ON USEFUL SUBSTANCES IN CACTUS 



Eighth: In general, the adaptability of the new 

 Opuntias to the arid regions gives assurance that 

 vast semi-arid regions of the globe will be made 

 habitable and productive, although hitherto they 

 have produced scant if any vegetation of economic 

 value. 



Without looking further, it must be clear that 

 a plant having such qualities may be regarded as 

 the most neglected of vegetable products. Owing 

 to its spines, the cactus has been regarded as an 

 enemy of man. Now that its spines are removed 

 its good qualities will in due course be ap- 

 preciated. 



Should their present promise be fulfilled, the 

 giant spineless Opuntias may make vast areas that 

 hitherto have been relatively sterile among the 

 productive regions of the world. 



They may supply fodder for unlimited num- 

 bers of cattle, that will give cheaper food to the 

 masses, and conspicuously decrease the cost of 

 living. 



They may even avert famines in regions that 

 have hitherto accepted the recurrence of starva- 

 tion years as an inevitable visitation. 



And even should the future benefits that accrue 

 from the new spineless Opuntias realize but a 

 fraction of their present promise, these plants 

 might still be entitled to a foremost place among 



[257] 



