CACTI: A KEY-STONE CROP FOR THE DEVELOPMENT OF MARGINAL LANDS AND TO COMBAT DESERTIFICATION

Cactus is a xerophytic plant and an emergent crop, which evolved commercially during the second half of the XX century. Cacti can grow in severely degraded soils, which are inadequate for other crops. Opuntia spp. have a great capacity to withstand severe dry conditions and are ideal for responding to global environmental changes. Many reasons may account for the great interest devoted to cacti. The multipurpose use of this plant species and their ability to grow in harsh environments are the main reasons. Their root characteristics avoid wind and rain erosion, encouraging their growth in degraded areas. The establishment of sustainable production systems based on cactus may contribute to the food security of populations in agriculturally marginalized areas and to soil improvement. Cacti are some of the best plants for the reforestation of arid and semi-arid areas because they can resist scarce and erratic rainfall and high temperatures. The reasons behind the diffusion of cacti include (i) the simple cultivation practices required to grow the crop, (ii) its quick establishment soon after the introduction in a new area, (iii) the ability to grow in very harsh conditions characterized by high temperature, lack of water and poor soil, (iv) the generation of income from the selling of much valued and appreciated fruits, (v) the use of its stems in the human diet and as fodder for the livestock, (vi) the many industrial derivatives produced from the fruits.