In the heart of the Arizona desert in the United States, one of the most emblematic icons in the American Sudoeste is facing a silent but devastating threat: extreme heat. Catos Saguaro, who for centuries have resisted the arid conditions of the region, are now succumbing to record temperatures that challenge even the most resilient species.
The Jon Gurule guide knows the tracks well with Scottsdale, Arizona. Almost every day it takes tourists to the desert and everyone wants to see the same thing.
“Everyone wants to take a photograph with a Saguaro. They are undoubtedly the main attraction. But now it seems that they are melting.”
Since 2020, parts of Arizona have recorded heat waves with temperatures above 43 ° C for consecutive weeks. Scientists say that Catos are suffering repeated “heat blows” and that this is causing the accelerated death of centenary specimens.
Recent studies reveal that the phoenix area’s mortality rate has increased from 1 or 2% to about 7% per year, an unsustainable pace for a plant that may take more than a century to reach maturity. Kevin Hultine has been studying the Sage for 14 years and warns of the consequences.
“Let’s see more and more these landscapes that seem like cattle cemeteries as the desert continues to warm up.”
Kevin Hultine’s team is working to identify the most resistant heat and drought varieties, with the aim of preserving the species in places such as the national forest of dizzy.
For now, Cato Saguaro, a symbol of the Old West, faces the greatest challenge of its existence: to adapt to a world in rapid climate transformation.
