Cuba is known worldwide for its astonishing biodiversity, especially for the richness and variety of its flora. Beyond its beaches and music, Cuba stands out as a true natural sanctuary, home to thousands of plant species, many of them unique on the planet. However, this abundance is currently at a crossroads: human activity, climate change, and the invasion of exotic species are endangering numerous native and endemic species, making conservation a priority challenge at the national and international levels.
This article takes an in-depth look at Cuba's flora: its native and unique species, the ecosystems that host them, the threats they face, and the efforts underway to protect this invaluable natural heritage. We'll analyze how history, geography, and culture have shaped Cuban vegetation, unpack the latest data on endangered species, and explore the importance of maintaining biological diversity for the island's future and the well-being of its inhabitants.
An overview of Cuban biodiversity
Cuba is among the island territories with the highest density of biological species and one of the most notable rates of endemism worldwide. Its geographical location in the Caribbean Sea, the geological diversity of its soil, and the diversity of microclimates have favored the emergence and maintenance of a large number of unique species.
The Cuban archipelago stands out in total numbers and proportionality due to the concentration of species. For example, of the more than 36.700 species registered in the country to date –considering animals, plants, fungi and bacteria– Approximately 8.900 correspond to the Plantae kingdom. Furthermore, Endemism in vascular flora (plants with water conduction systems) is close to 50%. That is, half of the species are not found naturally anywhere else in the world.
This phenomenon is typical of island areas, where evolutionary isolation has played a fundamental role. Around 49-53% of Cuban flora is endemic. According to the latest botanical catalogues and red lists, between 7.000 and 7.500 plant species have been recorded, distributed across some 254 families and more than 1.700 genera.
Cuba even surpasses islands renowned for their diversity, such as Borneo, New Guinea, and Madagascar, when comparing the number of species per square kilometer.
Origin and evolution of Cuban flora
Cuba's biogeographic history has facilitated the accumulation and differentiation of species.
- Geographic isolation: The archipelago has remained separated from other continents and large islands for millions of years, allowing its flora to evolve independently.
- Ocean currents and migratory birds: These have contributed to the arrival of seeds from other places, promoting the diversification of species.
- Ancient land bridges: There is speculation about the existence of temporary connections with Central America, which could have allowed for the exchange of fauna and flora in the distant past.
These factors, combined with habitat variability, explain Cuba's enormous plant heterogeneity.
Characteristics of Cuban vegetation
Cuba's flora is distinguished by its extraordinary taxonomic richness and considerable endemism. Some important elements include:
- Wealth and variety of ecosystems: They range from tropical rainforests to savannas, semi-arid zones, mangroves and coastal formations, each with species adapted to specific conditions.
- Presence of species of great ecological and cultural value: Emblematic examples are the royal palm (Roystonea regia), a national symbol, or the cork palm (Microcycas calocoma), considered a living fossil.
- Families and genres represented: Legumes, Rubiaceae, Poaceae, Asteraceae, Orchidaceae, Melastomataceae, Myrtaceae and other groups are abundantly represented, forming an extremely varied vegetation.
Endemism is particularly high in certain mountainous areas and areas of difficult access. For example, the Sierra Maestra, Nipe, Cristal, Baracoa, the Moa mountain ranges, and the Holguín region, known as "the garden of Cuba," are home to many species considered unique.
Native and endemic species of interest in Cuba
The concept of endemism refers to species that exist naturally only in a certain geographic region and not anywhere else in the world.
In the Cuban case, there is a repertoire of emblematic plant species of extraordinary ecological, cultural, and economic importance.
Examples of endemic and native trees
- Jumagua Palm (Hemithrinax ekmaniana): Found only in a few mogotes in Villa Clara province, it is considered one of the most endemic palms in the world, with very distinctive morphological characteristics and fascinating growth habits.
- Cork palm (Microcycas calocoma): Endemic to Pinar del Río and unique in its genus, this is a prehistoric cycad, a survivor from ancient times. Only a few hundred specimens remain.
- Pot-bellied palm (Calpothrinax wrightii): Once abundant, it is now restricted and threatened, primarily due to the misuse of its fibers and the destruction of its habitat. It is protected in specific natural areas.
- Caguairan (Guibourtia hymenaeifolia): A robust and long-lived tree, famous for the hardness of its wood, key to traditional construction and popular culture.
- White jagüey (Ficus citrifolia): Common in Cuban landscapes, although not exclusive to the archipelago, it plays a vital ecological role as a habitat and food source for many species of fauna.
- Ceiba (Ceiba pentandra): Native, venerated in Cuban religion and culture, it is one of the largest and longest-lived trees, used in popular rituals and myths.
Endemic flowers and plants
- Solandra grandiflora (Calyx): It is one of the largest flowers in existence, with large white to yellow corollas. The plant is perennial and poisonous, and its properties have been used in traditional medicine, although great caution is required.
