Spergularia marina
Spergularia marina · Accepted scientific name
Scientific literature: Very Sparse (0 studies) · ★☆☆☆☆
Spergularia marina is a resilient succulent herb commonly found inhabiting harsh coastal environments. This specialized plant has evolved unique physiological mechanisms to thrive under intense salt stress. By managing high salinity levels in its tissues, it can colonize sandy shores where most other vegetation fails to survive. Its ability to regulate osmotic pressure allows it to maintain hydration despite the constant presence of salt spray. Consequently, it serves as a vital component of maritime ecosystems, demonstrating remarkable adaptation to saline conditions.
- Synonyms
- Spergularia Salina Var. Asiatica · Spergularia Marina Var. Asiatica · 112 more
- Common names
- Not available
- Family
- Caryophyllaceae
- Distribution
- Africa
- Plant Parts
- Not available
Classification
Common Names
Spergularia marina is a resilient coastal plant recognized by many distinct names across different languages and regions. In English-speaking areas, it is most commonly referred to as the Lesser Sea-spurrey. Its diverse nomenclature extends to German, where it is known as Salz-Schuppenmiere, and to Polish, as Muchotrzew solniskowy. Other cultural identities for the species include the Danish Kødet hindeknæ and the Estonian Rand-sõlmhein. These varied common names highlight the widespread presence and botanical importance of this species throughout its global habitat.
Sources: Catalogue of Life (COL)
Synonyms
Spergularia marina is a species known to be associated with several different taxonomic synonyms within botanical literature. It is frequently identified under the name Alsine marina, a designation that captures its coastal nature. The plant's complex classification also includes various forms such as Alsine atheniensis proles marina and Alsine atheniensis proles urbica. Furthermore, researchers have documented specific variations like Alsine marina var. succosior and Alsine maritima proles urbica. Understanding these overlapping names is essential for accurately tracking the plant's identity across different scientific studies.
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Taxonomy
Spergularia marina belongs to the vast kingdom Plantae, representing a unique branch of the natural world. Within this kingdom, it is classified under the class Equisetopsida and the order Caryophyllales. Its specific lineage continues through the family Caryophyllaceae, which highlights its botanical connections. The plant is further identified by its genus, Spergularia, placing it within a distinct group of related species. Understanding these taxonomic relationships provides essential insight into the biological identity of this coastal plant.
| Rank | Classification |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Streptophyta |
| Class | Equisetopsida |
| Subclass | Magnoliidae |
| Order | Caryophyllales |
| Family | Caryophyllaceae |
| Genus | Spergularia |
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Distribution
Geographic Regions
Spergularia marina exhibits a broad and diverse geographic distribution across several key regions. It is widely found throughout Africa, with specific populations documented in Northern Africa, particularly in Algeria. The species also extends its reach into Northeast Tropical Africa and the landlocked territory of Chad. Beyond the mainland, it thrives across the Macaronesian islands, including the Azores, Madeira, and the Canary Islands. This widespread presence underscores the plant's ability to adapt to various coastal and continental environments.
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Identification
Morphology
Spergularia marina is a distinctive herb characterized by its self-supporting growth form. This plant typically maintains a modest stature, reaching a maximum height of only 0.4 meters. Depending on its specific environmental conditions, its height can vary significantly across its range. Most specimens are found growing at a minimum height of 0.05 meters, though many consistently reach at least 0.14 meters. These physical traits define the compact and resilient nature of this coastal species.
Sources: Global Inventory of Floras and Traits (GIFT)
Biological Activities
Compounds
Conditions
Spergularia marina, identified in the study as Spergularia salina, acts as a potent biological tool to treat salt stress in medicinal crops. When co-cultivated with Salvia officinalis, this halophytic plant significantly improves the sage's survival rate under high salinity. The presence of the halophyte buffers the negative effects of sodium chloride, preventing the excessive physiological costs typically associated with osmotic adjustment. Specifically, it helps mitigate the extreme overaccumulation of proline that occurs when sage is grown in monoculture. By reducing these metabolic burdens, the plant effectively enhances the overall salt tolerance and stability of the companion species.