Agave acicularis
Photo: (c) Oliver K. Reichl, all rights reserved, uploaded by Oliver K. Reichl
Overview
A detailed profile for this species is sourced from the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species as assessments become available.
Agave acicularis faces severe population decline due to its extremely restricted range in the Chihuahuan Desert of Mexico, where habitat degradation from livestock grazing and agricultural expansion has fragmented remaining populations. The species' slow growth rate and specialized pollination requirements make recovery particularly challenging, while climate change threatens to shift suitable habitat conditions beyond the plant's adaptive capacity.
Habitat
This critically endangered agave is endemic to rocky limestone slopes and desert scrubland in the Chihuahuan Desert region of northern Mexico. It typically grows on well-drained calcareous soils at elevations between 1,000-1,500 meters, often in association with other desert succulents and xerophytic shrubs.
Other threatened species in Asparagaceae
Frequently asked questions
Why is Agave acicularis classified as Critically Endangered?
Where does Agave acicularis live?
What are the main threats to Agave acicularis?
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