Sebucan facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Sebucan |
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| Leptocereus grantianus flower | |
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The Leptocereus grantianus, also known as sebucan, is a special type of cactus. It can grow up to 2 meters (about 6.5 feet) tall. Its stems are thin, usually 3 to 5 centimeters (1 to 2 inches) wide. This cactus often spreads out or grows mostly upright. It has very few spines, making it almost spineless.
Its long stems have three to five clear ridges, like ribs. These ribs have wavy edges. When the cactus is young, these ribs are thin. Small spots called areoles hold tiny, dark spines. But as the cactus gets older, these tiny spines disappear.
The flowers of the Leptocereus grantianus are quite unique. They grow alone at the end of the stems. These flowers are 3 to 6 centimeters (1 to 2.5 inches) long. They only open at night! The outer parts of the flower are green and thin. The inner parts are many, cream-colored, and about 8 millimeters (0.3 inches) long. After the flower, a round or oval fruit grows, about 4 centimeters (1.5 inches) wide.
Where It Lives
The Leptocereus grantianus cactus is found only in one place in the world. It lives on the island of Culebra. This island is located near the northeast coast of Puerto Rico.
There is only one group of these cacti known to exist. This group has about 50 individual plants. They grow along the rocky coast near a place called Punta Melones. You can find them in dry forests. They like to grow in thick bushes on crumbling rocks, just above the ocean shoreline. Other plants that grow nearby include the sea grape (Coccoloba uvifera) and almacigo (Bursera simaruba).
Why It's Endangered
The Leptocereus grantianus is an endangered species. This means it is at high risk of disappearing forever. The United States Fish & Wildlife Service has officially listed it as endangered.
In the past, many trees were cut down in these dry forests. People cut wood for farming, raising animals, making charcoal, and building homes. This harmed the cactus's natural home.
Today, the island of Culebra is changing quickly. More homes and tourist resorts are being built. Land next to where the cactus lives is planned for new houses. This development could threaten the cactus. Also, because the cactus is so unique, some people might try to take it for their gardens. This is called "take" and it could become a problem.
The place where the cactus grows is also risky. The steep, rocky banks are not very stable. They are also very close to the ocean. Natural events like hurricanes could easily wipe out the only known group of these cacti. Protecting this special plant is very important.
See also
In Spanish: Leptocereus grantianus para niños
