Uses of Opuntia species and the potential impact of Cactoblastis cactorum (Lepidoptera: Pyralidae) in Mexico

Abstract

In Mexico, cactus pears (Opuntia spp.) are regarded as very important plants, especially in semi-arid and arid regions where few crops can be cultivated. Historically, Mexicans have used cactus pears for food, as fodder for cattle, for medicinal purposes, in cosmetics, to produce dyes, and as natural fences. Cactus pears are also an important component of native ecosystems. Central Mexico is considered to be one of the main centers of cactus diversity. Approximately 200 species of Opuntia are recognized worldwide, 114 of which occur in Mexico. Because most Opuntia species are thought to be susceptible to attack by the cactus moth, Cactoblastis cactorum (Berg), spread of this moth into Mexico would likely have significant economic and social impacts. A number of the most widely used and/or distributed species, including O. compressa Macbride, O. ficus-indica (L.) Miller, O. megacantha Salm-Dyck, O. stricta (Haw.) Haworth and O. tomentosa Salm-Dyck, are known hosts of the cactus moth.