VU

Agave karwinskii

Declining

Overview

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

Agave karwinskii faces severe pressure from overharvesting for mezcal production, particularly in Oaxaca where it is prized for its distinctive flavor profile. Wild populations are declining due to unsustainable collection practices that remove mature plants before they can reproduce, combined with habitat degradation from agricultural expansion and livestock grazing in its native dry forest ecosystems.

Threat summary

Habitat

Agave karwinskii inhabits dry tropical forests and scrublands in the mountains of southern Mexico, particularly in Oaxaca, growing on rocky slopes and canyon walls at elevations between 1,200-2,000 meters. It thrives in well-drained soils with seasonal rainfall patterns typical of the Sierra Madre del Sur.

Desert· major

Conservation measures underway

Site/area protection

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VU

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Frequently asked questions

Why is Agave karwinskii classified as Vulnerable?
Agave karwinskii 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. Agave karwinskii faces severe pressure from overharvesting for mezcal production, particularly in Oaxaca where it is prized for its distinctive flavor profile. Wild populations are declining due to unsustainable collection practices that remove mature plants before they can reproduce, combined with habitat degradation from agricultural expansion and livestock grazing in its native dry forest ecosystems.
Where does Agave karwinskii live?
Agave karwinskii occurs in Belgium, Italy, Mexico, Panama, Peru, and South Africa (plus 1 other countries). Country-level distribution data is sourced from the IUCN Red List and cross-referenced with GBIF occurrences.
What are the main threats to Agave karwinskii?
The main threats to Agave karwinskii 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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