Opuntia galapageia

Native only to the Galapagos Islands, this prickly pear cactus develops a tree-like succulent growth form. Flattened green stem segments carry numerous spines, with new growth emerging from their edges. It grows in dry shrubland and desert habitats. Tortoises and land iguanas feed on these island cacti, which provide food and moisture in dry habitats. Photographed in Ecuador.