Opuntia Research Articles

Abstract The objective of the study was to evaluate the fermentation characteristics, losses, aerobic stability, and nutritive value of the silage of three cultivars of cactus pear {‘Orelha de Elefante Mexicana’ - OEM ( Opuntia sp.), ‘IPA Sertânia’ and ‘Miúda’ [ Nopalea cochenillifera (L.) Salm Dyck.]} mixed with three levels of inclusion of Leucaena [ Leucaena leucocephala (Lam.) de Wit] hay (0, 15, and 30%). The design was completely randomized in a 3×3 factorial arrangement, corresponding to cactus pear varieties and Leucaena hay levels, with four replications. Gas and effluent losses, pH, organic acids, aerobic stability, and nutritional value of silages were evaluated. The silages of the cultivar OEM without the inclusion of Leucaena hay had a higher pH (4.95) compared to Miúda (4.11) and IPA Sertânia (4.17). The aerobic stability was maintained for more than 60h after opening the silos. The inclusion of Leucaena hay (up to 30%) increased the pH and reduced losses by effluents without compromising the fermentative characteristics of the silages, indicated by the predominance of lactic acid (93 g/kg).

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.

Searching sustainable management techniques to enhance plant resistance to drought is crucial for agriculture in stressful scenarios. This study aimed to investigate the role of Plant Growth-Promoting Bacteria (PGPB) strains on forage cactus pear performance under drought. Trials were conducted in greenhouse using forage cactus plants in randomized block experimental design, 8 × 2 factorial scheme, consisting of eight inoculation treatments [inoculation with Paenibacillus sp. IPACC38 and IPACC55, and Bacillus subtilis IPACC29 strains combined with and without nitrogen (N) fertilization] and two water regimes [control at 50% field capacity (FC) and drought at 25% FC]. Drought significantly decreased plant growth across all treatments, regardless of N/inoculation treatment. The best performance under drought was observed in plants grown without N and inoculated with IPACC29 and IPACC38 strains. Improved performance under drought was closely related to PGPB’s capacity to provide N accumulation for strategic photosynthetic pigments content, resulting in better root growth and plant development. Our findings reveal that IPACC29 and IPACC38 are the most promising PGPB strains for inoculating forage cactus pear, activating important defense responses against drought. This system offers alternative for cultivating cactus under water restriction and reduced N availability to increase green forage biomass production in dry regions.Supplementary InformationThe online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1038/s41598-025-20509-5.

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.

ABSTRACTThe Opuntia genus exhibits several mechanisms that support liver function. Due to its richness in phenolic compounds, our study highlights the hepatoprotective potential of Opuntia ficus‐indica cladode juice in mitigating nickel‐induced liver injury. The polyphenol content was determined using spectrophotometric analysis and HPLC‐MS. Experimental hepatotoxicity was induced by intraperitoneal (i.p.) injection of NiSO4. To assess the hepatoprotective effects of cladode juice, various analyses were performed to evaluate its impact on enzymatic activity, serum biomarkers, oxidative stress markers, and liver tissue structure. Quantification of phenolic compounds confirmed the presence of total polyphenols and flavonoids. Chromatographic analysis identified p‐coumaric acid, piscidic acid, isorhamnetin‐3‐O‐neohesperoside, and ellagic acid as the major phenolic constituents. Cladode juice exhibited a hepatoprotective effect in rats intoxicated with nickel sulfate (NiSO4), as evidenced by the modulation of plasma hepatic biomarkers, restoration of oxidative stress marker levels, and a marked reduction in hepatic lesions observed through histological analysis. Molecular docking studies of the four identified polyphenolic compounds with alanine transaminase revealed a higher binding affinity for ellagic acid, followed by p‐coumaric acid. These beneficial effects are attributed to the plant's diverse bioactive compounds, highlighting their potential to mitigate oxidative damage and support liver function.

