More than 2200 species of the wild flora and fauna photographed in Zihuatanejo, Guerrero, Mexico and the surrounding area.
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Cacti of Zihuatanejo
PHYLUM CHLOROPHYTA
-Vascular Plants (Phylum Tracheophyta)
-Flowering Plants (Subphylum Angiospermae)
-Pinks, Cactuses, and Allies (Order Caryophyllales)
-Cactus Family (Family Cactaceae)
-Subfamily Opuntioideae
-Tribe Opuntieae
-Prickly Pears (Genus Opuntia)
-Cochineal Nopal Cactus (Opuntia cochenillifera)
Opuntia ficus-indica, commonly known as the prickly pear cactus, is a species of cactus native to Mexico and parts of the southwestern United States. This cactus is well suited to dry environments and can be found growing in rocky places and deserts. Prickly pears are widely used in Mexican cuisine, for their sweet fruit (tuna), and their pads are also used in salads and as a vegetable (nopales). It has flat green pads covered in tiny spines and vibrant yellow or red fruits.
Cochineal Nopal Cactus
Opuntia cochenillifera
Description
• Opuntia cochenillifera, commonly known as cochineal nopal or cochineal cactus, is a shrubby cactus in the family Cactaceae. It has flattened, fleshy, green stem segments that are typically oval to oblong and often have few or no prominent spines, although small bristles called glochids may be present. Its flowers are usually red to orange-red, followed by fleshy, reddish fruits. The species has historically been cultivated as a host plant for cochineal scale insects (Dactylopius species), which produce the red pigment carmine.
Range
• Opuntia cochenillifera is native to tropical America, particularly Mexico and parts of Central America and the Caribbean, and has been widely introduced elsewhere. It is cultivated in Zihuatanejo, Guerrero, and the surrounding area.
Habitat
• This cactus grows in warm, sunny environments, including tropical dry forest, scrub, rocky ground, coastal landscapes, and cultivated gardens. It favours well-drained soils and tolerates heat and seasonal drought. It is commonly planted as an ornamental or living fence and may persist in disturbed areas where its stem segments can root and establish new plants.