Cuban tangle
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Cuban tangle

Stegnosperma cubense

Unknown

Photo: iNaturalist: (c) verorico, some rights reserved (CC BY-NC)

Overview

Cuban tangle (Stegnosperma cubense) is a rare endemic shrub or small tree native to Cuba, characterized by its distinctive tangled branching pattern and small, succulent-like leaves. This member of the Stegnospermaceae family produces small white or greenish flowers and plays an important role in its native dry forest ecosystems by providing shelter and food resources for local wildlife.

Cuban tangle (Stegnosperma cubense) faces severe population decline primarily due to habitat destruction from urban development and agricultural expansion across its limited range in Cuba. The species' extremely restricted distribution makes it particularly vulnerable to localized threats, with remaining populations fragmented and isolated.

Threat summary

Habitat

Cuban tangle grows in dry limestone forests and rocky coastal areas, typically establishing itself in crevices and shallow soils over limestone substrates. It thrives in areas with good drainage and partial shade provided by the forest canopy, often found on hillsides and coastal bluffs where few other plants can survive the harsh, drought-prone conditions.

Frequently asked questions

Why is Cuban tangle classified as Endangered?
Cuban tangle 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. Cuban tangle (Stegnosperma cubense) faces severe population decline primarily due to habitat destruction from urban development and agricultural expansion across its limited range in Cuba. The species' extremely restricted distribution makes it particularly vulnerable to localized threats, with remaining populations fragmented and isolated.
Where does Cuban tangle live?
Cuban tangle occurs in across multiple regions. Country-level distribution data is sourced from the IUCN Red List and cross-referenced with GBIF occurrences.
What are the main threats to Cuban tangle?
The main threats to Cuban tangle 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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