Avocado
Avocados are fruits of trees in the genus Persea, especially Persea americana. Their creamy flesh surrounds a single large seed and is rich in oil.
Persea americana: A tropical evergreen tree native to Mesoamerica that produces the commonly cultivated avocado. This species supplies most avocados grown and eaten worldwide.
Protogyny: A reproductive pattern in which a flower functions first as female and later as male. Avocado flowers change sexual phase, shaping opportunities for cross-pollination.
Avocado oil: An edible oil extracted from avocado flesh and used in cooking, cosmetics, and personal-care products. The fruit's high oil content makes it a source of culinary and cosmetic oil.
Avocado trade: The domestic and international commerce in fresh avocados and avocado products. Growing demand has linked orchards in producing regions to global markets.
Mango: A tropical stone fruit produced by trees in the genus Mangifera. Mango flesh surrounds a flattened stone, unlike an avocado's large central seed and oily pulp.
Berry: A fleshy fruit that develops from one flower's ovary and usually contains seeds within its pulp. Botanically, an avocado is a large single-seeded berry.
Avocado flowering: The flowering process of avocado trees, whose flowers open in alternating female and male phases. The timing of flower phases affects fruit set.
Guacamole: A Mexican dip or condiment made primarily from mashed avocado, often seasoned with lime, chile, and salt. This widely known preparation showcases avocado's creamy texture.
Deforestation in Michoacán: Forest loss in the Mexican state of Michoacán, driven in part by expansion of avocado orchards. Orchard expansion has replaced some forest habitat in a major production region.
Olive: A small, oil-rich fruit of trees in the genus Olea, widely used as food and for oil. Both fruits are rich in oil, but olives are drupes and avocados are berries.