ASSESSMENT OF MORPHOLOGICAL DIFFERENCES IN FRUITS OF SUAEDA (SUAEDA FORSSK. EX SCOP.) SPECIES IN THE FLORA OF AZERBAIJAN REPUBLIC

The study of Suaeda genus is of particular importance in the taxonomy of the family Amaranthaceae (formerly Chenopodiaceae). This article presents the results of a comparative morphological analysis of the fruits of different Suaeda species in the territory of Azerbaijan Republic. Morphometric parameters of the fruits (shape, seed mass, width, length, pericarp characteristics) were studied in species such as S. altissima (L.) Pall., S. maritima (L.) Dumort. (≈S. prostrata), S. dendroides C.A.Mey (Moq.), and S. microphylla Pall. The results revealed significant interspecific differences in fruit morphology, which reflect the adaptive traits of the species to diverse ecological habitats. By studying the biodiversity and ecological roles of halophytic species in saline habitats, the research supports the conservation and sustainable use of terrestrial ecosystems and biodiversity (SDG 15- Life on Land).