Katalox (Swartzia cubensis)

Katalox (pronounced 'cat-ah-losh'), is often called "Mexican Royal Ebony" or also Wamara, Bannia, Catalox, Katalosh. It is an excellent and sustainable tonewood, somehow resembling the Ebony, originating from Central America. The grain is exceptionally compact and regular, making up for a very stable and dense surface. The color is dark brown to nearly black with subtle red/purple highlights. The tonal balance of the Katalox is similar to the traditional qualities of ebony, along with excellent sustain. This is why Katalox has been ranked in several publications (including by the USDA) as a suitable substitute to African Gabon Ebony for stringed instruments.
It is, therefore, an excellent candidate for a fingerboard, for both sound and aesthetic reasons, and as such is gaining increasing popularity among luthiers and builders.