Once upon a time, in a vast and beautiful desert, there was a tiny cactus seed. It lay on the ground, waiting for the right conditions to germinate and grow. The sun shone hot and the wind blew hard, but the seed was determined to evolve and become a strong and tall cactus.

One day, the conditions were just right, and the seed germinated. It began to grow, reaching up towards the sky. The cactus was surrounded by other plants and animals, some of which were predators looking for their next meal. But the cactus was strong and resilient, and it protected itself with its sharp spines.

As time passed, the cactus grew bigger and stronger. It was not hospitable to the predators, but it was a vital part of the ecosystem. It provided a home for many insects and small animals, and it helped to pollinate other plants.

One day, a group of javelinas stumbled upon the cactus. They were hungry and they thought that the cactus would make a tasty treat. But they were in for a surprise! The cactus was not easy to eat, and the javelinas quickly realized that they were no match for its sharp spines. They went on their way, in search of easier prey.

The cactus continued to thrive in the desert, providing food and shelter for the animals that lived there. When the cactus eventually died, it decomposed and became part of the soil, providing nutrients for new plants to germinate and grow.

But, one unfortunate day, a group of humans came to the desert and started to destroy the environment. They built roads, cut down trees, and filled the air with pollution. The cactus struggled to survive in the new, hostile environment, but it was no use. The cactus eventually died, and the once thriving desert was no more.

The end.

Reflections

1. What was the cactus seed waiting for to start growing?
2. How did the cactus protect itself from predators?
3. What role did the cactus play in the desert ecosystem?
4. How did the humans impact the cactus and its environment?
5. What do you think happened to the other plants and animals in the desert after the cactus died?
6. How do you think we can help protect the environment like the desert in the story?