Peniocereus maculatus
Overview
A detailed profile for this species is sourced from the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species as assessments become available.
Peniocereus maculatus faces severe population decline due to habitat destruction from urban development and agricultural expansion across its limited range in northwestern Mexico. The species is particularly vulnerable to collection pressure from cactus enthusiasts and illegal trade, as its striking spotted stems make it highly sought after. Climate change poses an additional threat through altered precipitation patterns that could disrupt the delicate desert ecosystem balance this species requires.
Habitat
This rare cactus inhabits rocky desert slopes and canyon walls in the Sonoran Desert of northwestern Mexico, typically growing among nurse plants and in crevices that provide protection from extreme temperatures. It requires well-drained soils and specific microclimatic conditions found in elevations between 200-800 meters.
