Heatwaves & Cacti: Climate Change's Threat to Biodiversity

 Phoenix, Arizona, is bracing itself for another rise in scorching temperatures, which could cause further damage to its plant life, including the iconic saguaro cacti. The city recently experienced the warmest average temperature ever recorded in the U.S., leading to reports of fried cacti and trees shedding leaves. According to a recent study, the climate change-induced rise in temperature and dryness could put over 60% of cactus species worldwide at risk of extinction by the mid-21st century.

The extreme heat is also causing concrete and asphalt surfaces to reach potentially harmful temperatures, contributing to the creation of urban heat islands. This phenomenon is exacerbated by the replacement of natural surfaces with impermeable structures and a lack of green spaces, which are critical in reducing surface temperatures.

Moreover, the escalating heatwaves worldwide are not only posing threats to human health but are also damaging plants, including the saguaro cacti of Arizona. These cacti, which have thrived in very dry soil under the merciless Sun for millennia, are now showing signs of dehydration and damage due to the relentless heat. Some of these century-old cacti are losing their typical green hue and displaying yellowish/brown spots, while others are so dehydrated that their ribs have shrunk or lost their branching. This situation underscores the urgent need to address climate change to protect the biodiversity of our planet.