hrvatski

Halophytes – Crops of the future

Wild edible Mediterranean herbs have always played an important role in human diet and traditional medicine, and recently special attention has been paid to halophytic species since about 1% of the total world flora consists of these plants. They are native to saline habitats because of their special adaptive mechanisms to the harsh conditions to which they are exposed. While the total area of saline soils is increasing (1-2% per year) due to rapid climate change, agricultural productivity is decreasing, and along with population growth, it is estimated that the 21st century will be the century of halophyte agriculture expansion. Although halophytes are often underestimated and underutilised, their innate resilience to these changes could play a key role in ensuring food security. The aim of this study is to gain insight into the most widespread halophyte species (Crithmum maritimum ; Salicornia europea, Inula crithmoides, Arthrocnemum fructicosum, Limonium cancellatum, Cakile maritima Scop., Pancriatium maritimum, ...) growing along the Adriatic coast, their main characteristics, potential for use in different sectors, and environmental importance.

halophytes ; salinity ; Adriatic coast ; economic and ecological potential

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