How does a barrel cactus survive in the desert?
Barrel cactus, Ferocactus is a genus of large barrel-shaped cacti with about 30 species. Its adaptions to desert: Barrel shaped stems without leaves are water reservoir and photosynthesize. Spines are dense, somewhat obscuring the surface of the stem protecting it from heat, water loss and to be eaten by animals. It flowers sporadically under favorable conditions Fruits are reported to have high nutrient values and are eaten and dispersed by animals ( mule deer and peccary e.g. ), seeds are eaten and dispersed by birds. The root system of barrel cactus is shallow and confined to the upper soil layers. At one site a main anchoring root extended down to about 8 inches, this enables the plant to absorb every available drop of water but also good fixation even in canyons. It is able to branch at the apex after injuries or fires.
