Aichryson dumosum

Aichryson dumosum
Conservation status
Critically Endangered  (IUCN 3.1)[1]
Scientific classification
Kingdom:	Plantae
Clade:	Tracheophytes
Clade:	Angiosperms
Clade:	Eudicots
Order:	Saxifragales
Family:	Crassulaceae
Genus:	Aichryson
Species:	A. dumosum
Binomial name
Aichryson dumosum (Lowe) Praeger

Aichryson dumosum is a critically endangered[2] species of succulent plant of the family Crassulaceae endemic to Madeira.

Description

Aichryson dumosum is a glandular plant up to 38 centimetres (15 in) in height, with reddish purple branches. Flowers are 8–10 millimetres (0.31–0.39 in) in diagonal, most with 7 petals, in loose summits. Petals 4–5 millimetres (0.16–0.20 in), lanceolate, bright golden yellow with a dorsal central rib.[3]

Distribution and Habitat

The species is endemic to one single locality on Calheta Municipality, Madeira Island and is estimated to have around 50 to 250 individuals occupying only 100 square metres (1,100 sq ft). It grows in crevices and sheltered areas typical for micro-habitats consisting of an agglomeration of rocks.[1][3]

It is mainly threatened by invasive species, trampling, fires, droughts and landslides.[1]

References

1. Carvalho, J.A. (2011). "Aichryson dumosum". IUCN Red List of Threatened Species. 2011: e.T162278A5567815. doi:10.2305/IUCN.UK.2011-1.RLTS.T162278A5567815.en. Retrieved 19 November 2021.
2. "Aichryson dumosum (Lowe) Praeg". European Environment Agency. Retrieved 28 November 2020.
3. "Aichryson dumosum (Lowe) Praeger". www3.uma.pt. Retrieved 28 November 2020.