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Ceratozamia decumbens

Declining

Overview

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

Ceratozamia decumbens faces severe pressure from habitat destruction as cloud forests in its native range are cleared for agriculture and urban development. The species is particularly vulnerable due to its extremely limited distribution in the mountains of Veracruz, Mexico, where deforestation rates remain high. Illegal collection for the horticultural trade poses an additional threat, as cycads are highly prized by collectors worldwide.

Threat summary

Habitat

This cycad species inhabits cloud forests and humid montane forests at elevations between 1,200-1,800 meters in the Sierra Madre Oriental of Veracruz, Mexico. It grows on steep slopes with well-drained soils in areas characterized by persistent fog and high humidity throughout much of the year.

Forest - Subtropical/tropical moist lowland· major

Conservation measures underway

Site/area protectionSpecies recoveryLegislation

Frequently asked questions

Why is Ceratozamia decumbens classified as Endangered?
Ceratozamia decumbens is classified as Endangered — facing a very high risk of extinction in the wild — because population numbers are declining steeply and key habitats are under sustained pressure. Ceratozamia decumbens faces severe pressure from habitat destruction as cloud forests in its native range are cleared for agriculture and urban development. The species is particularly vulnerable due to its extremely limited distribution in the mountains of Veracruz, Mexico, where deforestation rates remain high. Illegal collection for the horticultural trade poses an additional threat, as cycads are highly prized by collectors worldwide.
Where does Ceratozamia decumbens live?
Ceratozamia decumbens occurs in Mexico, Thailand, and United States. Country-level distribution data is sourced from the IUCN Red List and cross-referenced with GBIF occurrences.
What are the main threats to Ceratozamia decumbens?
The main threats to Ceratozamia decumbens 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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