Potential of Halophyte as a Crop and Genetic Resource

Abstract

Salinity is a significant constraint in crop productivity. Halophytes are highly salt-tolerant plants that grow in saline soils such as seashore, salt lakeshores, and inland salt marshes. Studies on the cultivation of halophytes using saline water irrigation indicated that halophytes could be used for food, feed, oil, biofuels, medicine, and phytoremediation. By elucidating molecular mechanisms in salt tolerance of halophyte, the salt-tolerance of crops may be improved. Establishment of farming methods that utilize high salt-tolerant plants will help increase agricultural production in salinized regions. In this review, we will show examples of usage of halophytes in agricultural production and discuss the potential of halophytes as genetic resources and alternative crops.