It almost looks like the branch had sustained vertical splitting due to strong winds in the past. Partially compartmentalized, but not before decay set in.
Glad you were ok Steve.
Yes, I miss Peru and its people very much. I was blessed to see very remote Jungle, with zero light pollution. Plants and animals that would blow your mind. And friendships that were closer than family.
My dad was a pilot with JAARS for 25 years. We used to strap an aluminum canoe onto one side of this floatplane and go fishing 5min from the mission base in Peru.
I keep bread bags and napkins or paper towels in my truck. If there’s a small tree specimen that I want to bring home, I can wrap the roots in moist paper towels and put them in the bag. Some make it and some don’t. The seedlings that I keep in pots until I’m ready to plant have the best chance...