SOIL PHYSICO-CHEMICAL AND MORPHOLOGICAL ADAPTATIONS OF ARISTIDA L. SPECIES IN VARIED ECOLOGICAL ZONES OF PAKISTAN

Abstract In Pakistan, the widespread grass genus Aristida (Family Poaceae) was studied for its ecological distribution and adaptive features, focusing on soil and morphological characteristics. Four species—Aristida adscensionis, Aristida cyanantha, Aristida funiculata, and Aristida mutabilis—were collected from various ecological zones of Punjab. The study revealed significant differences in soil physico-chemical properties such as electrical conductivity (ECe), pH, organic matter, saturation percentage, and nutrient content, which varied across populations and influenced plant growth. Populations from different habitats exhibited variations in plant height, flag leaf area, and root and shoot biomass, reflecting the species' ability to adapt to diverse environmental conditions. For instance, A. mutabilis populations in nutrient-rich environments displayed greater root and shoot biomass, whereas populations in stress-prone regions showed reduced growth. Similarly, A. adscensionis populations from arid regions demonstrated enhanced biomass and plant height, indicating superior adaptation to semi-arid conditions. These morphological differences underline the adaptive strategies of Aristida species in coping with varied ecological stresses. The study emphasizes the importance of Aristida species in ecological research and conservation, providing insights into plant resilience and adaptation mechanisms in response to environmental stressors.