Shorthook fishhook cactus

Description

Sclerocactus brevihamatus is a species of cactus known by the common name shorthook fishhook cactus. It is endemic to Texas, and is an endangered species. Threats to the species and subspecies include collecting and development in its habitat. Sclerocactus brevihamatus is a small, dark-green to grey globose cactus. It has a short, central taproot with many fine, fibrous offshoots. Its stem has 10–12 ribs, divided into tubercles with shallow, wooly grooves on the upper surface. The areoles are circular with white-colored wool. Its central spines are white or yellowish, and often hooked, occasionally red-tipped, and may become grey as they age. The radial spines are straight and irregularly spread. Its small, funnelform flowers vary in color from shades of green, yellow, and white. The fruits are egg-shaped and pinkish-green, and contain kidney-shaped, dark brown to black seeds. Sclerocactus brevihamatus grows in shallow, gravel and clay soils. It prefers slightly alkaline soils, and often grows in soils heavy with limestone sediments. Its natural habitat is open areas with sparse vegetation, such as hilltops, floodplains, and rocky plains.