VU

Cephalocereus nizandensis

Stable

Overview

A detailed profile for this species is sourced from the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species as assessments become available.

Cephalocereus nizandensis faces severe pressure from agricultural expansion and urban development in its restricted range in Oaxaca, Mexico. The species' extremely limited distribution makes entire populations vulnerable to single development projects or land conversion events. Illegal collection for the ornamental plant trade poses an additional threat, as mature columnar cacti are highly valued by collectors.

Threat summary

Habitat

This columnar cactus is endemic to dry tropical forests and scrublands in the Isthmus of Tehuantepec region of Oaxaca, Mexico. It grows on rocky slopes and hillsides in areas with well-drained soils and seasonal rainfall patterns typical of the region's semi-arid climate.

Forest· majorForest - Subtropical/tropical dry· majorRocky areas· major

Conservation measures underway

Site/area protectionLegislation

Other threatened species in CACTACEAE

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Turbinicarpus horripilus

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CR

Turbinicarpus mandragora

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EN

Opuntia pachyrrhiza

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EN

Opuntia megarrhiza

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Threatened in Mexico

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Arachnothryx tacanensis

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Frequently asked questions

Why is Cephalocereus nizandensis classified as Vulnerable?
Cephalocereus nizandensis is classified as Vulnerable because the population is declining and the species faces a high risk of extinction in the medium-term future if current pressures continue. Cephalocereus nizandensis faces severe pressure from agricultural expansion and urban development in its restricted range in Oaxaca, Mexico. The species' extremely limited distribution makes entire populations vulnerable to single development projects or land conversion events. Illegal collection for the ornamental plant trade poses an additional threat, as mature columnar cacti are highly valued by collectors.
Where does Cephalocereus nizandensis live?
Cephalocereus nizandensis occurs in Mexico. Country-level distribution data is sourced from the IUCN Red List and cross-referenced with GBIF occurrences.
What are the main threats to Cephalocereus nizandensis?
The main threats to Cephalocereus nizandensis are ai-1, ai-2, ai-3, and ai-4. The full IUCN-classified threat record for this species is detailed on the species page.

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