The rehydration of the grain for the fermentation process appears as an alternative to reduce losses and better nutritional use. The objective of this work was to evaluate the fermentative characteristics of millet grain silage rehydrated with moisture from cactus pear. The work was carried out in a completely randomized design with 5 treatments, given by the days the silage was opened, and 3 replications. The results obtained were subjected to analysis of variance and the means compared using the Tukey test at 5% probability using the SAS 2001 statistical program. The values ​​of pH, RMS and silo temperature did not show significant effects (p>0, 05), while the values ​​of silo mass, ensiled mass, ambient temperature, MS%, density and PE showed significant variation (p<0.05). Under the conditions under which the experiment was carried out, the fermentation in the silo was not ideal, making it impossible to use it in animal feed.

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.

Background/Objectives: Nopalea cochenillifera (L.) Salm-Dyck cladodes are rich in dietary fiber, polyphenols, and minerals, which are known to exert antioxidant and immunomodulatory effects. However, the mechanisms and active constituents have not been fully elucidated. In this study, we investigated the effects of continuous N. cochenillifera consumption on lipid metabolism, immune function, and the gut microbiota in mice. Methods: The feed was made using freeze-dried and powdered cladodes of N. cochenillifera. Male C57BL/6J mice were assigned to four groups: control diet (C), control diet plus 10% N. cochenillifera (CN), high-fat diet (FC), and high-fat diet plus 10% N. cochenillifera (FN). Results: Cactus supplementation reduced the body and liver weights that were elevated by the high-fat diet. Serum total cholesterol and free fatty acids were increased in the FC group compared with the C group, while cactus intake lowered these levels and enhanced fecal cholesterol excretion. Cactus consumption also elevated fecal total IgA and mucin contents. IL-4 expression in Peyer's patches was significantly increased in the FN group compared with the FC group. Gut microbiota analysis showed significant differences in β-diversity, along with increased α-diversity and higher abundance of Lachnospiraceae, following cactus intake. Conclusions: These findings suggest that N. cochenillifera intake increases gut microbiota diversity, which enhances intestinal barrier function and thereby contributes to improved lipid metabolism and immune regulation.

ABSTRACTThe current study aimed to evaluate the impact of incorporating cactus pear pulp (CPP) at various concentrations (2%, 4%, 6%, 8%, and 10% w/w) levels on the physicochemical, functional, LAB, and sensory attributes of stirred buffalo milk yogurt during refrigerated storage over 21 days. The results revealed that all measured qualitative attributes of yogurt samples were significantly (p < 0.05) affected by the CPP concentrations and storage durations. The study showed that adding CPP to yogurt led to an increase in pH and a decreasing trend in acidity. The CPP yogurt samples (10% CPP) exhibited the highest pH (4.97) on Day 1. Significantly high (p < 0.05) titratable acidity was recorded in the control sample on Day 21 during storage. Syneresis susceptibility was reduced in 10% CPP added yogurt samples and demonstrated the lowest values (30.36) on 1st day of storage. Significantly (p < 0.05) enhanced water‐holding capacity (68.59%) in the yogurt supplemented with 10% CPP was observed. Increasing the amount of CPP in yogurt resulted in a constant increase in water‐holding capacity, while simultaneously lowering syneresis across the storage period. Functional parameters including total phenolic content and antioxidant activity showed a significant dose‐dependent increase and decreasing trend as a function of storage period. On the first storage day, yogurt samples having 10% CPP had the highest total phenolic content (8.22 mg GAE/100 g) and DPPH scavenging activity (83.45%). The viable count of LAB showed a substantial rise in CPP added yogurt samples on 1st day of storage, while a gradual decline was noted over the storage period in all treatments. Significant differences in sensory properties were observed among the samples; however, yogurt containing 4% CPP emerged as the most acceptable formulation based on sensory profiling. The findings concluded that adding CPP considerably enhanced the physicochemical, functional, LAB, and sensory attributes of yogurt samples.

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.

Development of alternative plant-based culture media using cactus pear cladodes for oyster mushroom (Pleurotus ostreatus) growth

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.

