Sustainable Restoration of Desert Ecosystems Through BIOGEMI-Based Soil Amendment: Improvements in Chlorophyll Content and Soil Properties in Haloxylon ammodendron

Document Type : Research Article

Authors

1 Department of Natural Resources Research, Isfahan Agricultural and Natural Resources Research and Education Center (AREEO), Isfahan, Iran.

2 GEO of Nano Vahed Sanat Persia, Isfahan, Iran.

Abstract

Drought is one of the most significant limiting factor for plant growth in arid regions, and traditional methods such as irrigation and fertilization offer limited effectiveness. In this context, BIOGEMI technology presents an innovative approach to mitigating drought stress by improving the biological and physical properties of soil and increasing its water-holding capacity. This study aimed to evaluate the effects of BIOGEMI on improving soil characteristics and chlorophyll content in Haloxylon ammodendron in the Fesaran area of the Sagzi Plain in Isfahan Province, a region characterized by saline and calcareous soils. The experiments were conducted using 144 Haloxylon seedlings, divided into BIOGEMI-treated and control groups. Parameters such as biomass, chlorophyll content, and relative water content (RWC) were measured and compared between treatments. Soil samples were also analyzed at the beginning and end of the experiments to assess physical and chemical changes. Results showed that chlorophyll a and b levels in the treated plants were 15% and 111% higher respectively, than in the control group, indicating a significant improvement in photosynthesis. The fresh and dry weight of aerial parts increased by 48% and 32.8%, respectively. Soil conditions also were improved after treatment: salinity decreased by 88.6%, and organic matter content increased by 50%. Additionally, the RWC in treated plants was 41.6% higher than in the control group, indicating enhanced drought tolerance. Overall, these findings confirm that BIOGEMI technology can serve as an effective tool for desertification control and the sustainable management of soil and water resources.

Keywords

Main Subjects

References

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Journal of the Earth and Space Physics
Volume 51, Issue 4
online publication date: 17 March 2026
March 2026
Pages 153-165

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