Adapting to Climate Change with Opuntia

• Type: Another Publication in an International Scientific Journal
• Date: 2023

Authors

Jorge, AOS (Author) Other; Costa, ASG (Author) Other; Beatriz B P P Oliveira (Author) FFUP

Journal

Title: Plants

Vol. 29

Final page: 2907

Publisher: MDPI

Indexing

ISI Web of Knowledge - 0 Citations

Scopus - 0 Citations

Other information

Authenticus ID: P-00Y-T81

DOI: 10.3390/plants12162907

Abstract (EN): Adapting our food production chain and increasing the flora and fauna's livelihood in climate change-affected areas using Opuntia is not only theoretical but already exists in practice in many places. This cactus grows in unsuitable soil for most species as it is adapted to arid and semi-arid soils and hot weather. In these regions, Opuntia protects from erosion and contributes to soil health. The usage of this plant as fodder is also discussed, with immense potential in substituting a part of livestock's diet and even increasing the quality of the animal's by-products and decreasing water consumption. This would result in a feed that is low-cost and has a lower environmental impact. It is to be noted that Opuntia has a high potential as an invasive species, with caution always being recommended when dealing with this specie. The high content of specific compounds, such as proline, indicaxanthin, and betanin, found in Opuntia ficus-indica, influence the plant's adaptation to unfavourable conditions. This collective evidence depicts Opuntia as a crop that can battle climate change and ensure food security.

Language: English

Type (Professor's evaluation): Scientific

No. of pages: 14