IDENTIFYING ADDITIONAL CRITICAL HABITAT FOR THE ACUÑA CACTUS IN SOUTHERN ARIZONA

Abstract

The number of endangered species listed in Arizona is increasing as humans continue to impact the natural world. One species in particular, the acuña cactus, is listed as endangered and is likely to become extinct after the year 2070. The designated critical habitat is not enough to revive its population numbers, so additional efforts must be put forth. This study aims to determine whether the acuña cactus can be found outside of its critical habitat boundaries and where additional critical habitat should be designated in order to facilitate a successful recovery. To accomplish these goals, I made a habitat suitability model and conducted field surveys within three regions of the “high suitability” and “maximum suitability” zones of the model. These study sites included Tonto National Forest, Freeman Road in Florence, and Organ Pipe Cactus National Monument. While walking 480 m of transect lines, only 2 acuña cacti were found. For this reason, I concluded that additional critical habitat should be given to the acuña cactus to protect more land within the “maximum suitability” regions of the habitat suitability model. This will ensure that the species is subjected to a decreased number of environmental stressors.