Strombocactus
Strombocactus disciformis is a rare species of cacti and the only species of the genus Strombocactus. The plant originates from Central and Northeast Mexico.
| Strombocactus disciformis | |
|---|---|
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| Strombocactus disciformis ssp. esperanzae | |
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| Genus: | Strombocactus |
| Species: | S. disciformis |
| Binomial name | |
| Strombocactus disciformis | |
| Synonyms | |
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Ariocarpus disciformis (DC.) Marshall | |
Description
Strombocactus is a monotypic genus with a strong turnip-like root, a small, depressed, roughly spherical stem covered with spirally arranged overlapping tubercles, each with a spine-bearing areole at its tip. Flowers come from new growth at the crown, and the cactus's small seeds are difficult to see with the naked eye.[2]
Taxonomy
The species has several forms and subspecies:
- Strombocactus disciformis f. cristata
- Strombocactus disciformis ssp. esperanzae
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Conservation status
Both subspecies are classified as Vulnerable on the IUCN Red List, which states that it has a limited range and "is experiencing a decline in mature individuals due to illegal overcollection". The species is listed in Appendix 1 of the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species meaning commercial international trade is prohibited and non-commercial international trade is regulated.[1]
References
- "Appendices | CITES". cites.org. Retrieved 2022-01-14.
- Venning, Frank D. Cacti (A Golden Guide). Racine, Wisconsin: Western Publishing Company, Inc. p. 155.

