# Pelecyphora chihuahuensis (Britton & Rose) D. Aquino & Dan. Sánchez: A Review on Its Taxonomy, Ecology and Conservation of an Endemic Mexican Cactus Species with Biotechnological Perspectives

## TL;DR

This paper reviews the taxonomy, ecology, and conservation of the Mexican cactus Pelecyphora chihuahuensis, emphasizing biotechnology as a key tool for its preservation.

## Contribution

The paper integrates taxonomy, ecology, and biotechnology to propose a novel conservation strategy for an endangered cactus species.

## Key findings

- Pelecyphora chihuahuensis is threatened by habitat loss, climate change, and poaching.
- Biotechnological tools like in vitro propagation and CRISPR-Cas offer potential for ex situ conservation.
- Molecular markers and GIS-based models provide insights into the species' identity and ecological niche.

## Abstract

The cactus Pelecyphora chihuahuensis is endemic to northern Mexico. It has become a threatened species due to its secluded habitat, climate change and poaching. The latter makes it a highly vulnerable species due to its restricted distribution and high ornamental value. This review delineates the taxonomic position of the species, its ecological range, and its urgent conservation needs, along with the use of biotechnological tools as the main conservation solution. Molecular markers coupled with next-generation sequencing and species distribution models based on GIS give insight into its identity and ecology. Structures such as in vitro propagation and cryopreservation could offer feasible approaches for ex situ conservation of the species, with CRISPR-Cas and synthetic biology offering conservation possibilities in the future. Integration of taxonomy, ecology, and biotechnology will provide a basis for sustainable conservation and policy development.

The cactus Pelecyphora chihuahuensis is endemic to northern Mexico and represents an interesting subject on the integration of classical taxonomy with modern biotechnological tools to solve conservation issues. Because of its narrow ecological range and high ornamental value, the species is increasingly at risk from degradation of its habitats, climate change, and plant poaching. This review includes current knowledge on its taxonomic status, ecological distribution, and conservation needs, with a focus on biotechnological means to aid its preservation. Aspects such as molecular markers, next-generation sequencing, and previously reported GIS-based species distribution models provide valuable insights into its identity and ecological niche. Biotechnological tools for ex situ conservation include in vitro propagation and cryopreservation. Potential applications of CRISPR-Cas and synthetic biology in preserving rare cacti are also discussed. By uncovering gaps, this review opens a window of opportunity to urgently promote the sustainable management of P. chihuahuensis and related endangered cacti by merging biotechnology with ecology and taxonomy, the results presented here underscore the importance of integrating scientific findings into future research that supports the development and implementation of effective policies that prioritize the conservation and biocultural preservation of arid-land flora, ensuring that both ecological integrity and cultural values are maintained for these unique ecosystems.