, numerous fossils of Cocos-like fruits, leaves, and stems have been recovered from the Deccan Traps. [13] It is consumed throughout the humid tropics, and has been introduced into the retail market as a processed sports drink. Coconut withstands conditions considered marginal for many food crops and is a stabilizing factor in the farming systems of fragile environments. [12], Botanically, the coconut fruit is a drupe, not a true nut. Economic theory posits that economic welfare is the total benefit available to society provided by various economic transaction and situation (Economic Online, 2014). the coconut indu stry of g reat economic imp orta nce. Few plants are as versatile as the coconut. [138] Coconut oil extracted from coconut milk or copra is also used for frying, cooking, and making margarine, among other uses.[134][139]. The biggest barrier to establishing an investment climate for coconut and an economic alternative to oil palm land area expansion is the critical lack of quality planting materials and coconut investment model. Perianth Tepals 6 arranged in two whorls of three each, persistent, and polyphyllous showing imbricate aestivation in both the whorls. The biggest barrier to establishing an investment climate for coconut and an economic alternative to oil palm land area expansion is the critical lack of quality planting materials and coconut investment model. The process of husk extraction from the coir bypasses the retting process, using a custom-built coconut husk extractor designed by ASEANCanada Forest Tree Seed Centre in 1986. It provides the hair with natural shine and softness. It is also often stated that coconuts can travel 110 days, or 5,000km (3,000mi), by sea and still be able to germinate. Elzebroek, A.T.G. Male flower Bracteate, ebracteolate, sessile, staminate, incomplete, trimerous, actinomorphic and pistillodes are present. Adkins S.W., M. Foale and Y.M.S. AGRI INFO - My Agriculture Information Bank, Importance, Composition and Uses of Coconut. Philippine and Malayan dwarf coconuts diverged early into two distinct types. These are grown for recreational purposes or as an income generator. Coconut meat can also be cut into larger pieces or strips, dried, and salted to make "coconut chips" or "coco chips". The various products of Coconut include tender Coconut water, copra, Coconut oil, raw Scientific studies have found it effective for treating enlarged prostate and improving serum cholesterol. (January 27, 1967). Updates? Coconut palms yield roughly 20 percent of the market's oils and fats, Just Change Trust estimates. In 1987, a "coconut law" was signed by Governor Edwin Edwards exempting from insurance liability any decorated coconut "handed" from a Zulu float. Flowers are protandrous, the female flowers open, after the male flowers have withered. Its versatility and value make it an important commodity that continues to play a vital role in the economic development of many countries around the world. [45] They are now almost ubiquitous between 26N and 26S except for the interiors of Africa and South America. Riung Wangi III No.53, Bandung, West Java, Subscribe with your email address to receive pricelist and updates. The discovery of this behavior was observed in Bali and North Sulawesi in Indonesia between 1998 and 2008. It also plays a central role in the Coconut Religion of Vietnam. Encyclopaedia Britannica's editors oversee subject areas in which they have extensive knowledge, whether from years of experience gained by working on that content or via study for an advanced degree. The UAE has, however, imposed strict laws on mature coconut tree imports from other countries to reduce the spread of pests to other native palm trees, as the mixing of date and coconut trees poses a risk of cross-species palm pests, such as rhinoceros beetles and red palm weevils. As development continues, cellular layers of endosperm deposit along the walls of the endocarp up to 11mm (38in) thick, starting at the distal end. Virgin coconut oil (VCO), extracted from fresh coconut kernel using the cold press method, that produces the finest and purest grade coconut oil with maximum retention of nutrients, vitamins, minerals, and anti-oxidants, thus making it the mother of all oils. [49][4][48][60], The coconut played a critical role in the migrations of the Austronesian peoples. The tradition began in the 1910s, and has continued since. In Thailand, the coconut husk is used as a potting medium to produce healthy forest tree saplings. . In comparison, mature coconuts with the husk intact can be stored for three to five months at normal room temperature . Handwritten notes availableIf you find any doubt then you can ask me in the comment section below Please do like,share, comment the video and subscr. Dried copra gives 60 to 67% oil and 33-40% oil cake. [84] Modern methods use hydraulic elevators mounted on tractors or ladders. Gasa suggested, for lack of paper, delivering by dugout canoe a message inscribed on a husked coconut shell, reading Nauru Isl commander / native knows posit / he can pilot / 11 alive need small boat / Kennedy.