EN

Turbinicarpus subterraneus

Declining

Overview

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

Turbinicarpus subterraneus faces severe pressure from illegal collection for the international cactus trade, where its rarity makes it highly sought after by collectors. The species' extremely limited range in northeastern Mexico makes entire populations vulnerable to overcollection events. Habitat degradation from livestock grazing and agricultural expansion further threatens the specialized limestone substrate conditions this cactus requires for survival.

Threat summary

Habitat

This species inhabits specialized limestone outcrops and rocky slopes in the Chihuahuan Desert of northeastern Mexico. It grows in extremely arid conditions among sparse desert scrub vegetation, often in crevices and shallow soils derived from limestone substrates.

Shrubland· major

Conservation measures underway

Legislation

Other threatened species in CACTACEAE

EN

Turbinicarpus horripilus

Declining
CR

Turbinicarpus mandragora

Declining
EN

Opuntia pachyrrhiza

Declining
EN

Opuntia megarrhiza

Declining

Frequently asked questions

Why is Turbinicarpus subterraneus classified as Endangered?
Turbinicarpus subterraneus is classified as Endangered — facing a very high risk of extinction in the wild — because population numbers are declining steeply and key habitats are under sustained pressure. Turbinicarpus subterraneus faces severe pressure from illegal collection for the international cactus trade, where its rarity makes it highly sought after by collectors. The species' extremely limited range in northeastern Mexico makes entire populations vulnerable to overcollection events. Habitat degradation from livestock grazing and agricultural expansion further threatens the specialized limestone substrate conditions this cactus requires for survival.
Where does Turbinicarpus subterraneus live?
Turbinicarpus subterraneus occurs in across multiple regions. Country-level distribution data is sourced from the IUCN Red List and cross-referenced with GBIF occurrences.
What are the main threats to Turbinicarpus subterraneus?
The main threats to Turbinicarpus subterraneus 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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