Opuntia Ficus-indica Research Articles

Cultivation of prickly pear (Opuntia ficus-indica L., family Cactaceae) is of high value in dry-land agriculture in Jordan. In May 2021, symptoms including thickening and severe stunting of the cladodes and deformation of fruits were observed on prickly pear plants cultivated in southern Jordan, Madaba region (31.593565 N, 35.850111 E), with a 15% incidence across three cactus fields. To verify the occurrence of a graft-transmissible disease, wedge grafting was performed on asymptomatic opuntia rootstocks, resulting in thickened cladodes and deformed fruits within five weeks. Samples of cladodes from naturally infected plants were collected from fourteen symptomatic and one asymptomatic plant. A nested polymerase chain reaction (PCR) performed by using primer pair P1/P7 (Deng and Hiruki 1991; Schneider et al. 1995), followed by R16F2n/R16R2 (Gundersen and Lee 1996), amplified a fragment of the expected size only from the symptomatic samples. Direct amplicon sequencing followed by blast comparison to both, GenBank and EPPO-QBank databases (https://qbank.eppo.int/phytoplasmas/) allowed the identification of a ’Candidatus Phytoplasma australasiae=australasiaticum’ strain (GenBank accession no. PQ319761, designated strain ´Cact1´), with a 100% sequence identity to the reference strain (GenBank accession no. Y10097, ribosomal subgroup 16SrII-D) (White et al., 1998; Rodrigues et al., 2023). The phylogenetic analysis of strain ´Cact1´ with phytoplasma strains of ribosomal subgroups in group 16SrII and detected in cactus in China, Italy and Turkey showed that strain ´Cact1´ is not clustering with any of them (Figure 1). Indeed, comparison with all sequences in GenBank, show that the phytoplasma from Jordan clusters with those enclosed in the 16SrII group under the species ‘Ca. P. australasiae=australasiaticum’, showing about 99.00% identity to this phytoplasma and having an identity to ‘Ca. P. aurantifolia=citri’ of about 98.50%, that is below the accepted threshold for ‘Ca. Phytoplasma’ strains differentiation (Bertaccini et al. 2022). This identification was confirmed by amplifying and sequencing the leucyl transfer RNA synthetase (leuS) gene (Abeysinghe et al. 2016) (GenBank accession no. PQ349195), that showed 100% sequence identity with 100% coverage to the Parthenium hysterophorus phyllody phytoplasma strain ´PR08´ from India (GenBank accession no. CP097207), identified as a strain of ‘Ca. P. australasiae=australasiaticum’ (White et al., 1998; Rodrigues et al., 2023). Other phytoplasma strains having 100% identity on the leuS gene but with 95-96% coverage were reported in pearl millet, soybean and alfalfa from India (GenBank accession no. MW020555, MW020562 and MW020559 respectively). The leuS gene sequence has been relevant to confirm the identification of phytoplasmas infecting various agricultural important crops especially in Asian countries (Tiwari et al., 2023). It is thus necessary to investigate insect vector(s) presence and search for other economically important hosts and for alternative host weeds for this phytoplasma considering that the disease and the associated phytoplasmas are present and spreading in other regions of Jordan.

Maximum valorization of red prickly pear peels through green extraction techniques of bioactive compounds and cellulose microfibers.

Nutrition is being increasingly recognized as a modifiable adjuvant factor in symptom management, yet few studies have examined the direct contribution of fruit consumption to chronic disease outcomes. The existing research largely emphasizes broad dietary patterns or isolated nutrients, rather than specific fruit species and their complex bioactive profiles. This gap is particularly evident in conditions lacking disease-specific pharmacological treatments, such as fibromyalgia syndrome (FMS), where patients often depend on lifestyle adjustments and complementary strategies for symptom relief. The therapeutic use of fruits presents methodological challenges, as their biochemical composition is strongly influenced by abiotic and biotic stresses, seasonal and regional variations, as well as post-harvest handling and storage. Such variability complicates reproducibility and obscures causal links in clinical research. While reductionist approaches that isolate single compounds offer dose control, they risk losing synergistic effects inherent to whole fruits. Conversely, whole-fruit consumption preserves integrative complexity but introduces variability. Overcoming these limitations requires rigorous standardization across agricultural, nutritional, and clinical domains, accurate species and cultivar identification, controlled cultivation conditions, chemical fingerprinting, and biomarker validation. In this context, cacti fruits such as Opuntia ficus-indica (prickly pear), which is rich in betalains and polyphenols, emerge as promise adjuvant agents for FMS symptom management. We propose a protocol designed to systematically evaluate their efficacy and feasibility in clinical application, aiming to strengthen the reliability and accuracy of research outcomes.

