Assessment of morphological variability of Suaeda vermiculata in Khuzestan Province (Iran) and its biological applications

Document Type : Original Article

Authors

Department of Plant Production and Genetics, Faculty of Agriculture, Shahid Chamran University of Ahvaz, Ahvaz, Iran

10.22091/ethc.2026.13906.1068

Abstract

Objective: Suaeda vermiculata is a halophytic shrub with significant ecological adaptability and valuable bioactive compounds, making it an important species for the sustainable utilization of saline lands. This study assessed the morphological diversity of S. vermiculata ecotypes across Khuzestan Province (Iran) and reviewed their documented biological and ecological applications.
Methods: Field sampling of 52 ecotypes was conducted from July to October 2023, measuring seven morphological traits—three quantitative and four qualitative. Ecotypes were grouped using UPGMA clustering with Gower’s similarity coefficient; cluster robustness was evaluated by bootstrap tests, and differentiation among ecotypes was analyzed through PERMANOVA. Morphological variation was further explored by Principal Coordinates Analysis (PCoA).
Results: The results revealed considerable morphological variability, forming two stable and clearly differentiated clusters consistent with PCoA outcomes.
Conclusion: While this research focused on morphological traits, applied interpretations were drawn from literature. Reported biological activities of the species include antioxidant, antidiabetic, antimicrobial, and anticancer properties, as well as phytoremediation capacity and potential forage use. Overall, S. vermiculata demonstrates ecological resilience and multifunctionality, supporting its value for saline-land rehabilitation and sustainable agriculture in arid regions.

Keywords

Main Subjects

References

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Ethnobiology and Biodiversity Conservation
Volume 2, Issue 4 - Serial Number 8
December 2025
Pages 46-62

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