Cactaceae

The Cactaceae family, commonly known as cacti, is a family of flowering plants belonging to the order Caryophyllales. Cacti are known for their unique adaptations to arid environments, including their thick, fleshy stems that store water, and their spines, which are modified leaves.

Description

Cacti are primarily succulent plants, meaning they have thickened, fleshy parts adapted to store water. Most cacti have a unique photosynthesis process called Crassulacean acid metabolism (CAM), which allows them to conserve water by opening their stomata at night instead of during the day.

Distribution

Cacti are native to the Americas, ranging from Patagonia in the south to parts of western Canada in the north. They are particularly abundant in Mexico and the southwestern United States.

Adaptations

Cacti have several adaptations that allow them to survive in harsh, dry environments. These include:

• Spines: Modified leaves that reduce water loss and provide protection from herbivores.
• Thick, waxy skin: Reduces water loss through evaporation.
• Shallow, widespread root systems: Allow rapid uptake of water from light rains.

Uses

Cacti have various uses, both practical and ornamental. Some species, such as the prickly pear (Opuntia), are used as food. Others are cultivated for their unique appearance and are popular in gardening and landscaping.

Conservation

Many cactus species are threatened by habitat destruction and illegal collection. Conservation efforts are underway to protect these unique plants and their habitats.

Genera

The Cactaceae family includes numerous genera, some of which are:

• Carnegiea
• Cereus
• Echinocactus
• Opuntia
• Mammillaria

References

• Flora of North America
• The Plant List

External links

• CactiGuide
• Cactus Art