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Rising interest in cactus pear as a resilient crop for food, livestock feed, and bioenergy

Originating from Mexico, opuntia ficus-indica (OFI) is recognized for its ability to thrive in climate-challenged environments, offering a multifaceted approach to food production and livestock feed. OFI boasts a comprehensive nutritional profile, encompassing essential vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. Its cladodes are utilized as vegetables, and its fruit is consumed in various forms, including fresh, processed into jams and juices, or fermented into beverages. Additionally, OFI provides a moisture-rich feed for livestock in arid regions, contributing to reduced feeding costs and enhanced productivity. The plant's versatility extends to bioenergy, cosmetics, pharmaceuticals, and bioplastics, elevating its economic significance. OFI's ability to prosper in arid conditions and poor soils, alongside its contribution to soil organic matter and water content improvement, positions it as a key player in combating desertification and soil erosion.

"Amid climate challenges in dryland agriculture, opuntia ficus-indica (OFI) demonstrates remarkable adaptability and resilience", stated Sawsan Hassan, an associate scientist, and forage agronomist at Icarda.

Research indicates a growing interest in OFI, with an increasing number of publications over the last two decades highlighting its agronomic potential in arid regions. The FAO-Icarda International Technical Cooperation Network on Cactus (CactusNet) has been instrumental in this surge of interest by coordinating research activities and fostering collaboration within the cactus research community. However, the study identifies critical research gaps in agronomic practices, cultivar selection, wildlife interference, soil health, and economic viability.

"By emphasizing its value as a nutritious food and feed source, its potential for sustainable agriculture, and its applications in biofuel, fertilizer, and fashion industries, we can spark renewed interest in OFI among researchers and policymakers.," remarked Mounir Louhaichi, Icarda's Research Team Leader of Rangeland Ecology and Forages and a co-author of the study.

Icarda's research in Jordan and India has shed light on OFI's potential for climate resilience, food security, and ecosystem restoration in dry regions. Despite these advancements, the study calls for further research, particularly in the areas of global cultivation extent, productivity metrics, biofuel and fertilizer potential, pest management, and soil health. Addressing these areas is crucial for maximizing OFI's contribution to sustainable agriculture and understanding its economic sustainability.

The study underscores the importance of a collaborative and multidisciplinary approach to fully realize OFI's potential and overcome cultivation challenges. Investing in research and policy support, particularly for cultivation on marginal lands, could significantly enhance OFI's economic benefits and promote its adoption as a resilient crop.

"Establishing comprehensive training programs to educate farmers on OFI cultivation techniques and its benefits is essential for the widespread adoption of this resilient crop," emphasized Sawsan Hassan. The study advocates for the development of networks to facilitate market access for OFI products and promote the crop as a nutritious food source, potentially increasing profitability and encouraging cultivation.

Source: Icarda

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