Stefano Baglioni's Image

During a 15-day expedition in Mexico’s Chihuahuan Desert, Stefano spotted this young bishop’s cap cactus exploiting the remains of agaves. In the searing heat, Stefano carefully framed the cactus among the crisscrossing leaves and, as a cloud softened the light, captured the rich textures and tones of this parched scene.

The bishop’s cap cactus is a desert survivor, covered with tiny, white, hairy scales called trichomes that provide protection from the Sun. It is thriving here in the shade and organic matter of dying agaves. The Chihuahuan Desert is the largest desert in North America, but an increasing human population and misuse of water is threatening this delicate ecosystem.