Evaluation of the Mechanical Properties of Adobe with the Addition of Rice Husk Ash and Opuntia Ficus-Indica

Invasive plant species threaten biodiversity, ecosystem stability, and agricultural productivity by outcompeting native flora and altering ecological processes. Opuntia ficus-indica is a highly invasive species that has established itself across arid and semi-arid regions due to its resilience to extreme environmental conditions and rapid vegetative propagation. This study employs ecological niche modeling (ENM) with MaxEnt to assess the current and future distribution of O. ficus-indica in Saudi Arabia. Occurrence records were compiled from field surveys, literature, and biodiversity databases. Occurrence records were compiled from field surveys, literature, and global biodiversity databases. Nineteen bioclimatic, ten soil, and three topographic variables were initially selected, and six key predictors were retained after multicollinearity reduction and Jackknife testing. Model performance was validated using the area under the curve (AUC) and partial ROC to ensure predictive accuracy. The most influential environmental predictors shaping its distribution were maximum temperature of the warmest month (bio5), NDVI, precipitation of the wettest month (bio14), mean temperature of the warmest quarter (bio10), soil organic carbon (SOC), and soil pH. The results indicate that the current distribution of O. ficus-indica is concentrated in southwestern Saudi Arabia, particularly in regions with moderate precipitation and temperature. Future climate projections (SSP245 and SSP585) suggest a northward and inland expansion, with increasing habitat suitability in Najran, Al Qassim, and central Riyadh, while certain highly suitable areas in the southwest may decline due to extreme warming. These findings highlight the potential ecological risks posed by climate-driven invasion and underscore the need for proactive management strategies. Integrated control measures, including mechanical removal, biological control, habitat restoration, and policy interventions, are recommended to mitigate its spread. This study provides a scientific basis for policymakers and conservationists to develop effective invasion management plans, ensuring the protection of native ecosystems in the face of climate change.

The increasing interest in sustainable and cost-effective options for containerized plant cultivation has driven research into the use of agricultural by-products and waste as alternative growing media. Cactus pear (Opuntia ficus-indica (L.) Mill.) pruning residuals, abundant in Mediterranean regions, represent a potential renewable resource. This study aimed to evaluate the suitability of cactus pear pruning residuals, enriched with calcium (Ca²⁺), iron (Fe²⁺ and Fe³⁺) ions, as a growing medium for basil (Ocimum basilicum L.) cultivation, with a focus on plant growth. From pots under greenhouse conditions, growth parameters (plant height, leaf area, number of leaves), chlorophyll content (SPAD), phosphorus availability in substrates (Olsen), and volatile compounds in leaves (HS-SPME coupled with GC-MS) were measured. Results suggest that incorporation of Ca- and Fe-enriched substrates significantly improved basil growth, with leading to better nutrient assimilation and higher growth metrics (plant height +23%; number of leaves +17%; leaf area +67%) compared to the untreated cactus pear substrate. Plants grown in Fe-enriched substrates exhibited increased plant height (+14%), leaf area (+48%), and number of leaves (+14%), along with improved phosphorus availability, compared to Ca2+ enrichments. The addition of 5% Fe3+ enriched cactus pear to the substrate resulted in increased plant height (+20%), number of leaves (+22%), and leaf area (+29%) compared to the control. Cactus pear pruning residuals, when enriched with Fe3+, show significant promise as a sustainable and cost-effective alternative to conventional growing media for basil cultivation, particularly in Mediterranean environments.