- Native orchids: The country is home to some 308 orchid species, many of which are endemic and of high ornamental and ecological value. Some are seriously threatened by illegal collection and habitat destruction.
- Cactus and succulents: Cuba has 60 species of cacti, more than half of which are threatened by illegal trafficking and habitat alteration.
Medicinal and forage plants
There are approximately 155 recognized species with medicinal properties in the country. Among them are:
- Gliricidia sepium (flowering pine nut): Traditionally used as a living fence, fodder, soil improvement and folk medicine.
- Other species have been used to treat digestive, respiratory, and rheumatic conditions, among others, highlighting the traditional use passed down from generation to generation.
Conservation status and endangered species
The latest scientific assessments show a worrying outlook for Cuban flora.
- According to the 2021 Red List of Cuban Flora, nearly 50% of the species are under some threat category.
- Twenty-two species are reported to be extinct, four are regionally extinct, 22 are critically endangered, 4 are endangered, 772 are vulnerable, and 512 are considered generally threatened.
- 80,5% of the known flora has been formally assessed, exceeding international commitments under the Convention on Biological Diversity.
The provinces with the highest number of threatened species are Pinar del Río, Holguín, Santiago de Cuba, and Guantánamo. These regions coincide with areas of high concentration of endemism due to the complexity of the relief and the diversity of habitats.
Critically endangered species include many endemic species with very restricted distribution areas, which increases their vulnerability to any external pressure.
Current causes and threats to Cuban flora
The main causes of danger to Cuba's flora are associated with human activity and natural factors exacerbated by climate change.
- Historical deforestation: Since the arrival of Europeans, forest cover has declined dramatically, from more than 70% of Cuba's territory in the 14th century to just 1959% in 90. Although there has been some recovery since the 24,7s (2005% in XNUMX), much of today's forests are plantations, not natural forests.
- Extensive agriculture and livestock farming: They have led to the transformation of large areas of natural vegetation into cultivated areas and pastures, seriously altering the original ecosystems.
- Opencast mining: Mining activities, especially in the eastern region, have led to soil degradation and the total destruction of unique habitats.
- Urbanization and tourism development: More than 300 species have been affected by urban expansion and tourism infrastructure.
- Illegal logging and illicit trade: Timber trees, orchids and cacti are especially threatened by domestic and foreign commercial demand.
- Invasive exotic species: At least 323 invasive plant species have been identified that compete with, displace, or alter native ecosystems, such as marabou, casuarina, and leucaena.
- Climate change: Rising temperatures, altered rainfall patterns, and the frequency of extreme events (hurricanes, droughts, fires) are endangering species with limited distribution and limited adaptive capacity.
- Habitat fragmentation and loss: Many ecosystems are reduced to small patches, isolating populations and hindering their genetic viability.
- Low effectiveness in the application of regulations: Although laws and regulations exist, a lack of resources and personnel limits the capacity for monitoring and control.
The problem of invasive alien species
Invasive alien species represent one of the most serious and insidious threats to Cuba's native flora. Many of them were introduced intentionally for agricultural, ornamental or forestry purposes, while others arrived accidentally.
The most harmful include:
- Marabou (Dichrostachys cinerea): It proliferates and dominates large areas, displacing native plants and hindering ecological restoration.
- Casuarina (Casuarina equisetifolia): Fast-growing tree, changes soil characteristics and competes aggressively with local species.
- Rose apple, Aroma, Leucaena, African tulip, Melaleuca: They all have expansion capabilities that put the original plant communities in trouble.
This phenomenon has contributed to the loss of biodiversity, soil degradation and the modification of entire landscapes.
Areas of high endemism and sites of botanical interest
Cuba has numerous regions that are true havens of biodiversity and endemic plants.
- North of Holguín (the “garden of Cuba”): It is home to the oldest plants and an exceptional concentration of unique species. The Nipe, Cristal, Baracoa, and Moa mountain ranges are notable for their tropical vegetation and high endemism.
- Sierra Maestra: Its orographic complexity and climatic variety favor the concentration of endemic and relict species.
- Rosario and Órganos mountain ranges (western area): Subtropical vegetation and karst geography contribute to a high diversity and endemism of plants.
- Mogotes de Jumagua and other karst formations: Species such as the aforementioned Jumagua Palm only exist in a few mogotes, which makes them extremely vulnerable.
List of the most represented plant families in Cuba
Cuban flora encompasses hundreds of plant families. Among the most numerous in genera and species are:
- Acanthaceae (103 species)
- Amaranthaceae (58 species)
- Apocynaceae (131 species)
- Arecaceae (100 species, including emblematic palms)
- Asteraceae (409 species)
- Cactaceae (60 species)
- Cyperaceae (272 species)
- Euphorbiaceae (264 species)
- Fabaceae-Leguminosae (472 species)
- Melastomataceae (201 species)
- Myrtaceae (295 species)
- Orchidaceae (308 species, one of the groups with the greatest ornamental value)
- Poaceae (464 species)
- Rubiaceae (493 species)
This spectrum of families makes Cuban flora one of the most complete and diverse, highlighting the need for its protection against current threats.
