Batís

Batís are a family of flowering plants, the Bataceae, found in coastal regions of the Americas and Africa. The family currently contains only one genus, Batis, and typically two to four species. The most common and widespread species is Batis maritima, commonly known as saltwort. Other species include Batis argillacea and Batis pendula.

These plants are characteristic of saline environments such as salt marshes, mangroves, and coastal dunes. They are well-adapted to high salt concentrations in the soil and are often found growing in areas that are regularly inundated by tides. Their adaptations include salt glands on their leaves, which excrete excess salt, and fleshy leaves that store water.

Batis maritima is a low-growing, sprawling shrub with succulent, opposite leaves. It produces small, inconspicuous flowers arranged in spikes. The fruits are small, round, and fleshy. The plants are dioecious, meaning individual plants are either male or female.

The family Bataceae is considered a basal lineage within the order Caryophyllales. Its evolutionary relationships have been a subject of research, with genetic studies helping to clarify its position within the order. Despite their limited diversity, batís play an important ecological role in their coastal habitats, providing ground cover and contributing to the stability of salt marsh ecosystems. They are often pioneers in disturbed coastal areas.