Dactylopius opuntiae, the invasive cactus cochineal, is a major pest threatening Opuntia ficus-indica cultivation, especially in arid regions. This study assesses the insecticidal and antibacterial properties of essential oils (EOs) from Lavandula angustifolia (lavender) and Thymus vulgaris (thyme) as eco-friendly biocontrol agents. Laboratory (in vitro) and greenhouse (in vivo) tests were performed using emulsified EOs at 1%, 5%, and 10% concentrations. In vitro tests showed that lavender EO caused 95.0 ± 3.0% mortality in nymphs and adult females of D. opuntiae at 10% after 8 days, with an LT₅₀ of 3.0 days. Thyme EO was slightly less effective (90.0 ± 3.5%, LT₅₀ = 3.5 days). Greenhouse experiments indicated reduced but significant efficacy (85.5 ± 4.0% and 80.0 ± 4.5% mortality for lavender and thyme EOs at 10%, respectively). Disk diffusion and broth microdilution tests against Proteus penneri showed that thyme EO had stronger antibacterial activity (MIC = 0.625%, MBC = 1.25%) than lavender EO (MIC = 1.25%, MBC = 2.5%), both with bactericidal effects. These findings demonstrate the dual insecticidal and antibacterial potential of lavender and thyme EOs, supporting their inclusion in Integrated Pest Management (IPM) programs. Further research is needed to evaluate their field persistence, effects on non-target organisms, and formulation stability for sustainable cactus pest control.

SUMMARYResearch backgroundCactus pear (Opuntia ficus-indica) is an excellent source of polysaccharides and bioactive compounds with remarkable health benefits. The mucilage of the cactus pear, which consists mainly of water and complex carbohydrates, has properties similar to gum due to its unique physiological properties. Recently, plant-derived mucilage has gained significant attention in the dairy industry for its potential as a natural thickening and colloidal stabilizing agent.Experimental approachThis study investigates the use of freeze-dried cactus pear cladode pulp from Opuntia ficus-indica L. Miller as a source of mucilage and its interaction with a commercial stabilizer on the physical properties of low-fat cocoa ice cream (3.0 % fat). The study evaluates the influence of cactus pear cladode pulp on the physicochemical properties and technological parameters of the ice cream. Ice cream samples containing 1.0, 1.5 and 2.0 % cactus pear cladode pulp were compared with a control sample (without cactus pear cladode pulp).Results and conclusionsThe results show that cactus pear cladode pulp is rich in fiber and phenolic compounds and has significant technological potential due to its water absorption capacity (WAC), water solubility index (WSI) and oil absorption capacity (OAC). The addition of cactus pear cladode pulp lowered the pH of the ice cream, improved its darkness and yellowness, increased the overrun and delayed the melting process. These results suggest that cactus pear cladode pulp works synergistically with the commercial stabilizer, highlighting its potential as a natural fat substitute and stabilizer for low-fat ice cream formulations.Novelty and scientific contributionThis study represents pioneering research into the use of freeze-dried Opuntia ficus-indica cladode pulp in the production of ice cream. The results offer valuable insights for the ice cream industry and provide a natural alternative for stabilizers and fat substitutes.

