Suaeda vermiculata Forssk. ex J.F. Gmel.: Structural Characteristics and Adaptations to Salinity and Drought: A Review

Abstract

The aim of the present study is to review the structural characteristics possessed and the adaptations implemented by Suaeda vermiculata; a partially succulent habitat-indifferent desert halophyte, to cope with salinity and drought stresses and gaining insight into its tolerance mechanisms. These characteristics include succulence, leaf burns, leaf shedding, stunted growth habit, change in colour of the leaves, thick cuticular layers and sunken stomata. Deep rooting system and high root/shoot ratio are two more drought adaptations that may also be incorporated as tolerance mechanisms, but no previous studies were encountered for S. vermiculata. These adaptations allowed S. vermiculata to tolerate broad distribution in arid and semi-arid regions and variable habitats including salinity. The presence of small glossy seeds devoid of structures enhancing dispersal, limit its range of spatial dispersal and may be regarded as an inherent limit to tolerance mechanisms.