Mammillaria marcosii
Overview
A detailed profile for this species is sourced from the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species as assessments become available.
Mammillaria marcosii faces severe threats from illegal collection for the international cactus trade, driven by its rarity and distinctive appearance. The species' extremely restricted range makes it vulnerable to habitat degradation from livestock grazing and agricultural expansion in the Mexican highlands. Climate change poses an additional threat through altered precipitation patterns that could disrupt the delicate moisture balance this desert cactus requires for survival.
Habitat
This critically endangered cactus inhabits rocky limestone slopes and crevices in the Chihuahuan Desert of Mexico, typically growing at elevations between 1,200-1,800 meters. It requires well-drained calcareous soils and benefits from the protection of nurse plants and rock formations that provide shade and moisture retention.
