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Smilax glauca

Smilax glauca

Status
Not Evaluated

IUCN conservation assessment category

Habitat
tropical palm groves, open savannah grassland plains, and warm coastal dunes

Primary ecological niche & biome

Diet
photosynthetic solar energy conversion, shallow root water absorption

Dietary type and primary food source

Activity
year-round tropical foliage growth, seasonal flowering under wet cycles

Diurnal, nocturnal, or active patterns

Scientific Summary

GBIF Taxonomic Backbone & Wikipedia Registry Profile

Smilax glauca, the cat greenbriar or catbriar, is a woody vine in the family Smilacaceae. It is native to central and eastern portions of the United States as well as Mexico, where it is a common and conspicuous part of the forest vegetation. Smilax glauca has prickly stems and climbs by means of tendrils. Leaves are notably gray-glaucous to whitish beneath. It commonly inhabits wooded areas and fences and is often found growing with other species of Smilax. The plants tend to be evergreen in the more southern United States.
Biology & Conservation

Ecologically, the conservation status of Smilax glauca 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 tropical palm groves, open savannah grassland plains, and warm coastal dunes, showing great physiological synergy with its surroundings. In terms of dietary preferences, it relies primarily on a diet of photosynthetic solar energy conversion, shallow root water absorption. It exhibits specialized adaptations centered around a year-round tropical foliage growth, seasonal flowering under wet cycles activity pattern, optimizing its energy conservation and interactions within its native ecosystem. The species has a typical natural lifespan of approximately 60 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 Smilax glauca.

Energy & Activity Profile
Habitat & Adaptation Index
Quick Facts
Native RangeGlobal
Habitat Rangetropical palm groves, open savannah grassland plains, and warm coastal dunes
Lifespan60 Yrs
StatusData Deficient
ScientificSmilax glauca
Registry Info
Lifespan60 years
KingdomPlantae
FamilySmilacaceae