Reicheocactus facts for kids

Reicheocactus famatimensis is a special type of cactus that grows in the high mountains of northwestern Argentina. It's the only known species in its group, called a monotypic genus, which means it's unique! This small cactus is part of the larger Cactaceae family, which includes all cacti.

Quick facts for kids Reicheocactus
Scientific classification
Genus:	Reicheocactus
Species:	famatimensis

What is Reicheocactus famatimensis Like?

This cactus is usually found growing alone, but sometimes it slowly forms small groups. It grows very slowly. Its stems are small and can be flat and roundish, or shaped like a cylinder.

Spines and Flowers

Reicheocactus famatimensis has very short, spidery spines that look like tiny combs. When it blooms, it produces beautiful egg-yellow flowers.

Where Does This Cactus Live?

This unique cactus lives in the high mountain areas of Argentina. You can find it growing at elevations between 1,000 and 3,000 meters (about 3,280 to 9,840 feet) above sea level.

Its Mountain Home

It prefers to grow in high-altitude grasslands where the soil is rocky. Because of its small size, it can be quite hard to spot among the rocks and grasses!

Protecting This Rare Cactus

Reicheocactus famatimensis is not very common. One of the biggest dangers it faces is being over-collected by plant enthusiasts. People sometimes take these cacti from their natural homes, which can harm the wild populations.

Future Threats

Another possible threat in the future is mining. If mining activities increase in its natural habitat, it could affect where these special cacti grow.

Naming the Reicheocactus

The name Reicheocactus was given to honor Karl Friedrich Reiche. He was a German botanist, which is a scientist who studies plants. Karl Reiche worked as a university professor in countries like Chile and Mexico.

What Does famatimensis Mean?

The second part of the cactus's name, famatimensis, tells us where it comes from. It refers to the Sierra de Famatina, which is a mountain range in the Andes mountains in the La Rioja province of Argentina.

Other Names for This Cactus

For a while, people thought Reicheocactus was actually a type of Rebutia cactus. You might also find it in plant nurseries under an older name, Lobivia famatimensis.

Images for kids

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  A Reicheocactus famatimensis plant.