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scarlet four-o'clock

scarlet four-o'clock

United States of America, Mexico
Status
Not Evaluated

IUCN conservation assessment category

Habitat
Forest, Desert

Primary ecological niche & biome

Diet
C3 autotrophic photosynthesis, deep root mineral absorption, and carbon sequestration

Dietary type and primary food source

Activity
deciduous summer foliage, vernal flowering, and seasonal seed dispersal

Diurnal, nocturnal, or active patterns

Scientific Summary

GBIF Taxonomic Backbone & Wikipedia Registry Profile

Typification of the name Oxybaphus coccineus: ― Torrey (in Emory 1859: 169) cited a sintype (Wright 1723), and we found four duplicates of this collection. The specimen deposited at US (barcode US 00102894) is here designated as lectotype; it matches Torrey’s protologue and corresponds to the currect concept in Mirabilis (see e. g., Jepson Flora Project 2022, Spellenberg 2003).
Biology & Conservation

Ecologically, the conservation status of scarlet four-o'clock is officially designated as Not Evaluated. Current field registries estimate a global population composed of an unquantified number of individuals, making habitat preservation critical to maintaining their wild populations.

It is typically endemic to forest, desert, showing great physiological synergy with its surroundings. In terms of dietary preferences, it relies primarily on a diet of c3 autotrophic photosynthesis, deep root mineral absorption, and carbon sequestration. It exhibits specialized adaptations centered around a deciduous summer foliage, vernal flowering, and seasonal seed dispersal activity pattern, optimizing its energy conservation and interactions within its native ecosystem. The species has a typical natural lifespan of approximately 150 years, allowing it to adapt and mature through structured generational cycles.

Ongoing biological monitoring and ecological advocacy emphasize the importance of protecting this species. The stability of its food chain and the prevention of fragmentation in its primary range are vital for the continued survival of scarlet four-o'clock.

Energy & Activity Profile
Habitat & Adaptation Index
Quick Facts
Native RangeUnited States of America, Mexico
Habitat RangeForest, Desert
Lifespan150 Yrs
StatusData Deficient
ScientificMirabilis coccinea
Registry Info
Lifespan150 years
KingdomPlantae
FamilyNyctaginaceae
Mirabilis coccinea (Mirabilis coccinea) - Taxon, Habitat & Photos | Symphony of Horizon | Symphony of Horizon