Some bacterial taxa, such as Bacillus and Paenibacillus, are known to colonize the rhizosphere and promote plant growth. However, little is known about their effect on microbial biomass and enzymatic activity in the rhizosphere of plants under semi-arid conditions. This field study assessed the effects of B. subtilis and Paenibacillus sp. in the rhizosphere of two prickly-pear cactus genotypes on microbial biomass of C, N, and P, and on enzymatic activity during early and late growth stages. The analysis of variance showed that microbial biomass and enzymatic activity were significantly influenced by the interaction between PGPB taxa (B. subtilis and Paenibacillus sp.), prickly-pear cactus genotypes ('Baiana' and 'Doce'), and plant growth stage (90 and 270 days). Specifically, PGPB inoculation increased microbial biomass P, β-glucosidase, and acid phosphatase, while microbial biomass of C and N were primarily driven by differences between cactus genotypes 'Baiana' and 'Doce'. At the early growth stage (90 days), the highest values of microbial biomass C, P, and acid phosphatase were observed, whereas N biomass was higher at the later stage (270 days). B. subtilis increased microbial biomass P in the 'Doce' genotype and acid phosphatase in 'Baiana,' while Paenibacillus sp. increased β-glucosidase in 'Baiana.' The combination of the 'Doce' genotype with B. subtilis enhanced phosphorus availability, suggesting that specific plant-microbe interactions may benefit nutrient acquisition in arid, nutrient-poor soils; however, further research is needed to confirm whether this effect extends to other genotypes.

Morphological, Physical, and Chemical Characterization of Cactus Pear (Opuntia Ficus-indica [L.] Mill.) Fruits from Progressive Out-of-Season Harvests

Opuntia ficus-indica L. (Mill) belongs to the Cactaceae family. The plant produces edible and juicy fruits called cactus pear, recognized for their pleasant flavor and functional properties. However, the fruits have a short shelf life, hard seeds, and the presence of glochidia in the pericarpel. Recently, by inducing parthenocarpy, seedless fruits of cactus pear have been obtained. They have attractive colors, soft and small seminal residues, with a similar flavor to their original seeded counterparts. Nevertheless, their postharvest physiological behavior has not yet been documented. The aim of this study was to compare the biochemical, anatomical, and physiological characteristics of pollinated fruits, CP30 red and CP40 yellow varieties, with their parthenocarpic counterparts (CP30-P and CP40-P), obtained by the application of growth regulators in preanthesis. Fruits of each type were harvested at horticultural maturity, and analyses were carried out on both pulp and pericarpel (peel), using a completely randomized design. Results showed that red fruits CP30 and CP30-P showed higher concentrations of betacyanins in pulp (13.4 and 18.4 mg 100 g-1 FW) and in pericarpel (25.9 and 24.1 mg 100 g-1 FW), respectively; flavonoid content was significantly higher in partenocarpic fruits compared with the pollinated ones. Parthenocarpy mainly affected the shelf life, in pollinated fruits, CP30 was 14 days but 32 days in CP30-P; for CP40, it was 16 days, and 30 days in CP40-P. Also, the partenocarpic fruits were smaller but with a thicker pericarpel, and lower stomatal frequency. Overall, parthenocarpic fruits represent a viable alternative for commercial production due to their extended shelf life, lower weight loss, and soft but edible pericarpel.

Significant variations in global temperatures and weather patterns over time are known as climate change. Although it occurs naturally, human activities—particularly the burning of fossil fuels, deforestation, and industrial processes—are accelerating these changes, which have various detrimental effects on the environment. This review aims to highlight the edapho-climatic requirements of this cactus and the advantages and challenges of its cultivation to mitigate climate change. The prickly pear cactus is a plant with numerous financial and environmental advantages. It needs well-draining, sandy or gravelly soil to avoid root rot and do best in full sun. With a strong tolerance for dryness, they thrive in arid or semi-arid regions with scorching summers and prefer sparing watering. Despite being suited to tropical climates, some species can tolerate freezing temperatures and sporadic frost. Once established, these hardy plants require little care and thrive in nutrient-poor soils, which makes them perfect for xeriscaping or challenging growing environments. Because of its high water use efficiency ratio and low water requirements, prickly pear can be grown in marginally dry and semi-arid areas. The cactus does contribute to the ecological and socioeconomic fight against climate change. For instance, it supports sustainable agriculture, biodiversity preservation, soil restoration, carbon sequestration, and effective water usage. Demarcating dry and semi-arid zones and fostering employment in these areas is beneficial from a socioeconomic standpoint. The prickly pear's traditional cultural heritage supports its current economic function as a crop that can withstand drought. While ecological threats necessitate balanced management, this adaptability promotes sustainable growth. Innovations in bioenergy and value-added goods build on its historical applications, increasing its socioeconomic advantages and, eventually, its worldwide significance.

