The allelopathic effects of Atriplex canescens (Four wing saltbush) on seed germination of Salsola rigida

Abstract One basic method of improving rangelands in a country is the use of native as well as exotic species of plants adaptable. Among the but introduced species, Atriplex canescens has been introduced in many rangelands, but it is important and necessary to consider it’s effects on native species. In the current study the effect of chemical competition (allelopathy) of Atriplex canescens on germination of Salsola rigida has been taken into account. Salsola rigida is known as a native species of good quality traits in arid and semi-arid rangelands. In this survey 10% weight/volume (w/v) of extract from leaves and fruits of A. canescens was prepared and 25%, 50%, 75% and 100% concentrations were obtained through addition of distilled water. Distilled water was used as control treatment. Altogether five treatments of four replicates, based on a completely randomized design (CRD) were studied germination during 8 days. Different groups of treatments were categorized through Duncan’s new multiple range test. The results indicated that the available material in shoots of Atriplex canescens (fruits and leaves) exhibited allelopathic effect on germination of Salsola rigida. The highest percentage of germination was obtained from control while the lowest from the 100% treatment. In fact after exceeding of 25% concentration, germination reached its lowest percentage due to Atriplex effects.