Cacti: natural heritage of Mexico

Abstract

Cacti are land plants that are distributed mainly in the arid zones of the American continent and the Caribbean islands, though they also occur in non-arid environments from Canada to Tierra del Fuego. Most of the 1,500 species of cacti are native to the American continent, and only Rhipsalis baccifera has a natural distribution in the old world. Mexico contains the highest world richness with nearly 700 species. Cacti provide multiple ecosystemic benefits since they reduce the impacts of desertification and have ecological and trophic interactions with other organisms. Some species promote or facilitate the establishment of other plants, allowing the permeation of water into the waterbeds, diminishing soil erosion, or having medicinal and alimentary uses. Most cacti deal with survival risks from the loss and fragmentation of natural habitats, as well as from intensive harvesting for illegal trade. There are Mexican laws and international agreements to conserve and protect cacti and their habitats. Everybody may contribute with good commercial practices that support cacti conservation.