[159] This coconut was later kept on the president's desk, and is now in the John F. Kennedy Library. The tender nut supplies coconut water, a popular thirst quencher of health and hygienic value. It is cultivated by about 11 million farmers on 12 million hectares; 80% of total production comes from Asia (Adkins et al., 2006). Mature Malakatad coconut meat has a tough texture and thus are processed before consumption or made into copra. Hemera Technologies/Photos.com/Getty Images. They were selected for by the Austronesian peoples for their larger endosperm-to-husk ratio as well as higher coconut water content, making them more useful as food and water reserves for sea voyages. (2015), however, suggests that their diversity in New Zealand indicate that they evolved endemically, rather than being introduced to the islands by long-distance dispersal. Omani people needed the coir rope from the coconut fiber to stitch together their traditional seagoing dhow vessels in which nails were never used. (1995). One recently selected cultivar, the 'Maypan', has been bred for resistance to this disease. Journal of Pharmacy and Pharmacology 59 (7): 995. The coconut tree is the official state tree of Kerala, India. [78], A more controversial method employed by a small number of coconut farmers in Thailand and Malaysia use trained pig-tailed macaques to harvest coconuts. Several countries' economies are based on the coconut palm. [85], In cooler climates (but not less than USDA Zone 9), a similar palm, the queen palm (Syagrus romanzoffiana), is used in landscaping. [157] The shell and husk can be burned for smoke to repel mosquitoes[156] and are used in parts of South India for this purpose. The know-how of coconut cultivation and necessary soil fixation and irrigation may have found its way into Omani, Hadrami and Al-Mahra culture by people who returned from those overseas areas. 50 % of existing coconut palms have passed their economic bearing age (60 years) and are due for replanting, around 900 million coconut seedlings are required at a value of USD$ 2.7 Billion to secure a sustainable future for the global coconut estate. [32], Further complicating measures to determine the evolutionary history of Cocos is the genetic diversity present within C. nucifera as well as its relatedness to other palms. The Makapuno (phenomenon) coconut is recognized to be due to the absence of two enzymes in the nut that are responsible in the degradation of the galactomannan in the solid endosperm so that it remains soft and this has become the characteristic of the nut. [61][63] The tall variety is outcrossing while dwarf palms are self-pollinating, which has led to a much greater degree of genetic diversity within the tall group. [184], In March 1521, a description of the coconut was given by Antonio Pigafetta writing in Italian and using the words "cocho"/"cochi", as recorded in his journal after the first European crossing of the Pacific Ocean during the Magellan circumnavigation and meeting the inhabitants of what would become known as Guam and the Philippines. The Philippines and Indonesia lead in copra production, and throughout the South Pacific copra is one of the most important export products. 2022 Leaf Group Ltd. / Leaf Group Media, All Rights Reserved. Coconut (Cocos nucifera L.) is the sole species of the genus Cocos belonging to the subfamily Cocoideae which includes 27 genera and 600 species.It is a diploid with 32 chromosomes (2n=32), guma', Therefore, as well as dwarf cultivars, Slightly nutty odor, tender coconut, coconut oil and processed . Economic Role Coconut palms yield roughly 20 percent of the market's oils and fats, Just Change Trust estimates. Encyclopaedia Brittanica online. Inflorescence : Large, lateral arising from the axils of leaves, compound spadix, enclosed by large woody bract called spathe. Half coconut shells are used in theatre Foley sound effects work, struck together to create the sound effect of a horse's hoofbeats. In Tamil Nadu, Coimbatore and Tirupur regions top the production list. The meat may also be grated and mixed with water to make coconut milk, which is used in cooking and as a substitute for cows milk. They include morphotaxa like Palmoxylon sundaran, Palmoxylon insignae, and Palmocarpon cocoides. Coconut Research Center. Leaves are also woven into small piuches that are filled with rice and cooked to make pus and ketupat.[162]. Palm wine is distilled to produce arrack. This page was last edited on 30 January 2023, at 13:03. India contribute about 50% coir production. Immature coconuts produce a sloshing sound when shaken (the sharper the sound, the younger it is), while fully mature coconuts do not. [45][24][48][49] Their cultivation and spread was closely tied to the early migrations of the Austronesian peoples who carried coconuts as canoe plants to islands they settled. Partially defatted edible coconut grating is an excellent product and used in bakery and confectionary. The earliest Cocos-like fossil to be found was "Cocos"zeylanica, a fossil species described from small fruits, around 3.5cm (1+12in) 1.3 to 2.5cm (12 to 1in) in size, recovered from the Miocene (~23 to 5.3 million years ago) of New Zealand in 1926. These vary by the taste of the coconut water and color of the fruit, as well as other genetic factors. [174], The flowers are used sometimes in wedding ceremonies in Cambodia. nuciferae. In addition to its use as a food, the coconut is also a source of oil, which is used in cooking and in the production of a range of products, including soaps, cosmetics, and candles. Climbing is the most widespread, but it is also more dangerous and requires skilled workers. Though Kerala has the largest number of coconut trees, in terms of production per hectare, Tamil Nadu leads all other states.