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saltloving goosefoot
Scientific Name: Chenopodium macrospermum var. halophilum
Family: Chenopodiaceae
Category: Dicot
Growth: Forb/herb
Duration: Annual
Other Names:
Quinoa (Chenopodium quinoa) and Other Goosefoots
This page explores the fascinating world of quinoa and other plants in the goosefoot family (Chenopodiaceae), highlighting their unique characteristics and adaptations. From the nutritious seeds of quinoa to the salt tolerance of many goosefoot species, these plants offer a diverse range of features and ecological roles.
Scientific Name and Common Names
- Scientific Name: Chenopodium quinoa
- Common Names: Quinoa (specifically for the seeds of Chenopodium quinoa), Goosefoot, Lamb's-quarter (for similar-looking edible species). Other common names include Oakleaf Goosefoot and Oak-leaved Goosefoot.
Taxonomy and Nomenclature
- Family: Chenopodiaceae (Goosefoot family)
- The goosefoot family comprises 97 genera and 1,300 species worldwide.
- Synonyms and related species to consider include:
- Chenopodium subglabrum (Smooth Goosefoot)
- Atriplex patula (Orach or Salt Bush)
Considerations for Pets
- Leaves of plants such as Atriplex patula (Orach or Goosefoot or Salt Bush) can reach toxic levels of salt over time.
Distribution and Habitat
- Chenopodium quinoa is native to the Andean region of South America.
- Many goosefoot species are halophytes (salt-loving plants) found in salt marshes, saline meadows, and coastal areas such as the Yellow Sea and the IJzer estuary.
- Some species, like Chenopodium subglabrum (Smooth Goosefoot), are native to North America.
- Goosefoots can also be found in waste lands and ruderal environments.
Ecological Role
- Many goosefoot species are salt-tolerant (halophytes) or drought-resistant (xerophytes), allowing them to thrive in challenging environments.
- Some goosefoot species are considered troublesome weeds.
- Goosefoots can play a role in soil nitrogen levels.
Morphological Characteristics and Growth Habits
- The name Chenopodium means "goose foot," referring to the shape of the leaves.
- Some goosefoot species are succulent.
- Halophytes in the goosefoot family often have bladderlike hairs.
Interactions with Other Organisms
- Crabs have been observed feeding on Suaeda salsa (a goosefoot) in saline meadows.
- Larvae may bore into the stems of goosefoot plants, indicated by frass extruding from small holes.
Quirky Facts
- Seed germination in the goosefoot family is considered unique.