Determination of Soil Salinity in Frankenia hirsuta L. Habitat (Case Study: Saline and Alkaline Rangelands of Golestan Province)
Authors
Abstract
Soil salinity is one of the important factors which can influence the growth and
distribution of plant species. Saline and alkaline rangelands of Golestan Province, Iran with
low-deep underground water level are considered as a halophyte plant species growing area.
Attempts have been made to determine soil salinity and its relationship with Frankenia hirsuta
L. In order to determine the Electrical Conductivity (EC) of soil, three soil samples had been
taken in the flowering stage of Frankenia hirsuta from the soil at depth of 0-30 cm in three
undergrazing, exclosure and control areas (where there was no Frankenia hirsuta). Data were
collected and analyzed for soil Electrical Conductivity (EC). Results showed that there was a
significant difference (P≤0.01) among three sampling areas (exclosure, undergrazing and
control). High EC values were obtained for control area. So, the presence of this species in
saline and alkaline rangelands was highly affected by soil salinity. Soil salinity in the control
area was 39% higher than undergrazing area.
