Cacti are specifically adapted to survive the extreme heat and arid conditions of the Sonoran Desert.

Cacti have evolved unique adaptations to thrive in the harsh, hot climate of the Sonoran Desert. Their thick, fleshy stems store water, allowing them to survive prolonged periods of drought. The waxy coating on their skin reduces water loss, and their spines minimize the surface area exposed to the sun while also protecting the plant from herbivores. Cacti like the saguaro cactus are iconic in the Sonoran Desert, showcasing how desert plants have adapted to extreme heat and aridity. Other desert plants, like the mesquite tree, also have drought-resistant features, but cacti are the most iconic.