Lipids in Halophytes

Some halophytes are good sources of oil production for human consumption. However, lipids in halophytes have vital functions with respect to their adaptation to conditions of high salinity. They play an active role in cell membrane selective permeability to toxic ions. During the process of plant adaptation, the fatty acid compositions of halophytic lipids change to play a unique role. Fatty acid composition, as well as makeup, varies considerably from one organ to another in halophytes. This chapter discusses the lipid and fatty acid contents of halophytes, the effect of salinity on lipid contents and compositions of halophytes, the utilization of halophytic lipids by animals, and the interrelations between dietary fat and animal metabolism.