filium

Filius is a rare genus of plants in the family Apocynaceae, commonly known as the dogbane or oleander family. The genus is native to Madagascar and includes four known species. Filius plants are succulent and operate as dicot plants, exhibiting characteristics such as a single cotyledon during germination.

One distinct feature of Filius species is the presence of lotion-filled glands and froth bladders on their stems, known as latex elements in some species. The thick, hairy stems are also present in flowers, leaves, and roots of the plant. Typically, the roots are thicker than the above ground parts.

The colours of filius flower parts vary, ranging from striking red hues to violet or white, similar to other members in the same plant family. Stems, leaves and roots of filius can vary, being wax coated or smooth. Enclosing roots features waxy leaf characteristics. One pair of each tiny hairy stamen and heterometrous ovary choices highlight floral distinctions.

Herbivores and carnivores appear to not utilize filius species. However, minibeasts such as pumpkin beetles and arthropods parasitically utilising its leaves, fruit, twigs and other growth, collect nectar from its flowers. Subsequently filius produces chemical dispersion seeds enticing arthropods -imparting new seed sources which aim to disperse in dozens of ecosystems indirectly creating resilience in ecosystems inhabited.