Morphological and biochemical variation of Myrtus communis L. Growing in two contrasting habitats (Wadi al-Kuf and Wadi Azlifat), Al-Jabal Al-Akhdar, Libya
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.54172/w5hk1151Keywords:
Phytochemical composition , Myrtus communis , Habitat variation. , Amino acids, Phenotypic plasticityAbstract
Abstract:
Objective: This study investigates the impact of eco-geographical variation on the phytochemical, nutritional, and morphometric profiles of Myrtus communis L. (Myrtaceae) in two contrasting habitats within Libya’s Al-Jabal Al-Akhdar region: Wadi al-Kuf and Wadi Azlifat.
Methodology: Vegetative shoots, leaves, and fruits were collected during the summer of 2023. Analytical procedures included quantifying essential minerals (Ca, K, Na, Mg) using Atomic Absorption Spectroscopy, determining proximate nutritional values (protein, carbohydrates, fats, and ash), and profiling amino acid distribution. Additionally, morphometric traits of leaves and fruits, along with fruit physicochemical properties (pH, EC, TDS), were evaluated.
Results: The comparative analysis revealed significant habitat-induced variations, underscoring the species phenotypic plasticity. Specimens from Wadi Azlifat exhibited superior mineral density, with Calcium (Ca) levels (3.132 mg/g d.w.) nearly threefold higher than in Wadi al-Kuf. Fruit analysis in Wadi Azlifat showed higher acidity (pH 4.80) and more elongated leaf morphology. Conversely, Wadi al-Kuf samples demonstrated enhanced primary metabolism, yielding significantly higher crude protein (58.050 g/100g), greater total essential amino acids (0.118 mg/g d.w.), and larger leaf and fruit dimensions. Glutamic acid was the predominant amino acid at both sites.
Conclusion: The results indicate that the biochemical and morphological signature of M. communis is fundamentally modulated by local microclimates and edaphic factors. Wadi al-Kuf supports robust vegetative growth and protein synthesis, while Wadi Azlifat triggers adaptive mineral accumulation and osmotic adjustments, findings that are critical for the standardized pharmaceutical and nutritional utilization of the species.
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