sand cat's-tail
Phleum arenarium
Overview
A detailed profile for this species is sourced from the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species as assessments become available.
Sand cat's-tail faces severe decline due to coastal development and tourism infrastructure that destroys its specialized dune habitats. Recreational activities including off-road vehicles and trampling cause direct damage to both plants and the fragile sand dune ecosystems they depend upon. Climate change-induced sea level rise and increased storm intensity threaten remaining coastal populations through habitat erosion and saltwater intrusion.
Habitat
Sand cat's-tail is restricted to mobile sand dunes and sandy coastal areas, particularly fore-dunes and semi-fixed dune systems along Atlantic and Mediterranean coastlines. This specialized grass requires well-drained, nutrient-poor sandy soils and is adapted to the harsh conditions of shifting coastal dune environments.
Other threatened species in Poaceae
Threatened in Afghanistan
Frequently asked questions
Why is sand cat's-tail classified as Vulnerable?
Where does sand cat's-tail live?
What are the main threats to sand cat's-tail?
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