Anatomical characterization of Dalbergia ruddae and its analysis as tonewood

Dalbergia ruddae wood is highly valued in Mexico for the manufacture of musical instruments. However, the lack of information on its anatomical structure makes its identification difficult. The identification of Dalbergia woods is highly complex due to the similarity between species. Some Dalbergia species are in danger of extinction. Therefore, information available for the accurate and reliable identification of Dalbergia wood is essential for law enforcement to stop illegal logging and trade, as well as for the search for substitute woods for this genus. This work aimed to analyze the wood of Dalbergia ruddae by coupling light microscopy, scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and X-ray micro-computed tomography (µCT). The aim is also to analyze the anatomical structure of this wood to understand why it is considered a tonewood. Regarding its analysis as a tonewood, it can be concluded that D. ruddae wood possesses a highly decorative grain, high density, and its constituent elements provide an alignment and homogeneity that allow for good acoustic velocity and anisotropy, facilitating adequate sound dispersion. All of this has contributed to D. ruddae wood being valued as a tonewood.