Endemic species of Salicornia with economic value in the flora of Iran

Different Salicornia species are widely distributed in many parts of the world. In Iran, significant diversity of this species is observed in the plant flora of the country. These plants have high economic value, including the production of edible oil, creating a green cover to prevent land erosion, carbon sequestration, consumption as vegetables and pickles, traditional folk medicine, salt, and fodder products. Based on the latest study on different species and ecotypes of Salicornia in the country, including Salicornia sinus persica, S. persica Akhani subsp. persica and ecotypes of Gorgan and Urmia show that these species can produce about 10.4 tons per hectare in the south country under seawater irrigation (Persian Gulf) by 60 dS m-1. However, due to adaptability and longer growth period, the yield of Salicornia sinus persica depending on harvesting time could be at least 40% higher than the average value. It seems by planting the plants in the southern coastal areas while developing the plant value chain, some of the forage needed for livestock be produced. However, economic and environmental evaluations of the development of Salicornia cultivation in these areas need further research.