When speaking of succulenT plants, we need consider two groups: the CACTUS family, and the remaining SUCCULENTS which belong to more than twenty distinct families. Cactuses are of American origen. The remaining succulents are also found in Africa, Australia and northern Europe.Some 10.000 succulent plant species exist, comprised in 30 families. Of these 10.000 species, 2.000 are in danger of extinction, and many more are threatened in certain regions. The main factor which causes the disappearance of these species is the destruction of their environment, as well as pressure caused by unconscientious collectors.