Family: Amaranthaceae
Author: (Moric.) K.Koch
Bibliography: Unknown
Year: Unknown
Status: accepted
Rank: species
Genus: Arthrocnemum
Vegetable: Unknown
Observations: Unknown
Description
The Glaucous glasswort, scientifically known as Arthrocnemum macrostachyum, is a distinctive perennial halophytic (salt-tolerant) plant primarily found in saline environments such as salt marshes and coastal regions. As a member of the Amaranthaceae family, this species exhibits unique adaptations that allow it to thrive in high-salinity soils, where few other plants can survive.
Characterized by its succulent, jointed stems, Arthrocnemum macrostachyum has a compact, bushy growth habit. The stems are typically green but can take on a glaucous (bluish-grey) hue, which is likely where the common name “Glaucous glasswort” originates. This color change is often more pronounced during dry conditions or as the plant matures. The leaves of the Glaucous glasswort are reduced and scale-like, an adaptation to minimize water loss in its arid habitat.
One of the plant’s notable features is its ability to store water within its fleshy stems, which helps it endure periods of drought and high salinity. Additionally, its root system is highly efficient in extracting and utilizing the scarce freshwater available in its environment. During the flowering season, the Glaucous glasswort produces small, inconspicuous flowers that are typically wind-pollinated. These flowers develop into seeds that further propagate the hardy species.
Arthrocnemum macrostachyum plays a vital ecological role in the ecosystems it inhabits. It helps stabilize soil, thus preventing erosion, and provides habitat and food for various wildlife species. Moreover, its presence can be an indicator of the health of saline environments, making it an important plant for environmental monitoring.
Despite its resilience, the Glaucous glasswort faces threats from habitat destruction, pollution, and changes in salinity levels due to human activities. Conservation efforts are essential to preserve this unique species and maintain the delicate balance of the ecosystems it supports. Further research is needed to understand fully its ecological role and to develop strategies for its protection and sustainable management.
Common Names
En: Glaucous Glasswort
Ca: Salicorn glauc
Fr: Salicorne à gros épis, Salicorne glauque, Salicorne grise
De: Graue Gliedermelde
He: בן-מלח מכחיל
It: Salicornia glauca
Synonyms
Distribution
Additional Images
Habit
Taken Sep 23, 2016 by Tela Botanica − Genevieve BOTTI (cc-by-sa)
Taken May 22, 2017 by Tela Botanica − Liliane ROUBAUDI (cc-by-sa)
Taken May 22, 2017 by Tela Botanica − Liliane ROUBAUDI (cc-by-sa)
Taken May 22, 2017 by Tela Botanica − Liliane ROUBAUDI (cc-by-sa)
Taken May 1, 2022 by Diego Alex (cc-by-sa)
Leaf
Taken Aug 13, 2018 by Marin CORVISY (cc-by-sa)
Taken Aug 9, 2020 by Campoamor Ramon (cc-by-sa)
Taken Aug 9, 2021 by Vincenc J (cc-by-sa)
Taken Aug 22, 2020 by Maria Oliviero (cc-by-sa)
Taken Aug 22, 2020 by Maria Oliviero (cc-by-sa)
Flower
Taken May 22, 2017 by Tela Botanica − Liliane ROUBAUDI (cc-by-sa)
Taken May 22, 2017 by Tela Botanica − Liliane ROUBAUDI (cc-by-sa)
Taken May 22, 2017 by Tela Botanica − Liliane ROUBAUDI (cc-by-sa)
Taken May 22, 2017 by Tela Botanica − Liliane ROUBAUDI (cc-by-sa)
Taken Nov 30, 2019 by jid (cc-by-sa)
Bark
Taken Jun 16, 2018 by Llandrich anna (cc-by-sa)
Taken Sep 30, 2018 by Jun Chen (cc-by-sa)
Taken Jul 21, 2022 by Patrick Buchin (cc-by-sa)
Taken Aug 13, 2018 by Marin CORVISY (cc-by-sa)
Taken Jun 18, 2018 by Ricardo Aperador Rubio (cc-by-sa)
Fruit
Taken Oct 30, 2021 by Michel AMBROISE (cc-by-sa)
Taken Jun 27, 2012 by Tela Botanica − Sylvain PIRY (cc-by-sa)
Taken Jun 27, 2012 by Tela Botanica − Sylvain PIRY (cc-by-sa)
Other
Taken Apr 15, 2018 by Photoflora – Jean-Luc TASSET (©)
Taken Apr 15, 2018 by Photoflora – Jean-Luc TASSET (©)
Taken Apr 11, 2013 by Tela Botanica − Carre Jennifer (cc-by-sa)
Taken Oct 15, 2008 by Photoflora – Benoit BOCK (©)
Taken Jan 1, 1970 by Photoflora – L’Abbé COSTE (©)
Sources
- WFO (No URL)
- IPNI (No URL)
- PlantNet (https://identify.plantnet.org/species/the-plant-list/Arthrocnemum macrostachyum (Moric.) K.Koch)
- GBIF (https://www.gbif.org/species/3757345)