Latest news with #Opuntia
Libyan Express
11-08-2025
- General
- Libyan Express
Cochineal insect outbreak spreads across Libya
BY Libyan Express Aug 11, 2025 - 03:40 Updated: Aug 11, 2025 - 03:42 Prickly pear plants under threat as cochineal insect spreads in western Libya Mustafa Mohammad Al-Zarrouq, head of the Western Coast branch of the National Centre for Plant Protection and Quarantine, has confirmed a growing outbreak of the destructive cochineal insect in several towns and cities along Libya's western coast. In statements to local media, Al-Zarrouq identified the main affected areas as Zawiya, Judayem, Abu Surra, Al-Mayah, Al-Tuweybiyah, Al-Maamoura, Qirqouza, and Al-Zahra. The first signs of infestation, he said, were recorded in May 2024. The cochineal insect feeds exclusively on prickly pear (Opuntia) plants and does not attack other types of trees or crops. Prickly pear fruit is a seasonal staple in Libyan markets and holds cultural value in many communities, making the outbreak a concern for both farmers and consumers. Al-Zarrouq explained that limited resources earlier in the year hampered containment efforts, allowing the pest to spread. With additional resources now secured, the centre has launched an intensive control campaign. The first phase of the campaign was completed 10 days ago, and the second phase is due to begin within the next two weeks. Teams are currently monitoring and evaluating the results of the initial stage, with early feedback suggesting the measures are working. The cochineal insect, originally native to the Americas, is notorious for its rapid spread and potential to devastate prickly pear plantations. Agricultural experts warn that without swift and coordinated action, the pest could severely impact local livelihoods and the availability of this popular fruit in Libyan markets. The views expressed in Op-Ed pieces are those of the author and do not purport to reflect the opinions or views of Libyan Express. How to submit an Op-Ed: Libyan Express accepts opinion articles on a wide range of topics. Submissions may be sent to oped@ Please include 'Op-Ed' in the subject line.
Straits Times
25-06-2025
- Health
- Straits Times
Cactus tempura? Japanese tuck into prickly pear superfood
The Opuntia genus, known as prickly pear cactus, is gaining national appeal in Japan for being rich in minerals, dietary fibre and other nutrients. PHOTO: REUTERS TOKYO - Farmers in Japan are cooking up new menus for health-conscious Japanese, with dishes like quiche, pizza toast, skewers, tempura and cold Chinese noodles. They share a common but somewhat unusual ingredient: prickly pear cactus. As one of the few farmers who grow edible cactus in Japan, Miki Deguchi is convinced that the nutrient-packed plant is well on its way to becoming a staple here. The Opuntia genus, known as prickly pear cactus, is gaining national appeal in Japan for being rich in minerals, dietary fibre and other nutrients. It has a mild, refreshing taste and can even be enjoyed uncooked. There's some evidence to back its 'superfood' label. Last year, Chubu University established the Research Initiatives Center for Cactus and Succulent Plant Research for the industrial use of cacti. It's located in the city of Kasugai, Aichi Prefecture, where ornamental cactus cultivation first took off in Japan. Researchers at the centre confirmed that mice fed a diet mixed with cactus pear powder had elevated levels of mucin, a protein that covers the surface of the intestine and blocks viruses, and enhanced immune function. 'I'm convinced that cactus has great potential as a functional food,' said Mamoru Tanaka, an associate professor of food and nutrition at the university who took part in the research. Ms Miki, 63, and her husband Motohiko, 63, grow prickly pear on a Kasugai farm set in a 'satoyama',an area between picturesque mountain foothills and arable flat lands. In May, the sounds of birds chirping and frogs croaking resounded near a row of newly sprouted prickly pear. The shoots grow tender and succulent through the fall. The Deguchis learned to grow the plants in 2015. They now cultivate more than 700 cacti in a paddy acquired from a friend. Named 'Taiyonoha' (Sun Leaves), their plants are sold online and at supermarkets in the city for about 1,800 yen (S$15.9) per kilogram and are also served at high-end restaurants in the prefecture. They are also sold as food for pet turtles. Prickly pear has long been a favorite food in Latin America, but Ms Miki said she and her husband 'want to spread the Japanese way of eating it.' Their website provides information on how to prepare a variety of recipes such as a fluffy and sticky cactus quiche. 'It's even delicious on rice with bonito flakes,' Ms Miki said. Cacti thrive in the desert and are highly resilient. The Deguchis' cacti do not need pesticides, and they easily withstand heavy rains, even when their roots are submerged. Farmers in Kasugai began producing ornamental cacti around 1953 and the city has since grown to one of the foremost centers for the plants in Japan, according to city officials. The Deguchis and one other farmer grow edible cacti, and about 10 restaurants offer menus such as ramen noodles and sweets made with the succulents in the city, they said. Local elementary and junior high schools serve cactus curry with Japanese croquettes, or korokke, several times a year. Experts in Japan and abroad alike are also focusing on the potential of edible cactus as a countermeasure to world population growth and climate change. In 2017, the United Nations' Food and Agriculture Organization highlighted the potential of prickly pear cactus as a resilient and nutritious food source in the face of climate change and food crises. The organisation emphasised the plant's ability to thrive in dry and drought-prone areas, providing food, fodder and water for both humans and livestock. It is already being grown for foodstuffs and livestock feed in about 30 countries around the world, including Mexico. Meanwhile, prickly pear cactus is spreading to other regions of Japan. In May, Watahan Super Center, a supermarket and home center chain that operates mainly in Nagano Prefecture, began selling the plant at some of its stores. KYODO NEWS Join ST's Telegram channel and get the latest breaking news delivered to you.
