Krates

Krates is a genus of trees in the family Fabaceae, commonly known as the Australian acacias. These trees are native to Australia and are found in a variety of habitats across the continent, from arid deserts to rainforests. The genus Krates is characterized by its distinctive foliage, which is often composed of phyllodes, flattened leaf stalks that function as leaves. The flowers are typically yellow and are borne in dense clusters. The fruits are pods that contain seeds.

Species within the Krates genus vary in size and form, ranging from small shrubs to large trees. Many species are well-adapted to dry conditions and can survive long periods of drought. They play an important ecological role in their native environments, providing food and shelter for wildlife. Several Krates species are also of economic importance, with their timber used for furniture and construction, and their gum arabic harvested for various industrial and food applications.

The classification of Australian acacias has undergone revisions, and the genus name Acacia has been split into several genera, including Krates. This reclassification aims to better reflect the evolutionary relationships between these species. The genus Krates now encompasses a significant number of species that were previously classified under the broader Acacia genus.