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skiff milkvetch
Scientific Name: Astragalus microcymbus
Family: Fabaceae
Category: Dicot
Growth: Forb/herb
Duration: Perennial
Other Names:
Astragalus microcymbus - Skiff Milkvetch
Astragalus microcymbus is a rare flowering plant belonging to the legume family. Its common name is Skiff Milkvetch.
Considerations for Pets
- Some species of Astragalus are known as "locoweed."
Taxonomy and Nomenclature
- Scientific Name: Astragalus microcymbus Barneby
- Family: Fabaceae (Pea or Legume Family)
- Genus: Astragalus L.
- Rank: Species
- Synonyms: Microcymbus
Distribution and Habitat
- Skiff Milkvetch is endemic to Colorado in the United States.
- It is specifically found in the Gunnison Basin.
- Its current range is limited, with only about 83 acres remaining.
Ecological Role
- The plant is threatened by cheatgrass incursion and other environmental factors.
- Fragmentation from recreation is also a significant threat.
Morphological Characteristics and Growth Habits
- Skiff Milkvetch is a perennial forb/herb (a non-woody plant that is not a grass).
Interactions with Other Organisms
- Skiff Milkvetch shares its habitat with the Gunnison Sage-grouse and Gunnison's prairie dog.
- Riparian areas where it grows are also important for nesting birds.
Conservation Status
- The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service determined that Skiff Milkvetch warrants being a candidate for listing but cannot be listed for protection due to other priorities.
- It is considered a rare endemic plant and is on the candidate list for endangered species.
Further Information
- BISON Web Link: http://bison.usgs.ornl.gov/api/scientificName/Astragalus%20microcymbus
- ITIS Web Link