1 400 known cacti species are invasive but a few of them are among the most damaging invasive plant species in the world and we should urgently learn from experiences in other countries such as the cactus invasion hot spots South Africa (35 species), Australia (26 species) and Spain (24 species) to prevent highly dangerous infestations that are very costly and often almost impossible to eradicate.
All cacti come from the Americas. In countries like Australia, South Africa and Namibia they find ideal growing conditions but none of the pests and diseases that keep them under control in their countries of origin. By various adaptations such as the tough reflective skin on the pads, the ability to store water in these pads and by having converted their leaves into spines, they greatly reduce the amount of water they need.
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