Comparative Study of Chemical Composition of the Halophyte Species Native to the Persian (Arabian) Gulf

Abstract

Extensive comparative characterization was performed to explore halophytes native to the Persian (Arabian) Gulf. Ten species collected from the Western region of Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates (UAE) were analyzed for their lignocellulosic components as well as for ash and extractives content. It was found that the species significantly differ in the content of carbohydrates, lignin, total ash-free extractives and total ash. The total ash content was found to negatively influence the content of carbohydrates. Based on the characteristics, it is concluded that Cornulaca aucheri is the most attractive as a source of carbohydrates, and Tetraena (Zygophyllum) qatarensis has the potential to produce the highest yield of the extractives fraction.