Salinace

Salinace is a term that can refer to several related concepts, primarily concerning the accumulation of salts. In agriculture and soil science, it describes the process by which soluble salts accumulate in the soil, often to levels that can be detrimental to plant growth. This salinization can occur naturally in arid and semi-arid regions due to high evaporation rates that leave salts behind in the soil profile. Human activities, such as improper irrigation practices (leading to waterlogging and subsequent evaporation) or the use of saline irrigation water, can exacerbate salinization.

The presence of excessive salts in soil water reduces the soil's water potential, making it harder for plants to absorb water, a phenomenon known as osmotic stress. High concentrations of specific ions, like sodium and chloride, can also be toxic to plants, disrupting cellular functions and nutrient uptake. Symptoms of salinization in plants include stunted growth, leaf burn, reduced yield, and in severe cases, plant death.

In a broader, though less common, context, "salinace" might also be used informally to describe the general process of becoming saline or salty, such as in the context of water bodies becoming more concentrated with dissolved salts. However, the agricultural and soil science definition is the most prevalent. Management strategies to combat soil salinization include improving drainage, using appropriate irrigation techniques, selecting salt-tolerant crops, and, in some cases, leaching salts from the root zone with adequate amounts of fresh water.