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rhinoceros cactus
Scientific Name: Coryphantha echinus
Family: Cactaceae
Category: Dicot
Growth: Shrub
Duration: Perennial
Other Names:
Coryphantha cornifera: The Rhinoceros Cactus
This fascinating cactus, known as the Rhinoceros Cactus, hails from Mexico and belongs to the diverse Cactaceae family.
Considerations for Pets
- Several common names, such as "Sea-urchin cactus" and "Prickly Beehive Cactus," suggest the presence of spines or prickly features.
- The text mentions "thorny plants" in the habitat where rhinoceros iguanas live, indicating that cacti, including Coryphantha cornifera, may possess thorns.
Taxonomy and Nomenclature
- Scientific Name: Coryphantha cornifera (DC.) Lem.
- Common Names: Rhinoceros Cactus, Sea-urchin cactus, Prickly Beehive Cactus.
- Family: Cactaceae (Cactus Family)
- Kingdom: Plantae
- Synonyms:
- Mammillaria cornifera
- Coryphantha cornifera var. echinus
- Coryphantha pectinata
- Mammillaria echinus
- Coryphantha echinus (Engelm.) Britton & Rose
Distribution and Habitat
- Coryphantha cornifera is endemic to Mexico, occurring in several states including Guanajuato.
- It typically grows on limestone gravel.
- It is found in hot regions with plenty of sunshine.
Morphological Characteristics
- Mostly a globular cactus.
Ecological Role
- The text mentions rhinoceros iguanas feeding on fallen cactus fruit, indicating a role in the iguanas' diet.
Quirky Facts
- The text highlights that cacti are among the world's more threatened species, even more so than charismatic animals like rhinos and elephants.
Further Information
- IUCN Red List of Threatened Species
- Alamy stock photo library
- Wikimedia Commons
- Cambridge University Botanic Garden