VU

Peniocereus fosterianus

Stable

Overview

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

Peniocereus fosterianus faces significant pressure from habitat conversion as the Sonoran Desert undergoes development for agriculture, urban expansion, and infrastructure projects. The species' extremely limited range makes it particularly vulnerable to localized disturbances, while illegal collection for the horticultural trade targets its distinctive tuberous root system. Climate change poses an additional threat through altered precipitation patterns that could disrupt the delicate moisture balance this desert specialist requires.

Threat summary

Habitat

This rare cactus inhabits rocky slopes and desert flats in the Sonoran Desert, typically growing among nurse plants like palo verde and ironwood trees. It occurs in extremely arid environments with well-drained soils, often on bajadas and in desert washes where its massive underground tuber can access deeper moisture.

Forest· majorForest - Subtropical/tropical dry· major

Conservation measures underway

Site/area protectionLegislation

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Threatened in Mexico

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Arachnothryx tacanensis

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Frequently asked questions

Why is Peniocereus fosterianus classified as Vulnerable?
Peniocereus fosterianus 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. Peniocereus fosterianus faces significant pressure from habitat conversion as the Sonoran Desert undergoes development for agriculture, urban expansion, and infrastructure projects. The species' extremely limited range makes it particularly vulnerable to localized disturbances, while illegal collection for the horticultural trade targets its distinctive tuberous root system. Climate change poses an additional threat through altered precipitation patterns that could disrupt the delicate moisture balance this desert specialist requires.
Where does Peniocereus fosterianus live?
Peniocereus fosterianus occurs in Mexico. Country-level distribution data is sourced from the IUCN Red List and cross-referenced with GBIF occurrences.
What are the main threats to Peniocereus fosterianus?
The main threats to Peniocereus fosterianus 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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