Tachi Preto
Scientific name: Tachigali myrmecophila
Overview
Tachi Preto is a dense and durable South American hardwood native to the tropical forests of the Amazon Basin. Closely related to Tachi (Tachigali vulgaris), this species is generally recognized for its darker coloration, high strength, and suitability for demanding structural and exterior applications. It is harvested primarily in Brazil and neighboring regions where it serves as an important commercial timber.
The wood is valued for its durability, wear resistance, and ability to perform in challenging environments. While not as widely known internationally as species such as Ipe or Greenheart, Tachi Preto has earned a strong reputation among those familiar with South American tropical hardwoods.
Quick Facts
- Common Name: Tachi Preto
- Scientific Name: Tachigali myrmecophila
- Region: South American Hardwoods
- Tree Size: 80–130 ft tall, 2–4 ft trunk diameter
- Average Dried Weight: 55–65 lbs/ft³
- Janka Hardness: Approximately 2,000–2,400 lbf
- Color: Medium brown to dark brown
- Grain: Straight to slightly interlocked
- Texture: Medium to coarse
Identification Characteristics
Tachi Preto is generally darker and somewhat denser than standard Tachi. The wood often displays a rich brown appearance with subtle grain patterns and a solid, heavy feel.
Key identification traits include:
- Medium brown to dark brown heartwood
- Heavy and dense structure
- Straight to slightly interlocked grain
- Medium to coarse texture
- Durable and wear resistant
- Darker appearance than Tachi
Working Properties
Tachi Preto can be challenging to machine due to its density, though it produces strong and durable finished products. Proper tool maintenance and slower feed rates often improve machining results.
- Machines moderately well with sharp tooling
- Dense material may dull cutters over time
- Can exhibit tear-out in interlocked grain sections
- Good fastening properties
- Accepts finishes satisfactorily
- Excellent durability for exterior use
Safety Note
No significant toxicity concerns have been widely reported for Tachi Preto. As with all hardwoods, dust collection and respiratory protection are recommended when cutting, sanding, or machining the wood.
Common Uses
Tachi Preto is frequently selected for applications requiring durability and long service life.
- Heavy construction
- Structural timbers
- Exterior joinery
- Bridges
- Industrial flooring
- Decking
- Utility poles
- Marine construction
- Railroad ties
- Outdoor infrastructure
Sustainability & Notes
Tachi Preto is part of the diverse tropical hardwood resource found throughout portions of the Amazon region. Sustainable forestry management plays an important role in maintaining healthy forest ecosystems while supporting local timber industries.
Because of its strength and durability, the species is often chosen for practical applications where performance is prioritized over decorative appearance.
Comparative Notes & Related Species
Tachi – A closely related species with similar working properties and structural applications.
Greenheart – Another highly durable South American hardwood commonly used in heavy-duty outdoor and marine projects.
Massaranduba – A dense tropical hardwood valued for exceptional strength, durability, and wear resistance.
Related Guides
Best Woods for Outdoor Use – Learn which hardwood species perform best in exterior applications where moisture, weather, and wear resistance are critical.
Understanding Wood Strength: What Makes Wood Strong? – Explore the factors that contribute to wood strength and discover why dense tropical hardwoods are favored for structural projects.
Preventing Tear-Out in Interlocked Grain – Understand how grain structure affects machining and learn techniques for achieving cleaner surfaces when working difficult hardwoods.
Compare Wood Properties
See how this species ranks in density and hardness using our Wood Density & Janka Hardness Chart. You can also explore Hardest Woods, Softest Woods, and Most Dense Woods for quick comparisons.
Collector Notes
Tachi Preto is an excellent addition to collections focused on South American hardwoods and industrial timber species. While it lacks the dramatic figure associated with highly decorative exotic woods, its darker coloration, density, and commercial significance make it a valuable representative of the Amazon’s structural hardwood resources.
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Wood Sample Collection
This species is part of an ongoing effort to document and preserve wood samples from around the world.
Learn more about contributing to the collection:
Resources
Authoritative botanical and forestry references used in compiling information about this species include:
• USDA Forest Service – Wood Handbook: Wood as an Engineering Material
https://www.fpl.fs.usda.gov/products/publications/
• The Wood Database – Global reference for wood identification, physical properties, and woodworking characteristics
https://www.wood-database.com/
• Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew – Plants of the World Online – Botanical taxonomy and species distribution database
https://powo.science.kew.org/
• International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN Red List) – Global conservation status assessments
https://www.iucnredlist.org/
• Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species (CITES) – International trade regulations for protected plant species
https://cites.org/
Additional forestry publications, academic research papers, and regional timber studies may also be referenced where available.
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Availability & Where to Buy
Exotic hardwood availability can vary significantly depending on region, sustainability regulations, and supplier inventory.
As this archive grows, recommended suppliers and specialty wood retailers will be listed here to help woodworkers locate responsibly sourced material.
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