Cactus Pistil
by Robert Bales
Title
Cactus Pistil
Artist
Robert Bales
Medium
Photograph - Photo
Description
Spring in the desert sure bring out many different types of cactus blooming.
Prickly pear cactus represent about a dozen species of the Opuntia genus (Family Cactaceae) in the North American deserts. All have flat, fleshy pads that look like large leaves. The pads are actually modified branches or stems that serve several functions -- water storage, photosynthesis and flower production. Chollas are also members of the Opuntia genus but have cylindrical, jointed stems rather than flat pads.
Like other cactus, most prickly pears and chollas have large spines -- actually modified leaves -- growing from tubercles -- small, wart-like projections -- on their stems. But members of the Opuntia genus are unique because of their clusters of fine, tiny, barbed spines called glochids. Found just above the cluster of regular spines, glochids are yellow or red in color and detach easily from the pads. Glochids are often difficult to see and more difficult to remove, once lodged in the skin.
Uploaded
April 6th, 2015
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Viewed 1,241 Times - Last Visitor from Cambridge, MA on 04/18/2024 at 7:11 PM
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Comments (22)
ArtissiMo Photography
Really beautiful, Robert. f
Robert Bales replied:
Thanks so much for the wonderful comment and the F!! This one is in our front yard in Yuma!
JOHN TELFER
Robert, Excellent capture of this cactus, love the great details and amazing surroundings, nice colors, G+/T/like and fav
Robert Bales replied:
So glad you enjoyed the cactus John and thanks fopr the wonderful comments and the promotion!!
Ann Johndro-Collins
Fantastic macro photography, Robert...sweet clarity with soft focus framing. An outstanding work of art. LF