The soil on this part of Pantanal (between Corumbá and Miranda) is in many places fine sand – just like a desert or a beach.
This stingray vine (Cissus spinosa) was climbing on the vegetation bordering the forested islands, and sometimes also the fences of Pousada Xaraés.
It also grows alongside rivers, and sometimes grows to dense carpets high upwards to the canopy. Older specimens have woody parts where you’ll see thorns.
It’s called stingray vine by locals as it’s believed that the juices help heal stingray wounds. Also called snake vine.
Native range is South America.
Last updated on 8 November 2024
