What are Chenopodiaceae?
The chenopodiaceae, currently known as subfamily Chenopodioideae Within the Amaranthaceae, they encompass a diverse group of herbaceous and shrubby plants that are widely distributed in different regions of the world. Traditionally, they were considered a family of their own. (Chenopodiaceae), but genetic studies have led to its reclassification, confirming its close relationship with other subfamilies within the Amaranthaceae. Currently, this group includes about 1.400 species distributed in approximately one hundred genera.
These plants are easily identified by their morphology and their great capacity for adaptation, which has allowed them to colonize very varied habitats, from coastal saline areas, marshes, and salt marshes, to altered or impoverished terrain, such as roadsides and urban areas. This makes them key sources of both wild flora and numerous crops of economic and food importance.
Morphological characteristics of Chenopodiaceae
- Plant type: Most are herbaceous, although there are shrubby and even climbing species. Stems can be fleshy, jointed, or lignified at the base, adaptations that facilitate their survival in harsh environments.
- Sheets: Usually simple, alternating and with an entire margin, although they can occasionally be opposite. Many species have succulent leaves, or in some cases, the leaves may be reduced to scales or nonexistent, with the stem assuming the photosynthetic function.
- Flowers: They are grouped in cymose inflorescences or dense spikes and are usually small, hermaphroditic or unisexualThey have a sepaloid perianth of 3 to 5 pieces, often fused; sometimes the perianth may be absent or reduced. The characteristic floral formula is P1-5 A1-5 G1 Supero.
- Fruit: Typically it is a utricle or achene, although pyxidia can also be found.
- Pollination: Normally by airway, which favors its reproductive success in open and dry environments.
Ecological adaptations and distribution
Chenopodiaceae show notable adaptations to extreme environments. Many species are adapted to saline (halophytic) soils and coastal areas, while others thrive in disturbed, nitrogen-rich soils, roadsides, waste dumps, and urban areas. They are particularly resistant to salinity and nutrient-poor soils, allowing them to compete and develop where other species cannot survive.
A unique physiological characteristic is the photosynthesis via C4 pathway In some species, this improves water use efficiency and allows them to withstand high temperatures and drought. They may also have succulent leaves and trichomes, which helps minimize water loss.
These plants accumulate non-toxic solutes in the roots, facilitating their survival in saline or contaminated soils.
Main representative genera and species
Within the Chenopodiaceae family, there are genera of great ecological, agricultural, and food importance. Some of the most notable include:
- chenopodium: Where is the Quinoa, a pseudocereal of high nutritional value.
- Spinacia: Responsible for spinach, consumed worldwide.
- Beta: It includes varieties such as beet and chard, both essential in food and agriculture.
- Dysphania: It groups species such as epazote or paico, highly valued in traditional medicine and gastronomy in some countries.
- atriplex: Known as the sea ​​fan or saline, used in gardening in coastal and arid areas.
- Salsola, Salicornia, Sarcocornia: They predominate in brackish environments and are representative of marshes and salt marshes.
In Mediterranean cuisine, the spinach and beet They are especially notable, both for their nutritional properties and for the diversity of culinary uses and varieties available.
Properties and applications of Chenopodiaceae
La nutritional richness of many species makes them essential crops. For example, the Quinoa It is recognized for its high protein and essential amino acid content. Likewise, the beet and chard They provide a wide variety of vitamins and minerals.
traditional and agricultural uses notables:
- The ashes of certain chenopodiaceaeas the salsa, were traditionally used to make soaps.
- Some lamb's quarters (chenopodium spp.) have been used in folk medicine.
- The salad (atriplex halimus) is planted as an ornamental shrub in coastal and arid areas.
Ecology, flowering periods and pollen
Chenopodiaceae present a long flowering period, which can extend from spring to late fall. This long cycle allows them to proliferate in a variety of habitats throughout the year. The small, inconspicuous flowers often go unnoticed, however, their pollen is recognized as a potent aeroallergen in some regions, especially in areas where they proliferate as weeds or alongside crops.
El pollen of Chenopodiaceae It is polypantoporate, apolar, and radially symmetrical, with granules in the exine and numerous pores that facilitate its dispersion. It has been observed that in certain areas, such as the south of the Iberian Peninsula, its concentration in the air can be especially high during the summer and early autumn.
Resistance, agricultural advantages and plant health needs
The species of this subfamily stand out for their great resistance and low demand for nutrient-rich soils or organic matter. They tolerate saline soils and depletion processes, making them a valuable alternative in degraded agricultural areas or those with high salinity levels.
However, their resistance does not exclude the risk of pests and diseases. Some species, such as the chard and beets, are vulnerable to fungal diseases (pox, powdery mildew, cercospora) and nematodes such as heterodera, especially under high humidity conditions. In the spinach It is common to mildew, verticillosis or black rootsTherefore, it is essential to monitor irrigation, avoid flooding, and perform regular phytosanitary checks to prevent damage.
The fact that many Chenopodiaceae are weeds In certain crops, this means that, from an agricultural perspective, they require specific management strategies, both for their use and to prevent them from competing with cultivated species.
Ecological importance and biodiversity
The diversity of Chenopodiaceae contributes significantly to the maintenance of brackish ecosystems, coastal areas, marshes and altered habitats. Their physiological adaptations allow them to colonize spaces where other plants do not grow, thus promoting local biodiversity and offering shelter and food to different species of fauna.
Some genres, such as Glasswort, Suaeda y Arthrocnemum, are considered key to the characterization and conservation of saline coastal ecosystems. Their use in ornamental and ecological restoration is increasing due to these properties.
Chenopodiaceae are a group of plants with a high capacity for adaptation and both ecological and economic importance. They are notable for their nutritional properties, resistance to extreme conditions, and diverse uses. Their correct identification, management, and utilization are essential for agriculture, food, and ecosystem conservation.
