Adaptation of the Euhalophyte Suaeda salsa to High-Salinity Conditions

Abstract

Halophytes can complete their lifecycles in natural environments with high levels of salt (200 mM NaCl or more). Therefore, halophytes represent excellent sources of salt-tolerant genes for use in traditional crops to improve the efficiency of agriculture in saline-alkali environments. Here, we review the latest information about Suaeda salsa, an especially promising genetic resource. This typical euhalophyte has succulent leaves and grows in saline habitats in inland and intertidal zones. S. salsa produces dimorphic seeds (black and brown seeds) on the same plant under natural growth conditions. These seeds have different J.G and J.S. wrote the paper; B.W. revised the paper.