Integrating
Crop/Livestock Production Systems in the Low-Rainfall Areas of West Asia and
North Africa
Success
Stories
Cactus in Tunisia:
A Wonder Plant (Part 2)
The
video clips on this site are made soundless for web use. The original video
is available in broadcast quality DVCAM format for use in covering ICARDA's
research and development activities. Contact S.Varma@CGIAR.ORG
6
Using cactus for fencing.Cactus is also a cheap, versatile fencing plant.
These cactus pods will grow into tall, multi-padded plants that will keep this
woman’s rabbits safe from dogs, and comfortable in the shade. In time the
fence will be trimmed to provide feed for sheep.
7
Rehabilitating the rangeland with cactus plantation. In many places in the
world’s dry areas, over-grazing has led to deterioration of rangeland.
These cactus pads, planted in rows, will stabilize the soil and create an improved
microclimate, which in turn will promote plant growth.
8
Harvesting and transporting cactus to other farmers. The cactus pads this
farmer is loading onto his truck will be sold to other farmers. They were harvested
from a cactus fruit plantation in rangeland that was need of rehabilitation.
All the pads were removed and the plants were cut close to the ground.
10
Other products from cactus. Cactus fruit can be eaten fresh, or processed
into jelly, jam, oil, juice, and fermented drink, to name just a few products.
Dr Ali Nefzaoui of the National Institute of Agricultural Research, Tunisia,
shows off a high-fiber breakfast cereal that includes cactus. Cactus has also
been used to treat gastritis and diabetes, and to reduce cholesterol and triglycerides.
Vibrant cochineal dye is another product made from cactus—actually from
the dried bodies of female cochineal, a tiny scale insect that feeds on cactus.
9
Cactus flower. When the plants grow back, in about three years, their productivity
will be much improved. Fruits from this plantation are exported to France and
other countries.
