Comparative Analysis of Macronutrients in Wild Plants from the Saline Ecosystem of the Lluta Valley, Northern Chile

The Lluta Valley, located in northern Chile, presents an ecologically unique intersection characterized by its varied climate and agricultural features. This region’s soils are notably saline with considerable electrical conductivity and fluctuating pH levels. Both agricultural activities and native flora thrive in this saline environment, drawing sustenance from the mineral-rich waters of the Lluta River. Our study aimed to quantify the essential and non-essential mineral elements, specifically calcium (Ca), Magnesium (Mg), potassium (K), and sodium (Na), in eight wild plant species of this ecosystem. We conducted a thorough geographical assessment and sample collection across four strategic locations within the Lluta Valley. Utilizing atomic absorption and emission spectrometry, we analyzed the harvested vegetative samples for their mineral content. The process involved drying and ash digestion of plant materials, followed by quantitative elemental analysis of the resultant solutions. The analysis revealed a diverse mineral composition among the species. Mg and K showed more uniform distribution, while Ca and Na varied more significantly. Notably, seven out of the eight studied plants exhibited sodium concentrations exceeding reference averages. These results suggest that the wild plants in the Lluta Valley have evolved varied adaptations to the saline conditions, particularly in managing high sodium levels.