Global Cactus Traffickers Are Cleaning Out the Deserts

There is a similar problem with native orchids in some states in the US. Many people who come across one in the wild will attempt to collect it, which prohibits the plant from reproducing in its natural range. And due to the rarity of these plants, it doesn't take many members of the species to be removed before the species begins to experience pressure. There are some attempts being made to reintroduce some of the more pressured species, e.g. https://www.centrallouisianaorchidsociety.org/cypripedium-st...

Reminds me of the gangs in the Northwest who clear out Salal from public and private forests to send back to the Netherlands for the global flower trade.