What challenges do farmers face when growing prickly pears in Mallorca?

Farmers in Mallorca face several challenges when cultivating prickly pears, also known as "figs de moro" locally. One major issue is water availability, particularly in the summer months when rainfall is scarce. This can lead to reliance on irrigation, which may be affected by water scarcity or restrictions. Additionally, prickly pear farming is susceptible to pests and diseases, such as the cochineal insect, which can severely damage crops and reduce yields.

The changing climate poses another significant challenge, with increasing temperatures and extreme weather events impacting growth and fruit quality. Farmers also contend with market fluctuations; while prickly pears can be lucrative, competition from other regions and fluctuations in consumer demand can affect profitability. Furthermore, traditional farming practices are slowly being replaced by more intensive agricultural methods, which could lead to a loss of biodiversity and cultural heritage associated with the cultivation of prickly pears. These factors collectively complicate the sustainability of prickly pear farming in Mallorca.