ABSTRACT The cactus pear (Opuntia ficus-indica) has garnered attention for its potential to enhance sustainability in semi-arid regions. The aim of this study was to examine the impact of various agronomic practices, including planting time, irrigation, and farmyard manure (FYM) application, on soil microbial communities, enzymatic activity, carbon management indices, and soil quality in cactus pear (Opuntia ficus-indica) cultivation under the semi-arid climate of India. The study was conducted from 2016 to 2023 in Jhansi, India, assessing four planting periods (February, April, July, and October) and two agronomic management strategies (with or without fertilizer and irrigation). Various parameters, including microbial populations, enzymatic activity, nutrient availability, organic carbon content, carbon fractions, and soil quality indices, were evaluated. The results indicated that planting in July, combined with FYM (2 kg plant−1) and irrigation, significantly improved microbial populations (~18–44%), enzymatic activity (~2–33%), carbon indices (~32%), and nutrient availability (~0.75–4.75%) compared to the control. This combination of practices also enhanced organic carbon content in the soil. The treatments involving FYM and irrigation outperformed the controls in all parameters, showing improvements in organic carbon levels, carbon fractions, carbon management index, and the overall soil quality index. The study concludes that optimal agronomic practices, particularly planting in July with the application of FYM (2 kg plant−1) and irrigation, are key to improving the sustainability and ecological health of cactus pear cultivation in semi-arid regions. These practices not only enhance soil quality and microbial activity but also contribute to climate change mitigation through improved carbon management.

A novel actinomycete, designated as strain OS1-43T, was isolated from the rhizosphere soil of a cactus (Opuntia ficus-indica) in Mara Island, Jeju, Republic of Korea and the taxonomic position was unraveled by a polyphasic approach. A 16S rRNA gene-based phylogenetic analysis showed that strain OS1-43T belonged to the genus Actinomadura and was closely associated with Actinomadura xylanilytica BK147T. Morphological and chemotaxonomic characteristics supported the affiliation of strain OS1-43T to the genus Actinomadura. The calculation of 16S rRNA gene sequence similarity showed that strain OS1-43T revealed the highest sequence identity with Actinomadura violacea LCR2-06T (99.1%), followed by Actinomadura xylanilytica BK147T (98.9%). Core gene-based phylogenomic tree revealed that strain OS1-43T formed an independent lineage within the genus Actinomadura and well separated from representatives of this genus. The genome of strain OS1-43T revealed the highest OrthoANIu and dDDH values with Actinomadura montaniterrae CYP1-1BT (90.1 and 40%, respectively), followed by Actinomadura physcomitrii LD22T (89.8 and 38.7%, respectively), Actinomadura nitritigenes L46T (89.8 and 38.6%, respectively), and Actinomadura violacea LCR2-06T (89.7 and 38.1%, respectively), albeit that the former three type strains showed low 16S rRNA gene sequence similarities (97.5-98.0%) with strain OS1-43T. Based on the results of phenotypic and phylogenetic analyses, and the values of overall genomic relatedness indices, strain OS1-43T (= KACC 19750T = NBRC 114686T) represents a new species of the genus Actinomadura, for which the name Actinomadura opuntiae sp. nov. is proposed. Also, the results of genome analysis in addition to similar phenotypic features support the reclassification of Actinomadura namibiensis Wink et al. 2003 as a later heterotypic synonym of Actinomadura kijaniata Horan and Brodsky 1982.

The nutritional, mineral, and bioactive profiles of four Opuntia fruit varieties—Opuntia robusta red variety (OR-RV) and three Opuntia ficus-indica varieties (red, yellow, and green: OFI-RV, OFI-YV, and OFI-GV, respectively)—were characterized to assess their compositional diversity and potential discriminant markers. Standard analytical procedures were applied to determine proximate composition, individual sugars, fibre content, mineral concentration, and bioactive compounds, followed by antioxidant activity assays. Principal Component Analysis (PCA) and Linear Discriminant Analysis (LDA) were used to explore multivariate patterns and identify variables with the greatest discriminatory power. Results revealed significant inter-varietal differences across all measured parameters (p < 0.05). OR-RV displayed the highest non-fibre carbohydrate, protein, copper, and ascorbic acid contents, as well as superior antioxidant activity. OFI-GV stood out for its high soluble and insoluble fibre, magnesium, and strontium levels, while OFI-YV was characterized by elevated sodium and calcium, and OFI-RV by increased protein and glucose contents. LDA identified ascorbic acid, protein, and five mineral elements (Sr, Zn, Cu, Mn, B) as key discriminant variables, achieving 100% classification accuracy. These findings highlight compositional diversity among Opuntia varieties and support their differentiated use in food and health applications.

