The Institute National de la Recherche Agronomique (INRA) of Morocco has developed eight new varieties of cacti that are resistant to the cochineal scale insect, a pest that has been causing significant damage to cacti in the country. This development aims to address a problem that has diminished the supply of prickly pears, a popular fruit, and poses a threat to the income of farmers. The cochineal scale insect was accidentally introduced to Morocco and has been causing widespread damage to cacti, leading to concerns about the future of prickly pear cultivation. A variety of solutions, including traditional black soap and modern phytosanitary products, are being used to manage the infestation. The new cactus varieties, while resistant to the cochineal scale, have colors different from the traditional prickly pears, with efforts underway to multiply them for agricultural production.