Harrisia portoricensis facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Harrisia portoricensis |
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Harrisia (plant)
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portoricensis
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Harrisia portoricensis is a special type of cactus that grows only in Puerto Rico. It's also known as higo chumbo or the Puerto Rico applecactus. This unique plant is found on three smaller islands near Puerto Rico's main island. It's a rare plant, and scientists are working to protect it.
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What is the Puerto Rico Applecactus?
The Harrisia portoricensis is a fascinating plant. It belongs to a group of cacti called Harrisia. This cactus is endemic to Puerto Rico. This means it naturally grows nowhere else in the world! It was first described by a scientist named Nathaniel Lord Britton in 1908.
Where Does This Cactus Live?
The Puerto Rico applecactus lives on three small islands off the coast of Puerto Rico. These islands are:
Most of these cacti live on Mona Island. Scientists have counted about 59,000 plants there. On Monito Island, there are only about 148 individuals. And on Desecheo Island, there are just 9 plants left. Because there are so few of them, this cactus is considered an endangered species. This means it is at risk of disappearing forever.
What Does the Puerto Rico Applecactus Look Like?
Like many cacti, the Puerto Rico applecactus has a thick, green stem. This stem helps it store water, which is very important in dry places. It also has spines, which protect it from animals that might try to eat it. The cactus gets its common name, "applecactus," because of its fruit. The fruit is often called "higo chumbo," which means "prickly pear" in Spanish.
Why is This Cactus Important?
Every plant and animal plays a role in its ecosystem. The Puerto Rico applecactus is part of the unique natural environment of these islands. It provides food or shelter for some animals. Protecting this cactus helps protect the overall health of the islands' ecosystems. Scientists study these rare plants to learn more about how they survive and how we can protect other endangered species.
See also
In Spanish: Harrisia portoricensis para niños
Images for kids
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Scene of higo chumbo cactus with water in background
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A close-up of the fruit of the higo chumbo cactus.
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