Anatomical Adaptations of Halophytes : A Review of Classic Literature and Recent Findings

This book describes important anatomical adaptations in halophytes, based on a large review of relevant literature (since the 17th century) and recent research findings. Scientists involved in the study of plant biology, from a molecular to ecosystemic level, will find information about all major structural strategies of salt tolerant plants. The book starts with an introductory theoretical background, where several aspects related to the definition and classification of halophytes and saline environments are included. Major anatomical adaptations are then grouped around major concepts: succulence, tracheoidioblasts, salt secretion, Kranz anatomy, successive cambia, and bulliform cells. Each of them is treated following a general scheme: introductory considerations, anatomical basis, and ecological implications; a review of relevant literature is then conducted and the text is supported by a large number of figures, especially ink drawings and color micrographs. Front Matter ....Pages i-xvii Front Matter ....Pages 1-1 Definition and Classification of Halophytes (Marius-Nicușor Grigore, Constantin Toma)....Pages 3-28 Saline Environments (Marius-Nicușor Grigore, Constantin Toma)....Pages 29-37 Front Matter ....Pages 39-39 Succulence (Marius-Nicușor Grigore, Constantin Toma)....Pages 41-124 Tracheoidioblasts (Spiral Cells) and Stereides (Spicular Cells) (Marius -Nicușor Grigore, Constantin Toma)....Pages 125-146 Salt Secretion (Marius-Nicușor Grigore, Constantin Toma)....Pages 147-239 Kranz Anatomy (Marius-Nicușor Grigore, Constantin Toma)....Pages 241-272 Successive (Additional) Cambia (Marius-Nicușor Grigore, Constantin Toma)....Pages 273-323 Bulliform Cells (Marius-Nicușor Grigore, Constantin Toma)....Pages 325-338