Growth, ion uptake, agro-industrial uses and environmental implications of Eucalyptus camaldulensis in saline systems

Abstract

Plant height, fresh and dry weight of both shoots and roots, leaf number and height of Eucalyptus camaldulensis progressively decreased with increasing root-zone salinity. Nevertheless, this decrease was moderate at moderate salt concentration while substantial reduction in growth took place at EC level of 25 dS m−1. In shoots, total ash content, the concentration of Na+, Ca2+ and Mg2+was higher, while that of K+ and K+/Na+ were lower at high compared to low EC levels. This species tolerates a sudden shock of changes in its root-zone salt concentration ranging between EC 2 and 20 dS m−1. The paper also includes studies on field performance of this species in saline environment. Data presented from laboratory and field studies confirm the general belief that E. camaldulensis is a salt tolerant species. Because of its salt tolerance and high water use, this species appears valuable for strategic planting for the rehabilitation of saline and/or waterlogged soils. Economic feasibility and estimates are also made of the plant acreage needed for a small paper pulp mill. Contrary to the common belief, it did not appear to have an allelopathic effect on wheat production.