VU

Echidnopsis bentii

Unknown

Overview

A detailed profile for this species is sourced from the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species as assessments become available.

Echidnopsis bentii faces severe pressure from overgrazing by livestock, particularly goats and cattle, which degrades its specialized rocky habitat and reduces available growing sites. The species is further threatened by collection for traditional medicine and ornamental trade, as succulent plants are increasingly sought after by collectors. Climate change poses an additional risk through altered precipitation patterns in its arid environment, potentially making already marginal habitats unsuitable for this drought-adapted but habitat-specific species.

Threat summary

Habitat

Echidnopsis bentii inhabits rocky outcrops, cliff faces, and stony slopes in arid and semi-arid regions of the Horn of Africa. The species requires well-drained, mineral-rich soils and typically grows in crevices and among boulders where it can access moisture while avoiding direct competition with other vegetation.

Forest· major

Other threatened species in APOCYNACEAE

EN

Aspidosperma salgadense

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EN

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VU

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VU

Ceropegia loranthiflora

Unknown

Frequently asked questions

Why is Echidnopsis bentii classified as Vulnerable?
Echidnopsis bentii is classified as Vulnerable because the population is declining and the species faces a high risk of extinction in the medium-term future if current pressures continue. Echidnopsis bentii faces severe pressure from overgrazing by livestock, particularly goats and cattle, which degrades its specialized rocky habitat and reduces available growing sites. The species is further threatened by collection for traditional medicine and ornamental trade, as succulent plants are increasingly sought after by collectors. Climate change poses an additional risk through altered precipitation patterns in its arid environment, potentially making already marginal habitats unsuitable for this drought-adapted but habitat-specific species.
Where does Echidnopsis bentii live?
Echidnopsis bentii 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 Echidnopsis bentii?
The main threats to Echidnopsis bentii 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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