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One book said that saguaros are vulnerable to bacteria and yeast infections, which can be carried by the wind or insects. Another book said that sunburn and frost damage cause a skin condition that is sometimes called "epidermal browning" and that is still not fully understood. Yet another book said that a type of moth tunnels into the saguaro, making a kind of black ooze spill out of it. This is called bacterial necrosis. If it spreads inside, the cactus may eventually decay and fall apart. I was worried that the saguaro cactus might be endangered. However, all of my research books reassured me that the saguaros are not in danger of extinction. I'm glad to know that saguaros are protected under Arizona state law. They are considered vulnerable to both theft and vandalism and are therefore safeguarded as a state treasure. They cannot be moved from any land, public or private, without special permits, and illegal movement of them is punishable by law. |
 Saguaros are vulnerable to bacteria and yeast infections. Saguaros are vulnerable to bacteria and yeast infections. Damage to the saguaro's skin, called epidermal browning, is caused by sunburn and frost. After spending all this time with the saguaro cactus, I felt as if I had gained another friend. I learned that saguaros are much more complex than the naked eye can see. I also learned that saguaros are a lot like humans in the sense that no two saguaros are the same. Lastly, I learned that being a scientist is a lot of work, but also a lot of fun. I hope you enjoyed hearing about my adventures with the saguaro cactus, and that you learned something about these rare and beautiful cactuses. |
