G'morning, RaverBoi
.
Toxicity. Each a genus of the family Araceae, while there are 70 species of Alocasia found in Asia, Oceania, & South America, there are only 6 or 8 species of genus Colocasia. The Colocasia are shallow, herbaceous perennials native to Polynesia & Southeastern Asia. While both derive from a rhizome or tuber and appear very similar, reasons for cultivation differ dramatically.
Colocasia
The tubers, & even leaves, are considered a delicacy in European & Indian recipees which are quite diverse & numerous. They are perfectly safe & cultivated as a food source.
Alocasia
The stem (or corm) contains raphid crystals of oxalic acid which can numb and swell the tongue & pharynx. While edible, they are not considered a delicacy and require long duration boiling to remove the toxins. Other symptoms of improper ingestion include pain and hallucinations.
Another South American plant, notorious for causing oral swelling, is Dieffenbachia - also of family Araceae (an Aroid). Used in the distillation of Curare - while notably for acts of defense & aggression - the various forms of Curare are also useful in hunting game for food.
Lorax (living in Ecuador) is very well versed in both Aroids & that style of hunting.
Hope this helps
.