Turbinicarpus horripilus
Overview
A detailed profile for this species is sourced from the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species as assessments become available.
Turbinicarpus horripilus faces severe pressure from illegal collection for the international cactus trade, where its distinctive spination and rarity make it highly sought after by collectors. The species' extremely limited distribution in the Chihuahuan Desert of Mexico makes entire populations vulnerable to overcollection events. Mining activities and agricultural expansion in its restricted range further fragment the already small habitat patches where this endemic cactus occurs.
Habitat
This species inhabits limestone hills and rocky slopes in the Chihuahuan Desert of northeastern Mexico, typically growing in crevices and among limestone outcrops at elevations between 1,000-1,500 meters. It occurs in extremely arid environments with sparse vegetation, often associated with other endemic cacti and desert shrubs adapted to the harsh limestone substrate.
