A widespread variety endemic to Mexico that may be impacted by forest conversion and fires.
Distribution
Endemic to Mexico occurring in the states of Guerrero, Jalisco, Michoacan, Oaxaca, Puebla, and Zacatecas
Habitat and Ecology
Juniperus flaccida var. poblana occurs in montane Pinyon-Juniper woodland, pine-oak forest and woodland,and oak woodland. Its altitude range is from 1,700 m to 2,500 m
Human Uses
Likely used locally for fence posts and firewood.
Conservation Status
Global Status
Near Threatened
Global Rationale
Although this variety has a very large extent of occurrence, its area of occupancy is much more limited (704 km2). There is some evidence of decline throughout much of its range but it is uncertain if it is sufficient to warrant listing in one of the threatened categories. Until more information is available, a precautionary listing of Near Threatened (almost qualifies for listing as threatened under criterion B2ab(iii)) seems to be appropriate for this taxon.
Although only known from southern Mexico this variety is still sufficiently widespread and probably common to be outside risk of extinction. Its abundance has possibly been under-estimated due to identification problems; many specimens collected have not been distinguished at the level of variety, partly because they were collected before varieties were recognized in J. flaccida, but also since that time. On the other hand, there is a threat from woodland clearing for agriculture and grazing which is likely to cause a decline of the population
Conservation Actions
This variety has not been identified from a protected area.
