Cactaceae Collection (#8)

Michael S. Nolan / SpecialistStock
Cactus in bloom in the Sonoran Desert of the Baja California Peninsula, Mexico

Shadow of Saguaro Cactus - In desert wash - Sonoran Desert - Arizona - Record height: 78 feet - Average mature height
CAN-3214 Shadow of Saguaro Cactus - in desert wash Sonoran Desert, Arizona, USA Carnegiea gigantea John Cancalosi Please note that prints are for personal display purposes only

San Esteban spiny-tailed iguana (Ctenosaura conspicuosa), an endemic iguana found only on Isla San Esteban in the Gulf
Michael Nolan / SpecialistStock

Lindblad expedition leader Sue Perrin viewing the Lindblad expedition ship National Geographic Sea Bird from atop Isla
Michael Nolan / SpecialistStock

Adult osprey (Pandion haliaetus) on cardon cactus on Isla Angel de la Guarda in the upper Gulf of California
Michael Nolan / SpecialistStock

Intruiging and whimsical shapes and patterns in the giant Opuntia cactus (Opuntia echios)
Michael Nolan / SpecialistStock

San Esteban spiny-tailed iguana (Ctenosaura conspicuosa), an endemic iguana found only on Isla San Esteban in the Gulf
Michael Nolan / SpecialistStock

Sunrise over cardon cactus with gulls from Isla San Esteban in the midriff region of Gulf of California (Sea of Cortez)
Michael Nolan / SpecialistStock

Saguaro Cactus (Carnegiea gigantea) - Cristate Form - Sonoran Desert - Arizona - Cristate form may be a genetic variant
CAN-3179 Saguaro Cactus (Carnegiea gigantea), cristate form Sonoran Desert, Arizona, USA Carnegiea gigantea Cristate form may be a genetic variant

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The cactaceae family, known for its unique and resilient plants, has captivated explorers and nature enthusiasts throughout history. In the 19th century, famed explorer Alexander von Humboldt and his party embarked on a plant-collecting expedition, discovering new species of cacti in their journey. Fast forward to modern times, where the Arizona Sonora Desert Museum provides a breathtaking backdrop for an adult captive desert tortoise at sunset. This majestic creature thrives amidst the arid landscape, showcasing the harmony between wildlife and cacti in Tucson. Travel across continents to Valencia, Spain's botanical garden, where a fly perches delicately on a vibrant cactus. The juxtaposition of this tiny insect against the prickly surface highlights nature's intricate details found within these remarkable plants. Venturing further south brings us to Isabella Island in Ecuador's Galapagos Islands. As the sun sets over this enchanting location, it casts an ethereal glow upon towering cacti that dot the landscape - a testament to their resilience in even the harshest environments. Porto Santo Island in Portugal offers another captivating vista with its picturesque scenery. Here lies an oasis adorned with various species of cacti that thrive against all odds within this Atlantic paradise. Amongst these diverse members of the Cactaceae family is Selenicereus hamatus or "Queen of the night. " Its mesmerizing blooms only open after dusk—a true marvel of nature that showcases both beauty and adaptability. Returning to Arizona's Sonoran Desert National Park reveals one of its most iconic inhabitants—the giant saguaro Carnegiea gigantea. These colossal giants stand tall as guardians of this vast desert expanse—an awe-inspiring sight for visitors from around the world. Meanwhile, Santa Fe Island in Ecuador boasts not only stunning landscapes but also plays host to fascinating creatures like land iguanas.