Family Cactaceae
Explanation of Classification
|
The classification of cacti has been an ever-changing task that has consisted of a
good deal of naming and renaming. This struggle to agree on classification continues
today and is the topic of much debate among cactus enthusiasts. This is due in large part
to the extremely variable growth habits of most cacti. Many cacti plants of the same
species may appear quite different from one another. Cacti also reproduce proficiently
through vegetative means creating large numbers of a particular variation and therefore
furthering the impression that what is actually a variety is instead a unique species. The
fact that there exists no agreed upon definition of what a "species" actually is, contributes
even further to the problem.
Because of this, publications written by both amateurs and professionals that describe and
classify cacti create a lot of confusion as to which names and groups are to be accepted and
which are not. Most classification was performed by individuals up until 1984 when the
International Cactaceae Systematics Group was formed to standardize the classification of cacti.
This may seem like the perfect solution to the problem, save that the International Cactaceae
Systematics Group (ICSG) is also made up of individuals. Again, without a standard definition as to
differentiating between species, much of their work is based on strong beliefs and opinions -educated as
they may be. This creates confusion for those attempting to identify an individual cactus plant.
In classifying the species listed on Cactiguide.com, I have decided to follow the treatment of Edward F. Anderson
in his book, The Cactus Family. While many enthusiasts are unhappy with some or much of the
classification used by Anderson in The Cactus Family, I find it is a fair balance between
those who favor lumping various "species" together under one name and those who favor splitting them up based on
minor differences. Furthermore, there simply is no classification I can use here that is true and certainly no
system that will please everyone.
With that said, CactiGuide.com has a tremendous advantage due to being web-based. By using the search features, one
can find a species listed under whatever name one prefers and that way serves the ultimate purpose of any
classification system.
I have not listed the name of the person(s) who first described the plant as is the custom to do because it is not
necessary for identification. Perhaps I will add this data later on.
NOTE: CactiGuide.com is intended as a source for the positive identification of a particular cactus plant.
For further study including biological information, histories, conservation, and growing tips, I
recommend referencing other material on the subject such as those listed on the sources
page which cover all of those subjects in greater detail.
-Daiv Freeman
|
|