Background and aimSynthetic dyes in the textile industry pose risks to human health and environmental safety. The current study aims to examine the efficacy of a novel esterase derived from an endophyte fungus in decolorizing diverse dyes, focusing on its production, purification, optimization, and characterization.ResultsTrichoderma afroharzianum AUMC16433, a novel fungal endophyte with esterase-producing ability, was first detected from the cladodes of Opuntia ficus indica by ITS-rRNA sequencing. Furthermore, several fermentation variables that augment esterase production were improved by utilising the Plackett-Burman design and RSM. Ammonium sulphate precipitation at 60% and Sephacryl S300 HR gel filtration were employed to purify the isolated esterase to a specific activity of 1372.1 U/mg with a 2.29-fold increase and a recovery of 42.87%. The enzyme’s molecular weight was ascertained to be 43 kDa via SDS-PAGE. The isolated esterase revealed peak activity at 40 °C and pH 8. The kinetic characteristics of esterase were Vmax = 2.717 U/mL and Km = 3.33 mM. The half-life time was 54.4% at 50 °C after 4 h, and the enzyme still retained 14.7% of its activity after 24 h at 50 °C. Esterase decolorized several synthetic dyes used industrially, with the highest decolorization rate in malachite green after 24 h with 66%, and successfully degraded both bromothymol blue and tartrazine with 65.5% and 65.3%, respectively, in the same time frame. Crystal violet and methyl red showed moderate decolorization, with decolorization rates of 57.1% and 43.1%, respectively.ConclusionsThe esterase enzyme isolated for the first time from the new endophytic Trichoderma afroharzianum has a high dyes decolorization potential, which offers it a sustainable strategy for addressing environmental contamination issuesGraphical abstractSupplementary InformationThe online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s12934-025-02832-8.

Capacity of hazelnut cake to produce betalain-rich microparticles from Opuntia ficus-indica, compared to conventional encapsulants.

Development of nanoemulgel system based on Opuntia ficus-indica (L.) seed oil and nanoclays: Formulation, characterization and application for wound treatment

Eco-friendly zinc oxide nanoparticles from Opuntia ficus-indica: a dual antibacterial and anticancer approach

Production of lime finishes using fermented Opuntia ficus indica extract: A sustainable and multifunctional binder for Indian lime-built heritage structures

This study investigates the phenolic composition and antioxidant potential of root extracts from three Opuntia ficus-indica varieties (green, red, and orange) using ultra-high-performance liquid chromatography coupled with diode array detection and electrospray ionization–tandem mass spectrometry (UHPLC-DAD-ESI-MS/MS). Phenolic compounds were extracted with a hydromethanolic solvent and quantified by spectrophotometric assays, while antioxidant activity was assessed through DPPH, ABTS, iron III reduction, hydroxyl radical, and nitric oxide scavenging methods. A total of 26 compounds were identified, including piscidic acid, epicatechin-3-O-gallate, and isovitexin, with several phenolics newly reported for O. ficus-indica roots. The green and red varieties showed the highest phenolic contents (up to 147.82 mg/g extract) and strong antioxidant capacity, particularly in ABTS (IC50 = 29.38 μg/mL) and hydroxyl radical inhibition (>90%). Relative Antioxidant Capacity Index (RACI) analysis confirmed a consistent correlation between phenolic/flavonoid content and antioxidant efficacy. These findings highlight the analytical relevance of UHPLC-DAD-ESI-MS/MS for profiling underutilized plant matrices and support the potential use of O. ficus-indica root extracts as natural sources of bioactive compounds for pharmaceutical and biomedical applications.

