What are halophytes and where do they typically grow?

Halophytes are specialized plants that have adapted to thrive in saline environments, such as coastal areas, salt marshes, and salt flats. Their unique physiological and morphological adaptations enable them to survive in conditions where the salt concentration is higher than in freshwater environments. These adaptations may include mechanisms to excrete excess salt, modify their internal osmotic balance, or utilize specialized structures that protect them from high salinity. This ability to flourish where other plants may struggle makes halophytes crucial for stabilizing coastal ecosystems and preventing erosion in saline habitats.

By thriving in these challenging environments, halophytes contribute to biodiversity and can often play a significant role in the ecological balance of their respective habitats.