Ecotype Impacts Agronomic and Nutritional Traits of Sarcocornia perennis under Saline Greenhouse Cultivation Conditions

Abstract

This study evaluated the effects of two Sarcocornia sp. ecotypes on the agronomic and nutritional traits of vegetatively propagated plants grown under different salinity levels. Phylogenetic analysis confirmed both as Sarcocornia perennis. Commercial rooting treatments significantly improved the cutting success. Productivity peaked at the first harvest, with ecotypes Sp_E1 and Sp_E2 reaching maximum yields at 22.6 and 15.8 g/L salinity, respectively. Productivity declined at higher salinity, especially in Sp_E1. Ecotype Sp_E2 had better regrowth and resilience under moderate salinity, making it more suitable for extended cultivation cycles. Both ecotypes were rich in moisture, ash, essential minerals, and fiber, offering nutritious low-fat vegetables, though their high sodium content suggests moderate intake in sodium-restricted diets. Antinutritional factors were detected only at the third harvest, highlighting the need for careful evaluation in long-term cultivation. Overall, S. perennis shows promise for commercial cultivation in saline environments, with ecotype Sp_E2 being the more resilient option.