Production of prickly pears in Morocco drops due to cochineal

INRA has created 8 varieties of cacti resistant to cochineal, whose colors are different from traditional prickly pears. Moroccan cacti are suffering from a scale insect infestation which has reduced the supply of prickly pears on the national market. Today, prickly pear lovers could be deprived of this delicious snack this summer, at least until cactus orchards are replenished. Morocco has been affected by the cochineal infestation which has ravaged most of the cacti, thus reducing the production of prickly pears. However, mealybug resistant varieties have been found in some parts of the country. The expert in entomology and integrated crop management, Dr Rachid Bouharroud, believes that the temporary disappearance of cacti can be beneficial in eradicating this insect. Before the arrival of the cochineal, cacti produced tons of prickly pears and generated significant income, explains an article by Média24. The cochineal is a destructive insect that can destroy a cactus field in 3 ...