VU

Cephalocereus totolapensis

Declining

Overview

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

Cephalocereus totolapensis faces severe pressure from habitat destruction due to agricultural expansion and urban development in its restricted range in Oaxaca, Mexico. The species is particularly vulnerable to collection for ornamental trade, as columnar cacti are highly sought after by collectors. Climate change poses an additional threat through altered precipitation patterns that could disrupt the delicate water balance this desert species requires.

Threat summary

Habitat

This columnar cactus is endemic to the dry tropical forests and xerophytic scrublands of the Tehuantepec region in Oaxaca, Mexico. It grows on rocky slopes and canyon walls at elevations between 200-800 meters, typically in areas with well-drained soils and seasonal rainfall patterns.

Forest· majorForest - Subtropical/tropical dry· major

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Frequently asked questions

Why is Cephalocereus totolapensis classified as Vulnerable?
Cephalocereus totolapensis 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 totolapensis faces severe pressure from habitat destruction due to agricultural expansion and urban development in its restricted range in Oaxaca, Mexico. The species is particularly vulnerable to collection for ornamental trade, as columnar cacti are highly sought after by collectors. Climate change poses an additional threat through altered precipitation patterns that could disrupt the delicate water balance this desert species requires.
Where does Cephalocereus totolapensis live?
Cephalocereus totolapensis 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 totolapensis?
The main threats to Cephalocereus totolapensis 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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