Global change impacts on cacti (Cactaceae): current threats, challenges and conservation solutions

Area of Science:

• Botany
• Ecology
• Conservation Biology

Background:

• Cactaceae (cacti) exhibit remarkable adaptive evolution in arid/semi-arid Americas.
• Cacti hold significant cultural, economic, and ecological value.
• Cacti are among the most threatened and endangered plant groups globally.

Approach:

• This paper reviews threats to cacti in subtropical arid/semi-arid regions.
• Focuses on global change forces: increased CO2, temperature, drought, and invasive species.
• Proposes priorities and solutions to mitigate extinction risk.

Key Points:

• Global change drivers like rising CO2, temperatures, and extreme droughts impact cacti.
• Invasive species increase competition and wildfire frequency, threatening native cacti.
• Conservation strategies must address these multifaceted threats.

Conclusions:

• Effective cacti conservation demands robust policy and international collaboration.
• Innovative approaches include identifying climate-vulnerable species and enhancing habitats.
• Ex situ conservation, restoration, and forensic tools are crucial for mitigating extinction.