CR

Discocactus subterraneo-proliferans

Unknown

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.

Threat summary

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.

Savanna· major

Conservation measures underway

Species recoveryLegislation

Frequently asked questions

Why is Discocactus subterraneo-proliferans classified as Critically Endangered?
Discocactus subterraneo-proliferans 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 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.
Where does Discocactus subterraneo-proliferans live?
Discocactus subterraneo-proliferans 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 subterraneo-proliferans?
The main threats to Discocactus subterraneo-proliferans are 2.1, 2.3, ai-1, and ai-2. The full IUCN-classified threat record for this species is detailed on the species page.

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