Phytotoxicity of soluble salts on germination and early seedling growth of Medicago arborea L. (Fabaceae)

Saf, Fatma Zohra Hanane

dc.contributor.author	Saf, Fatma Zohra Hanane
dc.date.accessioned	2025-07-21T11:43:41Z
dc.date.available	2025-07-21T11:43:41Z
dc.date.issued	2025
dc.identifier.uri	http://dspace.univ-djelfa.dz:8080/xmlui/handle/112/7804
dc.description	Soil salinity is one of the most serious problems that limit agricultural productivity, particularly in arid and semi-arid regions, where it directly affects plant physiological and biochemical processes from germination to full development and final produce. In this work, we conducted a primary study on the effects of salinity induced by different soluble salts (NaCl, CaCl2, MgSO4, Na2SO4) on the germination and early growth of M. arborea, a promising fodder species for dryland restoration. Through experimental investigation, it was confirmed that the salts tested do not exert the same degree of influence on seed germination. Sodium sulfate (Na2SO4) had the most pronounced inhibitory and toxic effect, while magnesium sulfate (MgSO4) showed more tolerance. These differences can be attributed to the ionic composition of each salt and how these ions enter and accumulate in plant tissues. The importance of this study lies not only in confirming the detrimental effects of salinity during sensitive stages such as germination but also in guiding future approaches to mitigate this problem through varietal selection, improved soil and water management, and a deeper understanding of plant–salt interactions. Our findings highlight the critical role of both salt type and concentration in shaping plant responses, suggesting that not all salinities are equally harmful. This highlights the strong impact of osmotic stress on water absorption and the activation of metabolic processes within the seeds. Globally, this Fabaceae can be used to create alternative pastoral zones, particularly for livestock feeding, due to its high nutritional value and suitability as forage. This is especially relevant in steppe regions, which suffer from limited pastoral resources. Given the accelerating pace of climate change and the increasing salinization of agricultural lands, such research becomes essential for anticipating and addressing the future challenges facing global food security. M. arborea proves to be a resilient candidate for sustainable use in marginal salt lands and soil rehabilitation programs.	en_EN
dc.description.abstract	Medicago arborea est un arbuste fourrager d’intérêt écologique et pastoral. L’étude en laboratoire a évalué l’effet de la salinité (NaCl, MgSO4, CaCl2, Na2SO4) sur la germination des graines. Les résultats montrent que la salinité affecte négativement la vitesse et le taux de germination des graines, avec un effet toxique plus marqué par Na2SO4. Ces résultats mettent en évidence le potentiel prometteur de cette plante pour les programmes de réhabilitation des sols salins dans les steppes algériennes, contribue ainsi à l'amélioration de la productivité fourragère et la durabilité environnementale.	en_EN
dc.language.iso	en	en_EN
dc.publisher	Université Ziane Achour – Djelfa – Faculté des Sciences de la Nature et de la Vie	en_EN
dc.subject	Medicago arborea, salinité, intérêt fourrager, vitesse de germination, taux de germination, toxique	en_EN
dc.title	Phytotoxicity of soluble salts on germination and early seedling growth of Medicago arborea L. (Fabaceae)	en_EN
dc.title.alternative	Plant Ecology and Environment	en_EN
dc.type	Thesis	en_EN