THE SIGNIFICANCE OF HALOPHYTIC PLANTS IN THE PHYTOREMEDIATION OF SALINE SOILS AND ECOLOGICAL RESTORATION IN THE ARAL SEA REGION

Abstract

This article analyzes the significance of halophytic plants in the phytoremediation of saline and ecologically degraded soils and the restoration of ecosystems in the Aral Sea region. It examines the morphological, physiological, and biochemical mechanisms that enable halophytes to adapt to highly saline environments, as well as their role in stabilizing soil surfaces and reducing wind erosion and salt-dust transport. Furthermore, the article discusses their potential to improve soil properties, promote organic matter accumulation, enhance the activity of rhizosphere microorganisms, and support biodiversity restoration. The study argues that the scientifically grounded use of native halophytic species adapted to the environmental conditions of the Aral Sea region represents a promising biological approach to increasing the ecological stability of degraded areas and mitigating desertification processes.