Evaluation of the Morphophysiological and Phytochemical Characteristics of Persian Shallot (Allium hirtifolium Boiss) Landraces in Isfahan Province

Document Type : Research Article

Authors

• M. Mohammad Rezaei ¹
• M. Hassanpour Asil ²
• J.A. Olfati ²
• M.M. Gheisari ³

¹ Department of Horticultural Sciences, Campus 2, University of Guilan, Rasht, Iran

² Department of Horticultural Sciences, Faculty of Agricultural Sciences, University of Guilan, Rasht, Iran

³ Department of Chemistry, Islamic Azad University Isfahan (Khorasgan) Branch, Isfahan, Iran

https://doi.org/10.22067/jhs.2024.88274.1349

Abstract

Introduction
The Persian Shallot (Allium hirtifolium Boiss), an endemic and economically significant medicinal plant native to Iran, has garnered increasing attention in recent years due to its potent therapeutic properties and adaptability to diverse climatic conditions. Traditionally used in Iranian medicine, this plant boasts a rich phytochemical profile that contributes to its effectiveness in treating various ailments, including rheumatism, stomach ulcers, and microbial infections. Beyond these established applications, recent studies suggest that the Persian Shallot may also serve as a potential aquaculture regulator, further enhancing its value in both agricultural and pharmaceutical contexts. However, growing demand and the overharvesting of wild populations have raised concerns regarding the plant's long-term sustainability and conservation. Unsustainable harvesting practices pose significant threats to the genetic reservoir and ecological balance of its native habitats. In light of these challenges, there is a pressing need to promote sustainable cultivation practices and conservation-oriented harvesting strategies. Iran’s rich biodiversity and favorable agro-climatic conditions offer a strategic advantage for the cultivation, research, and export of high-quality medicinal plants such as the Persian Shallot. Research that focuses on evaluating local ecotypes and their nutritional and phytochemical characteristics can facilitate domestication efforts, genetic improvement programs, and the broader commercialization of this valuable species.
 
Materials and Methods
This study was conducted in 2022 across six distinct natural habitats of Allium hirtifolium in Isfahan Province, Iran. These habitats, which differ in elevation and environmental conditions, were selected to capture a broad range of genetic and ecological diversity. From each habitat, 50 individual plant samples were collected during the growing season, resulting in a total of 300 samples. The primary objective was to evaluate and compare the morphophysiological and phytochemical traits of Persian Shallot populations across these diverse environments. Morphological traits assessed included the number of leaves per plant, leaf surface area, and the fresh and dry weight of bulbs. These indicators were selected for their relevance to plant vigor, productivity, and commercial value. For phytochemical analysis, fresh leaf samples were processed using acetone-based extraction. The contents of chlorophyll a, chlorophyll b, total chlorophyll, carotenoids, and antioxidant activity were measured spectrophotometrically. This biochemical evaluation aimed to provide insights into the plants’ adaptive responses to environmental variables such as altitude, temperature fluctuations, and soil conditions. Data analysis was performed using Analysis of Variance (ANOVA) to determine statistically significant differences among populations. Cluster analysis was also conducted to group the habitats based on their morphophysiological and phytochemical traits. All statistical computations and visualizations were carried out using SAS, SPSS, and Microsoft Excel software.
 
Results and Discussion
The results revealed significant diversity among Persian Shallot plants from different habitats, indicating high levels of biodiversity due to environmental and genetic factors. Variations were observed in morphological traits such as fresh and dry weight, leaf area, chlorophyll, carotenoid levels, and antioxidant activity across the different populations. Altitude was found to be particularly influential, with plants at higher altitudes showing larger leaf areas and higher chlorophyll concentrations. These adaptations suggest that environmental conditions such as temperature and sunlight availability at different altitudes strongly affect the plant’s growth and phytochemical profile. Phytochemical analysis also showed higher antioxidant activity in plants from higher altitudes, likely due to environmental stress factors such as low temperature and increased UV exposure. These findings underscore the importance of altitude in influencing the biological and chemical characteristics of Persian Shallot populations. Cluster analysis grouped the different habitats, revealing distinct patterns of trait expression that reflect the plants’ adaptation to their environments. Understanding how environmental factors like altitude affect plant traits is essential for developing breeding strategies aimed at improving yield and medicinal properties. The study emphasizes the need for selecting landraces with desirable characteristics for both cultivation and conservation purposes. By considering environmental gradients in plant selection and breeding, we can ensure that the genetic diversity and valuable traits of Allium hirtifolium are preserved.
 
Conclusions
This study demonstrates the presence of significant biodiversity among Persian Shallot populations across six habitats in Isfahan province. The results suggest that altitude plays a critical role in shaping both genetic diversity and phytochemical composition, which are key to the plant's adaptability and medicinal value. The observed variations offer opportunities to select suitable landraces for specific uses, whether for their phytochemical content or their ability to thrive under certain environmental conditions. Further research should focus on identifying specific genetic factors contributing to this diversity. Molecular markers can be used to gain deeper insights into the genetic structure of these populations, aiding in the development of targeted breeding programs. By understanding the role of environmental factors and genetics in shaping plant traits, we can support the sustainable use and conservation of this important medicinal plant.

Keywords

• Antioxidant activity
• Carotenoid
• Cluster analysis
• Genetic diversity
• Natural habitats
• Weight of onion

Main Subjects

• Growing vegetables

©2024 The author(s). This is an open access article distributed under Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International License (CC BY 4.0).

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