Abstract Water decontamination remains a challenge in many developing and developed countries. And thus, efficient and affordable approaches are urgently needed. In this research work, a heterogeneous photocatalyst of Ag@CuO nanocomposites (NCs) has been successfully biogenic synthesized using Cactus pears extracts for the decomposition of methylene blue (MB) under visible light irradiation. The obtained nanocomposites consisted of plasmonic silver (Ag) NPs embedded in a semiconductor matrix of copper oxide (CuO). The scanning electron microscopy (SEM), X-ray diffraction (XRD), energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDX), and Rutherford backscattering spectrometry (RBS) were employed to characterize the morphology, and microstructures of the samples. The SEM images of Ag@CuO NCs confirm the presence of better dispersibility of Ag nanoparticles (NPs) in the nanorod-like surface of CuO. XRD patterns revealed a well-crystalline nature of monoclinic phase of CuO and face centered cubic (fcc) of Ag metal, and EDX spectra confirms the compositions of the nanocomposites. The FT-IR confirmed the secondary metabolites in Cactus pears for the formation of Ag NPs, and Ag@CuO NCs. The Brunauer-Emmett-Teller (BET) surface area of CuO NPs, and Ag@CuO NCs were achieved from N2 adsorption/desorption isotherm and revealed a specific area of 8.67 m2 g−1 and 15.14 m2 g−1, respectively with a mesoporous nature. The heterogeneous biogenic Ag@CuO NCs was evaluated for the photocatalytic degradation of methylene blue (MB) dye upon light irradiation and demonstrated higher degradation kinetics rate (k = 0.0578 min−1) compared to CuO (k = 0.0362 min−1). The superior photocatalysis activity of Ag@CuO NCs is ascribed to the synergistic effects of enhanced light absorption, higher adsorption capacity, improved charge-separation and high surface area. Graphical Abstract

Abstract The cochineal insect, Dactylopius opuntiae (Hemiptera: Dactylopiidae) was recorded for the first time in Misserghin (Oran) in 2024. This species was collected from severely infested cladodes on prickly pear cacti across several localities in the north part of Misserghin. The samples were identified both morphologically and molecularly, using two mitochondrial gene markers, – cytochrome C oxidase subunit I and II (COI) as well as 28S rDNA marker. The survey revealed that this recently introduced species is now widespread in the North-West of the country and that the damages are very severe on cladodes and fruits. Further surveys are recommended to assess the full extent of its distribution and to identify potential natural enemies of D. opuntiae in Algeria.

An orange-coloured yeast strain was recently isolated from rotted leaves in Zunyi City, Guizhou Province, PR China. Phylogenetic analysis revealed that this strain shares identical or similar sequences with no more than two to three nucleotide substitutions in both the 26S rDNA D1/D2 domains and the internal transcribed spacer (ITS) region with three other strains isolated from decayed wood in Indonesia, mushroom in Thailand and a plant of the genus Opuntia in the Bahamas. Therefore, these strains are conspecific. And they are most closely related to Rhodotorula paludigena but exhibit sequence divergences of 2.1-2.6% in the 26S rDNA D1/D2 domains and 2.9-3.2% in the ITS region. Physiologically, strain CGMCC 2.7770 differs from R. paludigena in its ability to assimilate maltose, l-arabinose and citric acid. Both the phylogenetic analysis and phenotypic characteristics indicate that those four strains represent a novel species in the genus Rhodotorula, for which the name Rhodotorula silvicola sp. nov. is proposed (holotype CGMCC 2.7770T).