Halophytes: potential resources of coastal ecosystems and their economic, ecological and bioprospecting significance.

Abstract

Abstract Halophytes are a special group of plants that grow and flourish in highly saline environments. This chapter summarizes current knowledge exploring the enormous potential of halophytes for industrial applications in the form of nutraceuticals, essential oils, biofuels, alcohol, latex, cosmetics, fibres, etc., and the bioactive molecules rendering these properties. We critically analyse recent literature addressing halophytes as a potential source of valuable metabolites having nutraceutical and pharmaceutical value, and their potential for remediating nutrient-rich effluents from coastal aquaculture. The growing body of evidence discussed in this chapter supports the perception that halophytes can be incorporated easily into saltwater-based agriculture as a source of high-value products. Bioprospecting the biomedical compounds isolated from halophytes promises to help in the sustainable commercialization of the identified bioactive compounds. Cultivation of halophytes is both economically and ecologically beneficial: it encourages the extension of technologies to improve a country's economy by providing employment opportunities, and also helps to protect coastal wastelands and promotes ecosystem restoration. We discuss the ecological, economic, nutraceutical and therapeutic potential of halophytes, focusing on the primary and secondary bioactive compounds or metabolites applicable to nutraceuticals, pharmaceuticals or cosmetic applications; and also explore the potential of halophytes for reclamation of salt-affected and heavy metal-contaminated lands.