New Indian Express
10-06-2025
- Climate
- New Indian Express
Why your cactus gets the monsoon blues
Cacti might look like tough, spiky warriors of the plant world — but don't be fooled. Come monsoon, they turn into total drama queens. One unexpected downpour, and you'll find your cactus sulking in a corner (read: rotting from the roots up). These desert darlings hate excess water almost as much as we hate soggy socks. So if you're the kind who lovingly leaves all your plants out in the rain, your cactus will probably file for planticide. Popular varieties You'll often find Opuntia species such as Opuntia ficus-indica and Opuntia microdasys, Cereus types like Selenicereus grandiflorus, and the classic golden barrel cactus (Echinocactus grusonii) gracing balconies and living rooms. #FunFact All cacti are succulents! The term cactus comes from the Greek word kaktos, meaning a spiny plant. Those spines are more than a fashion statement — they protect against hungry herbivores, trap moisture from the cool night air, and help reflect heat during blistering days.
Yahoo
02-05-2025
- General
- Yahoo
Photo of biosecurity threat 'hiding in plain sight' prompts reminder to Aussies
A photo of 25 young cacti has prompted council to issue a serious warning to Aussie residents about the risk of buying and selling invasive species, with serious fines applying if caught. Sunshine Coast Council told Yahoo the cacti in the photo are "destructive invaders" to Australia and issued a reminder today after a non-local vendor was caught selling a range of invasive cacti at an event last July. "These destructive invaders were hiding in plain sight," council said. The species photographed include Blind cactus (Opuntia rufida), Bunny ears cactus (Opuntia microdasys) and Coral cactus (Cylindropuntia fulgida). According to Biosecurity Queensland, all of the species pictured are illegal to grow, keep or sell, and penalties may apply if caught in possession. "In Queensland it is illegal to sell invasive cacti on Gumtree, eBay, Facebook Marketplace, at markets, nurseries, or any marketplace," it said. Council has taken a tough stance on invasive plants in the region, with several new invasive plants added to their hit list for total destruction late last year. 'Many invasive plants were previously sold as garden plants and could be hiding on private properties," Sunshine Coast councillor Maria Suarez told Yahoo News. "Others spread by birds or the wind, finding their way into gardens. From there, they can spread to our creeks, reserves, dunes and other natural areas. "Many can smother native vegetation, others are costly to our farmers and graziers, while some like annual ragweed pose health risks." Yahoo previously reported on the devastating impacts the harrisia cactus has on the environment. It was originally introduced to Queensland as an ornamental plant in the 1800s. Its ability to grow in poor soil and reproduce through seeds or broken segments has seen it proliferate, invading pastures and reducing grazing land for livestock by forming dense thickets that are difficult to remove. Its spines can injure animals, while its fruit, though eaten by some native and introduced animals, helps disperse its seeds, further spreading the infestation. Councillor Tim Burns added everyone plays a role in protecting native species and natural areas — and urged residents to report troublesome weeds. "If you're the person in the know on invasive plants, you can spot a priority weed before it escapes and manage it effectively, or report weeds on Council's eradication and prevention lists," he said. "Managing invasive plants at home means you're helping to protect our unique biodiversity." 🌱 Quiet shift taking place in Aussie gardens creates 'really exciting' trend 🧑🌾 Property owners sound alarm over deadly threat invading landscape 🌿 Poisonous invasive species smothering Aussie orchards Community members were last year urged to be aware of and survey their properties for the identified 'eradication' plants, all off which should be removed or destroyed following an approved method. The added species included drooping tree pear cactus, cane cactus, eve's pin cactus and prohibited cholla cacti — all of which the authorities say present a serious 'risk' — have been identified for eradication under the council's updated biosecurity plan. "These species can do serious damage to our natural spaces and agriculture," council said. "Once they've infested an area it's incredibly difficult and expensive to manage." They encourage Aussies to reach out to their local native nursery instead of purchasing destructive invasive plants. Do you have a story tip? Email: newsroomau@ You can also follow us on Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, Twitter and YouTube.
