Opuntia Invasion Risk and Management Strategies in China: A Comprehensive Review Under Climate Change Scenarios

Including China, the genus Opuntia prickly pear cactus has grown to be a quite troublesome invading species in many different countries. With an eye toward Opuntia's ecological effects, present management practices, and suggestions for future control activities, this review assesses the possible distribution and invasion risk of the plant under climate change conditions. We investigate the species' present distribution in China, the biological traits allowing its proliferation, and the environmental elements driving its expansion. Mechanical, chemical, and biological control techniques are among the management strategies under careful evaluation; integrated pest management (IPM) shows great potential. We address issues including ecological concerns, limited efficacy of mechanical and chemical approaches, and non-target consequences of biological controls. Reducing future invasions depends on proactive preventative plans involving early identification, public awareness, and biosecurity measures. The study emphasizes the need for continuous research to better grasp the dynamics of Opuntia invasions and the evolution of more sensible, region-specific control strategies. Improving early-warning systems, increasing stakeholder involvement, and developing adaptive management techniques to handle the expanding threat Opuntia presents in China's ecosystems and agricultural sectors should take the front stage in future initiatives.