Pediocactus
Pediocactus, pincushion cacti, a rare genus of very small plants, most localized, primarily in Arizona and Utah.
Target Species:
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SCENTdog Teams:
Study Overview:
This project aimed to use ecological scent detection dogs to detect the presence of several taxa within the genus Pediocactus (P. bradyi, P. paradinei, P. peeblesianus (Croizat) subsp. Fickeiseniorum, and P. simpsonii) that occur in north-central Arizona. In order to increase chances of finding undocumented Pediocactus populations, the study will also use species niche modeling to help predict areas likely to survey with the dogs for undocumented Pediocactus populations.
This method proved effective. The combined use of detection dogs and modeling are powerful tools to help locate previously undocumented Pediocactus populations in need of protection.
Project Media
FOX10 Phoenix
Desert dogs trained to sniff out endangered cactus https://www.fox10phoenix.com/video/1548576
Arizona Highways magazine: Uncommon Scents
For decades, search dogs have been used to sniff out narcotics and explosives and help…
LAist article: How Dogs are Saving the Earth
By Fiona Ng Published Aug 17, 2024 9:00 PM HOW DOGS ARE SAVING THE EARTH Lauralea Oliver…
SFGate article: These adorable dogs are fighting California plant poachers
From desert cactus to endangered orchids, these dogs do it all By James Bartlett Aug…