Chemical composition of leaves of halophytes and sediments in estuarine habitat

Abstract

Leaves of <i>Aeluropus lagopoides</i> (L.), Ceriops tagal (Perr.) and <i>Lumnitzera racemosa</i> (Willd) along with soil and water surrounding rootzone are studied for their mineral constituents. Leaves of <i>Lumnitzera</i> are rich in Na and Cl content than <i>Aeluropus</i> and <i>Ceriops</i>. <i>Aeluropus</i> shows efficient K uptake and shows maximum Fe, Mn, P and N₂ content than <i>Ceriops</i> and <i>Lumnitzera</i>. The estuarine soil where the plants are located is sandy in nature with <i>p</i>H 7, while surrounding water is slightly alkaline. Analysis of leaves for organic constituents shows that these halophytes have almost same moisture percentage and carbohydrate content. <i>Ceriops</i> is rich in polyphenol content. Maximum proline is present in leaves of <i>Lumnitzera</i> while <i>Aeluropus</i> leaves show maximum chlorophylls indicating that different halophytes located in same habitat show difference in organic and inorganic constituents.