The invasive species Tamarix first attracted the public eye in the 1990's when it was suspected of contributing to widespread drought and wildfires in the Western United States. Once purported to consume as much water as entire cities, very few plant species have received as much scientific, public, and political discussion and debate as Tamarix. Written by 44 of the field's most prominent scholars and scientists, this volume compiles 25 essays on this fascinating species--its biology, ecology, politics, management, and the ethical issues involved with designating a particular species as "good" or "bad". The book analyzes the controversy surrounding the Tamarisk's role in our ecosystems and what should be done about it.

Halophytes are those plant species that can tolerate high salt concentrations. There are diversified species of halophytes suited for growth in various saline regions around the world, e.g. coastal saline soil, soils of mangrove forests, wetlands, marshlands, lands of arid and semiarid regions, and agricultural fields. These plants can be grown in soil and water containing high salt concentrations and unsuitable for conventional crops, and can be good sources of food, fuel, fodder, fiber, essential oils, and medicine. Moreover, halophytes can be exploited as significant and major plant species for the desalination and restoration of saline soils, as well as phytoremediation. This book highlights recent advances in exploring the unique features of halophytes and their potential uses in our changing environment.