Distribution and future projection of potential cultivation areas for Acrocomia aculeata (Arecaceae) worldwide: the emerging energy culture of the tropics

Macaúba ( Acrocomia aculeata ) is a palm tree with a high potential for plant-based raw material production, particularly bioenergy production; it is one of the most promising species for cultivation on marginal lands. This study aimed to determine the distribution of A. aculeata species worldwide and verify the Köppen–Geiger climatic classifications of its locations. Research on the global occurrence of A. aculeata was conducted to characterize the geographic dispersal of macaúba. Based on the distribution points of the species, the Köppen–Geiger classification was determined for each occurrence point. Subsequently, a map was created that showed the regions with potential for the introduction of macaúba based on the climatic data compiled. Macaúba is distributed throughout the American continents, with the highest occurrence rates in Latin America (followed by those in North America and finally Central America). Particularly, Brazil and Mexico exhibit the highest occurrence rates. According to the distribution, the Köppen–Geiger climatic classification determined the predominance of macaúba in the savanna climate. Some countries located in Central Africa, Southern Asia, and Northern Australia showed the potential to introduce macaúba as a bioenergetic source.