Discocactus subterraneo-proliferans
Overview
A detailed profile for this species is sourced from the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species as assessments become available.
Discocactus subterraneo-proliferans faces severe threats from agricultural expansion and cattle ranching across its extremely limited range in the Brazilian Cerrado. Mining activities and infrastructure development have further fragmented its already restricted habitat. The species' slow growth rate and specialized habitat requirements make recovery particularly challenging, with populations unable to quickly recolonize disturbed areas.
Habitat
This critically endangered cactus is endemic to the Cerrado savanna of central Brazil, where it grows in sandy soils among sparse grassland and scrub vegetation. It typically occurs in areas with well-drained, nutrient-poor soils at elevations between 800-1200 meters.
