This species of cactus is native to central America, but was introduced as an ornamental to several other parts of the world. It has been declared as an invasive species in south Africa, Australia and Sri Lanka, and is among the 100 worst invasive species in the world. It can become especially dominant on rocky outcrops, where it outcompetes native species, several of which are often rare and endemic in their distribution.
Parts of this cactus are used in traditional systems of medicine in many parts of the Indian subcontinent as well as central America. Recent studies have also focused on the “phytochemical and pharmacological properties” of this species.
Australia has seen tremendous success in controlling the spread of this cactus using the moth Cactoblastis cactorum, whose larvae consume the plant. However, since the moth is not a specialist on this species, there are several concerns about its spread and impact on other native Opuntia species across the world. South Africa, Sri Lanka and India have also seen successful control of this invasive cactus using another insect, Dactylopious opuntiae.
Parts of this cactus are used in traditional systems of medicine in many parts of the Indian subcontinent as well as central America. Recent studies have also focused on the “phytochemical and pharmacological properties” of this species.
Australia has seen tremendous success in controlling the spread of this cactus using the moth Cactoblastis cactorum, whose larvae consume the plant. However, since the moth is not a specialist on this species, there are several concerns about its spread and impact on other native Opuntia species across the world. South Africa, Sri Lanka and India have also seen successful control of this invasive cactus using another insect, Dactylopious opuntiae.
