Kangaroo Cactus
The Kangaroo Cactus is native to Africa and Sri Lanka. They were first found in the 1300’s in a desolate dry desert area. Within the last five centuries scientists and geologists have been discovering these Kangaroo Cacti in parts of Patagonia in the south all the way to the western parts of Canada in the North. These prickly little plants are quite unique. They are shaped like little balls and act as if they are alive. They have a special characteristic in which when they sense a threat or prey near them, the Kangaroo Cacti are able to leap towards their enemy. Due to the fact that they are part of the cacti family, their sharp needles are able to penetrate the skin of the attacker. The needles range between 4-7 centimeters in length and if they puncture skin they area able to release a venom into their enemy which creates a high like feeling for the individual. These sneaky little cacti are able to grow on the normal looking cacti. They usually grow near the base or on the “arms”of the cactus. Unlike normal cactus which are green, the Kangaroo Cactus have a unique dark green tinge with reddening near the tips of the needles. They appear as they may possibly be part of the standard cactus’ however their looks can be deceiving. Due to the fact that the cactus venom causes a high like feeling for the individuals affected, medical communities have began studying the Kangaroo. Thanks to technological advancements for studying medicine, within the next three to five years these unique cactus’ may be able to help medical professionals cure certain types of cancers. According to one doctor, :this type of medicine will take treatments to a whole new level”. He claims, “that there is nothing else out there like it”.
Daniel Greim
COMM 100W