Halophytes and Agroforestry in the Restoration of Salt-affected Landscapes in Changed Environment
Halophytes and agroforestry in restoring salty lands
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Authors
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S R Gupta
Department of Botany, Kurukshetra University Kurukshetra, Haryana, India
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J C Dagar
Indian Council of Agricultural Research, Krishi Anusandhan Bhavan-II, Pusa, New Delhi-110012, India
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H R Sharma
Institute of Environmental Studies, Kurukshetra University, Kurukshetra, Haryana-136119, India.
Keywords:
Diversity: Distribution of halophytes, Potential Economic Uses, Improving Microbial ActivityAbstract
Vast areas of salt-affected lands remain barren due to water scarcity globally, with 20% of irrigated agricultural land experiencing secondary salinization. Salt-affected landscapes present significant challenges for restoration and sustainable land management. This review examines the potential of halophytes and agroforestry systems as innovative strategies for rehabilitating these degraded landscapes. Naturally adapted to high salinity conditions, halophytes can play a crucial role in restoring productivity, and soil fertility and promoting resilience in saline areas. In addition to phytoremediation, halophytes are utilised to produce fuel, food, medicine, fodder, and timber. eHALOPH database has recognized the nine main categories of uses of halophytes including food and drink, domestic products, timber, forage, land use, fibers, toxins, medical and chemicals. Approximately 30% of the applications of halophyte plants are medicinal, with 20% being for fodder. Halophytes can be used for phytoremediation, to restore salty soils, address environmental issues, restore biodiversity, and provide food and medicinal sources. Site-specific strategies can be practicable for mangrove restoration. Integrating halophytes and salt-tolerant plants into agroforestry systems can enhance biodiversity, biological productivity, microbial diversity and activity, and carbon sequestration. Some successful applications of agroforestry, particularly enhancing ecosystem services are highlighted. By synthesizing current research and practice, a comprehensive understanding of using halophytes and agri-silvicultural and silvopastoral agroforestry systems can effectively restore salt-affected landscapes.
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