Impact of decline and conservation efforts
The reduction of habitats and the loss of plant diversity not only affect the natural environment, but also the economy, culture, and health of Cubans. Air quality, water availability, soil fertility, and food security are directly linked to the conservation status of flora.
Faced with this situation, initiatives and projects have been promoted that seek to reverse the decline:
- Evaluation and update of the Red List of Cuban Flora: It allows us to better understand the conservation status of each species and prioritize actions.
- Strengthening the National System of Protected Areas: These areas preserve stable natural populations, avoiding direct human intervention on vulnerable species.
- Legal regulation and control: National regulations (such as Resolution 160/2011) and adherence to international treaties (CITES) restrict trade in endangered species and protect plant heritage.
- Reforestation and ecological restoration projects: The restoration of degraded forests and habitats is promoted, while the planting of native species is encouraged.
- Education and awareness: Outreach programs seek to foster ecological awareness in Cuban society, highlighting the value of flora in culture and social well-being.
However, significant challenges remain such as the slowness of the recovery processes, the need for financial and human resources, as well as the complex socioeconomic reality of the country.
Cuban flora in everyday life: culture, medicine, and socioeconomic impact
The connection between Cubans and their vegetation goes far beyond biology: it is woven into culture, gastronomy, traditional medicine, and even religion.
- The royal palm is a national symbol and is present in the coat of arms and national iconography.
- Trees like the ceiba are venerated in religious rituals, especially in Santeria and other Afro-descendant beliefs.
- The use of medicinal plants is an ancient practice, with dozens of species used in infusions and home remedies.
- The exploitation of timber trees, although important for the economy, has also caused the decline of many species.
The loss of plant species implies not only biological impoverishment, but also the disappearance of traditions, knowledge, and valuable economic resources.
Representative examples of Cuban flora and biodiversity
In addition to plant species, Cuba's biological wealth is evident in all other kingdoms:
- Fauna associated with vegetation: Many animals depend directly on native plants for food, reproduction, or shelter. One example is the hummingbird, the world's smallest bird, which pollinates various native flowers.
- Land mollusks: Some 1.400 species have been recorded, with around 95% being endemic. The most notable species is the genus Polymita (the famous colored snails), which depend on certain understory plants.
- Insects, amphibians and reptiles: Cuba holds regional records for diversity and endemism in these groups, many of which are deeply linked to unique plant microhabitats.
The disappearance of plants has cascading effects on the rest of the ecosystem components.
Challenges and future perspectives for the conservation of Cuban flora
The current situation calls for further strengthening research, protection, and sustainable management of Cuba's plant life.
- Promote collaboration between academic, government, and civil society institutions for the identification and protection of vulnerable species.
- Promote environmental education as a cross-cutting theme at all levels, to foster respect and appreciation for botanical diversity.
- Support and develop breeding and cultivation technologies for endangered species, both in situ and ex situ (botanical gardens, seed banks).
- Encourage responsible ecotourism that values the observation and enjoyment of local flora without generating negative impacts.
- Ensure the effective implementation of conservation regulations, with adequate resources and personnel.
The future of Cuban flora will depend largely on the level of awareness and commitment of society and institutions at all levels.
Cuba's international importance and commitments
Cuba is a signatory to key international agreements for the preservation of its biodiversity.
- Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD): It commits the country to assess and conserve at least 80% of its native flora according to its conservation status, a goal that has already been surpassed.
- Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species (CITES): It strictly regulates the export and import of protected plant species.
- National laws and resolutions: The Cuban legal framework establishes guidelines for the protection, management, and sustainable use of natural resources.
These actions are complemented by research, the ongoing updating of the Red List, participation in international scientific networks, and the promotion of community-based ecological restoration projects.
Role of citizenship and education
The success of conserving Cuba's flora does not depend solely on laws or scientists: it is a collective task where education, culture, and community participation are key.
- Promote the planting of native species in gardens and urban spaces helps preserve biodiversity and prevents the spread of invasive species.
- Participate in reforestation activities, cleanup of natural habitats and awareness campaigns strengthens the connection between people and their environment.
- Report looting, illegal logging or wildlife trafficking contributes to the effective protection of endangered species.
Cuban flora is part of the country's history, daily life, and future.
Cuba's plant diversity is, without a doubt, one of the island's greatest treasures, both for its ecological value and for its cultural, social, and economic implications. Maintaining this wealth requires today, more than ever, firm action, up-to-date information, and the involvement of all sectors of society. Respecting, understanding, and preserving Cuba's native and endemic flora means protecting the identity, health, and future of the entire nation.
