CR

Discocactus cangaensis

Declining

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.

Threat summary

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.

Savanna· major

Conservation measures underway

Species recoveryLegislation

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Frequently asked questions

Why is Discocactus cangaensis classified as Critically Endangered?
Discocactus cangaensis is classified as Critically Endangered — facing an extremely high risk of extinction in the wild — because population sizes are very small, declining sharply, or restricted to a tiny range. 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.
Where does Discocactus cangaensis live?
Discocactus cangaensis occurs in Brazil. Country-level distribution data is sourced from the IUCN Red List and cross-referenced with GBIF occurrences.
What are the main threats to Discocactus cangaensis?
The main threats to Discocactus cangaensis are 1.1, 2.3, 4.1, and 9.3.4. The full IUCN-classified threat record for this species is detailed on the species page.

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