Rapicactus zaragosae facts for kids

Rapicactus zaragosae, also known by its other name Turbinicarpus zaragosae, is a special type of plant that belongs to the cactus family, called Cactaceae. It's a small, round cactus that grows in hot, dry places.

This cactus is found only in Mexico, which means it is endemic to that country. Its natural home is in hot deserts. Sadly, Rapicactus zaragosae is in danger because its natural habitat is being destroyed.

Quick facts for kids Rapicactus zaragosae
Conservation status
Vulnerable (IUCN 3.1)
CITES Appendix I (CITES)
Scientific classification
Synonyms
Gymnocactus subterraneus var. zaragosae Glass & R.A.Foster Neolloydia subterranea subsp. zaragosae (Glass & R.A.Foster) Doweld Neolloydia subterranea var. zaragosae (Glass & R.A.Foster) E.F.Anderson Neolloydia zaragosae (Glass & R.A.Foster) Doweld Pediocactus subterraneus var. zaragosae (Glass & R.A.Foster) Halda Rapicactus subterraneus subsp. zaragosae (Glass & R.A.Foster) Lüthy Thelocactus subterraneus var. zaragosae (Glass & R.A.Foster) Bravo Turbinicarpus beguinii subsp. zaragosae (Glass & R.A.Foster) D.R.Hunt Turbinicarpus mandragora subsp. zaragosae (Glass & R.A.Foster) Lüthy Turbinicarpus subterraneus subsp. zaragosae (Glass & R.A.Foster) Zachar Turbinicarpus subterraneus var. zaragosae (Glass & R.A.Foster) A.D.Zimmerman Turbinicarpus zaragosae (Glass & R.A.Foster) Glass & A.Hofer

What is Rapicactus zaragosae?

Rapicactus zaragosae is a small, unique cactus. It has a rounded body, often growing partly underground, which helps it survive in dry conditions. Like many cacti, it has spines that protect it from animals and help collect moisture.

Where Does This Cactus Live?

This cactus is found only in a specific part of Mexico. It grows in hot, dry desert areas. These places often have very little rain and extreme temperatures, both hot and cold. The cactus has special ways to store water and survive in such harsh conditions.

Why Is It Special?

Being "endemic" means that Rapicactus zaragosae naturally grows nowhere else in the world except for its specific home in Mexico. This makes it very special and important to protect. If its habitat is destroyed, it could disappear forever.

Protecting This Cactus

Rapicactus zaragosae is considered a vulnerable plant. This means it faces a high risk of becoming endangered or even extinct in the wild. The main reason for this is habitat destruction.

What Does "Vulnerable" Mean?

When a plant or animal is listed as "Vulnerable" by groups like the IUCN, it means there are not many of them left. Their numbers are going down, and they could be in serious trouble if nothing changes.

What Does CITES Mean?

Rapicactus zaragosae is also listed under CITES Appendix I. CITES stands for the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora. Being in Appendix I means that trading this cactus across borders is almost completely banned. This rule helps protect the cactus from being illegally collected and sold, which is another threat to its survival.

See also

In Spanish: Rapicactus zaragosae para niños