Native to dry tropical regions, cacti possess remarkable resilience. Due to people's fascination with this unique plants, they have been cultivated worldwide.

Renowned for their ability to withstand drought and minimal care, they are commonly utilized as decorative household plants.

Some enthusiasts also assert that cacti have air-purifying and anti-radiation properties, and they can be consumed and used medicinally. Despite their unassuming appearance, their practical attributes have won them many admirers.

Why do cacti have spines? While these spines might appear insignificant to us, they play a crucial role for the cacti themselves, acting as a defense mechanism against their challenging environment.

Ordinarily, the majority of water absorbed by a plant is released through transpiration. According to scientists, out of every 100 grams of water absorbed, a mere 1 gram is retained within the plant, with transpiration primarily occurring through the leaves.

The larger the leaf surface, the faster the water evaporation.

To endure prolonged periods of drought and conserve water efficiently, cactus leaves have evolved over time. This adaptation has led to the formation of the needle-like spines we observe today.

These spines significantly reduce the plant's transpiration area, conserving water and enhancing its ability to thrive in water-scarce regions. Contrary to their appearance, the dense spines actually serve as modified leaves for the cactus.

On the other hand, plants, despite lacking animal-like consciousness, possess an awareness of their external surroundings. Many plants exhibit defensive behaviors, such as emitting toxins to deter pests or developing specialized tissues to ward off external threats.

Cactus spines are a manifestation of this survival strategy, preventing consumption by animals. This concept aligns with the principle of "survival of the fittest."

Organisms in arid regions, both flora and fauna, compete for water, engaging in a perpetual struggle of attack and defense. As the cactus stem supplies vital moisture to animals, the spines hinder predation, showcasing nature's delicate equilibrium.

Over time, numerous cactus spines have transformed into different forms, some resembling white hairs that densely cover the plant's surface. This adaptation reflects strong light and reduces surface temperature, thereby minimizing water loss and facilitating water storage.

Additionally, cactus spines exhibit a range of shapes, colors, arrangements, and numbers, endowing them with distinctiveness and aesthetic appeal. These variations are also crucial for identifying different cactus species.

In essence, cacti exemplify nature's ingenious adaptations to harsh conditions. Their spines are not only functional but also visually captivating, showcasing the remarkable ways in which plants can evolve.