Ecophysiological and anatomical adaptation mechanisms of Gypsophila eriocalyx Boiss. to gypsum soils

Our study aimed to elucidate the physiological and anatomical mechanisms facilitating Gypsophila eriocalyx adaptation to extreme conditions. G. eriocalyx samples were collected from different regions of Turkey in May and August, representing areas with low, moderate, and high gypsum concentrations. The proline, calcium (Ca), magnesium (Mg), potassium (K), and sulfur (S) contents of the plants were determined. The proline value was highest at low gypsum content in August. K content increased in May and August correlating with higher gypsum levels. Conversely, Mg and S levels decreased in August with increasing gypsum content. Our anatomical results showed indicate significant root, stem, and leaf anatomical adaptations in G. eriocalyx under increased gypsum content. Reduction in root cortex was particularly pronounced in August. Additionally, periderm thickness and xylem vessel diameter decreased notably in high gypsum conditions. Under high gypsum content, stem cortical and sclerenchyma layers thickened, while trachea and druse diameters decreased. The width of leaf spongy parenchyma cells was greater under high gypsum content, whereas the size of stomata on the leaves decreased. It can be concluded that the physiological and anatomical adaptation mechanisms of G. eriocalyx give it the ability to survive in gypsiferous soils.