An Ecological Overview of Halophytes: Phytogeographical Distribution, Floristic Diversity, Vegetation Composition, and Utilisation

Over the past two decades, there has been an increase in interest in halophytes and their application for improving agronomic and economic prospects, reclaiming salt-affected soils, and developing saline agriculture. It is essential for this that we comprehend the variety of halophytic species that exist in saline environments. Some of the dominant plant species are known to be of economic importance for food, oil, vegetables, and good quality fodder and as a tool for the reclamation of saline soils. Therefore, this chapter briefly reports information on the phytogeographical distribution of halophytes, and their vegetation characteristics, dealing with community structure vis-à-vis soil characteristics, zonation pattern, and biomass production. The vegetation composition explores the economic potential of important halophytic species for their adaptation to stress conditions, domestication, and suitability for biosaline agriculture. Understanding the phytogeographical distribution of halophytes has been found useful in the conservation and preservation of these valuable plant species. With specific information on the vegetation characteristics, conservation strategies can be formulated towards protecting these ecosystems for the continued availability of good quality fodder and reclamation options for saline soils. The biomass production of halophytes has provided valuable insights into their potential as a sustainable source of bioenergy, enhancing their economic potential for food security.