Abstract
In this review, we approached various aspects of Opuntia sp., a forage cactus. This plant stand out for its energy potential and have peculiar morphological and physiological features that allow tolerance for long periods of drought. In addition, Opuntia species has a cosmopolitan distribution, found mainly in arid and semi-arid regions. Opuntia sp. presents phenotypic variations related to weather conditions, like polyploidy occurring in a large number of populations and high hybridization capacity. This plant has a shrub morphological characteristic with ramifications, variable size, from creeping until arboreal; it can reach up to 4 m high and a series of fleshy stems with, depending on time of year, flowers and fruits. Opuntia sp. has a typical physiology with the photosynthetic process called crassulacean acid metabolism (CAM); stomata close during the day in order to maintain hydration of tissues. The chemical composition of Opuntia sp. varies according to species, age of reticule, and season. The cactus has excellent nutritional value with high water content (about 90%),
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