Discocactus cangaensis
Overview
A detailed profile for this species is sourced from the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species as assessments become available.
Discocactus cangaensis faces severe threats from iron ore mining activities in the Carajás region of Brazil, where its extremely restricted range overlaps with valuable mineral deposits. The species' habitat is being directly destroyed by mining operations and associated infrastructure development. Additional pressures include illegal collection for the horticultural trade, as Discocactus species are highly prized by cactus collectors worldwide.
Habitat
This critically endangered cactus is endemic to the iron-rich campos rupestres (rocky grasslands) of the Serra dos Carajás in Pará state, Brazil. It grows specifically on ferruginous outcrops and lateritic soils at elevations around 700-800 meters, requiring the unique microclimate and soil conditions found in these ancient geological formations.
