Nutritional and physiological evaluation of Atriplex glauca L. and Atriplex halimus L. as potential forage resources

Abstract The increasing frequency of drought and soil salinization threatens the sustainability of conventional forage production. This study evaluated the chemical composition (protein, fat, fiber, minerals) and physiological status (parameters related to water status and oxidative stress) of aerial parts of the halophytes Atriplex glauca L. and A. halimus L. to assess their potential as alternative forage for small ruminants. The protein content of both species (9.2%) meets sheep’s nutritional requirements (7–9%), in line with fiber levels and concentrations of Ca, Mg, Na, K, Fe, Mn and Zn. However, P concentrations (0.08–0.13%) were below the required range (0.16–0.38%), suggesting the need for phosphorus supplementation. Phenolic compounds, especially phenolic acids and flavonoids, were abundant, with isorhamnetin glycosides particularly prominent in A. glauca ; physiological differences were also observed between species. A. halimus showed higher water content and greater Na and K accumulation, indicating stronger osmotic adjustment. In contrast, A. glauca exhibited higher proline concentrations and oxidative stress markers, and greater antioxidant activity. Additionally, A. halimus had higher chlorophyll and carotenoid contents, suggesting better photosynthetic stability. These findings highlight the potential of both species as resilient plant resources under saline and drought conditions, contributing to sustainable biomass production in arid environments.