A saguaro cactus in the Sonoran Desert takes 80 years to become mature and begin flowering.During that time, woodpeckers drill cavities into the cactus and provide nesting sites for up to 30 bird species.After it begins to flower, the cactus also provides nectar for bats, bees, and doves, and fruit for various other birds and insects.Based on these interactions, the saguaro cactus could best be described as a

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The saguaro cactus acts as a foundation species by creating and defining the ecosystem structure, providing essential resources like nesting sites and food (nectar and fruit) for a variety of species. It also acts as an ecosystem engineer because it modifies the environment in a way that creates new habitats for other species, such as the cavities created by woodpeckers that are used by other birds.

A Saguaro Cactus in the Sonoran Desert Takes 80 Years