Diseases such as obesity and metabolic-dysfunction-associated fatty liver disease (MAFLD) are often associated with changes in gut microbiota composition. The present study aims to investigate the relationship between the potential preventive effects of an Opuntia ficus-indica var. colorada cactus pulp extract on obesity and hepatic steatosis, and changes in gut microbiota composition, in a murine model fed a high-fat high-fructose diet. The low-dose extract was the most effective in reducing hepatic TG (−12.5%) and the weight of subcutaneous and visceral adipose tissue (−18.4% and 11.4%, respectively), while the high dose led to improved serum lipid profile (−74.2% in TG, −37.2% in total cholesterol, −50.5% in non-HDL cholesterol and +71.7% in HDL cholesterol). Opuntia extract supplementation did not prevent the dysbiosis in gut microbiota produced by the high-fat high-fructose diet. However, modifications in its composition, consistent with an increment in both Adlercreutzia muris and Cutibacterium acnes, and a reduction in Massiliimalia timonensis, were observed. It can be proposed that these changes may contribute to the extract effects against obesity and liver steatosis. Nevertheless, further research is required to establish a direct link between the anti-obesity and anti-steatotic effects and the functionality of the bacteria modified by the treatment.

The spineless cactus pear (Opuntia ficus-indica) mucilage is a physically slimy, green extract that is sourced from the cladodes (modified stems) of the crop. The mucilage can be freeze-dried into a powder, and this powder has shown potential to be considered as a novel functional food biopolymer because it exhibits good functional properties, especially with regard to emulsification. The main objective of this study was to investigate whether nitrogen fertilisation had an effect on the functionality of O. ficus-indica (L.) Mill ‘Morado’ mucilage. The functionality of the mucilage was attributed to its protein content. Nitrogen is one of the main elements in soil that makes up proteins. Nitrogen fertilisers from three nitrogen sources (urea, limestone ammonium nitrate, and ammonium sulfate) were applied at four application levels (0 kg/ha, 60 kg/ha, 120 kg/ha and 240 kg/ha). The functionality of mucilage was also compared to high-protein content commercial food biopolymers known to have good functional properties. Of the parameters tested, the oil-holding and oil-absorption capacities of the mucilage were significantly affected by nitrogen fertilisation. Scanning electron microscopy revealed that all freeze-dried mucilage samples resembled broken glass or showed a flake-like structure. Different nitrogen fertilisation sources and levels appeared to have no visible morphological implications on the different freeze-dried mucilage samples evaluated.

Cactus pear (Opuntia ficus-indica) plays a crucial role in Tigray, Ethiopia, serving as a vital source of food, fodder, and household income. In 2004, the cochineal insect (Dactylopius coccus) was introduced with the intention of enhancing the economic value of cactus pear. However, the insect quickly became invasive, decimating vast areas of cactus pear and severely impacting the livelihoods of local communities. The rapid spread of the cochineal insect was largely due to a lack of prior knowledge about its biology and the absence of environmental impact assessments before its introduction. Additionally, the out-grower scheme associated with the cochineal trade contributed to the unregulated spread of the pest, both natural and through human activity. Favorable conditions—such as prolonged dry spells, an abundance of cactus pear, and a lack of natural predators—further accelerated the insect’s colonization and expansion. Attempts to control the infestation through community mobilization and insecticide applications proved largely ineffective. The suspension of cochineal harvesting is also believed to have worsened the situation. Today, over 75% of the cactus pear cultivation area is affected. Surveys conducted over several years have identified three indigenous predators of the cochineal insect, but their populations remain low. The laboratory evaluations of exotic natural enemies have not shown promising results. Similarly, efforts to find resistance within local cactus pear populations have been unsuccessful. On a more positive note, four introduced cactus pear varieties have demonstrated strong resistance in both laboratory and field conditions. In addition, some farmers have developed effective local management practices for cochineal control. The combined application of resistant cactus pear varieties and these locally developed practices offers a practical pathway to prevent destruction of the crop. Although complete eradication of the cochineal insect may not be feasible, the challenge presents a unique opportunity, producing cochineal under controlled conditions could position Ethiopia as a strong competitor in the global cochineal market. This paper explores the economic and environmental impacts of the cochineal invasion, reviews the responses and lessons learned, and presents recommendations for sustainable pest management.