Biogeochemistry of Sandy Desert Soils in the Bukhara Oasis and the Sparse-Leaved Yantok (Alhagi sparsifolia) Plant (A Case Study of Shofirkon District)
Abstract
This study investigated the distribution characteristics of macroelements (Na, K, Ca) in the stem, leaves, and seeds of the sparse-leaved yantok (Alhagi sparsifolia) plant growing in sandy desert soils. The research findings revealed the selective accumulation of elements within plant tissues and identified potassium as the dominant element accumulated across all organs. In particular, the high concentration of potassium in generative organs is explained by the plant’s metabolic activity and reproductive stability. The predominant accumulation of sodium in the leaves indicates the presence of an adaptive mechanism that maintains osmotic balance through the deposition of ions in vegetative tissues. The relatively low calcium content is associated with its limited bioavailability in sandy soils. The bioaccumulation of the studied elements followed the sequence K > Na > Ca, reflecting the selective mineral nutrition strategy of the sparse-leaved yantok adapted to arid environments. The obtained results suggest that this plant can serve as an important bioindicator for assessing macroelement migration in desert ecosystems and provide a scientific basis for a deeper understanding of biogeochemical processes within the soil–plant system.