Cantabrus

Cantabrus is a genus of flowering plants in the family Ranunculaceae, endemic to the Cantabrian Mountains of northern Spain. The genus was described in 1998 by botanist Maria López-Navarro, with Cantabrus cantabriensis designated as the type species. The name combines Cantabria with the Latin suffix brus, a common element in plant genus names.

The genus currently comprises two accepted species: Cantabrus cantabriensis and Cantabrus montanus. A disputed third taxon, Cantabrus pyrenaeus, is mentioned in some sources but consensus remains on the two main species.

Cantabrus species are herbaceous perennials forming low clumps. Leaves are deeply lobed; flowering stems rise above the foliage. Flowers appear in spring, solitary or in small groups, with five petaloid sepals that range in color from violet to blue. The fruit is a cluster of small dry seeds.

Distribution and habitat: Cantabrus is restricted to damp meadows, rocky clearings, and gullies within montane and subalpine zones, typically above 900 meters and up to about 1800 meters. They favor shaded to partially sunny sites with moist, well-drained soils.

Ecology and conservation: Pollination is mainly by solitary bees and bumblebees. Seed dispersal is achieved by gravity and wind-assisted movement of lightweight seeds. Due to its restricted range, Cantabrus is considered Vulnerable by the IUCN. Threats include habitat degradation from grazing, land-use change, and climate change. Conservation measures include habitat protection, population monitoring, and seed banking.