The Cactus Hunters

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An exploration of the explosive illegal trade in succulents and the passion that drives it reveals the phenomenon of cacti and succulents, which are highly sought after by plant enthusiasts despite being among the most threatened species globally. The fervor for these plants fuels an illicit trade that may push certain species toward extinction. This investigation dives into the peculiar world of succulent collecting, uncovering the motivations behind the illegal activities of passionate collectors. It examines the allure of these plants and the satisfaction they promise, suggesting that the roots of this desire may lie within the illegal succulent trade itself. Jared D. Margulies' inquiry spans various disciplines, including botany, criminology, political ecology, and psychoanalysis. His journey takes him from succulent heists on a small Mexican island to California law enforcement infiltrating a South Korean smuggling ring, and from scientists racing to identify rare species before poachers do to a notorious Czech “cacto-explorer” who made his country a hub for the illegal trade. This blend of international intrigue, social theory, botanical lore, and ecological study provides a complex insight into species extinction, conservation, and the interconnections of human and non-human care.