Helianthemum squamatum
Helianthemum squamatum is the only known species able to extract water of crystallization from rock and is able to derive up to 90% of its fluid requirements from gypsum using this process.[1]
| Helianthemum squamatum | |
|---|---|
.jpg) | |
Scientific classification  | |
| Kingdom: | Plantae |
| Clade: | Tracheophytes |
| Clade: | Angiosperms |
| Clade: | Eudicots |
| Clade: | Rosids |
| Order: | Malvales |
| Family: | Cistaceae |
| Genus: | Helianthemum |
| Species: | H. squamatum |
| Binomial name | |
| Helianthemum squamatum | |
By comparing the isotope composition of the plant's sap water to the isotopic composition of free water in the soil and water of crystallization within gypsum it was discovered by Dr. Sara Palacio of the Instituto Pirenaico de Ecología and Dr. Juan Pedro Ferrio of the University of Lleida that between 70% to 90% of the sap water came from gypsum during the summer months.[2]
References
- "Desert Plant Derives Up To 90% Of Water-Intake From Gypsum Rock". Neomatica: Science, Technology, and Humanity. Retrieved 7 September 2014.
- "The crystallization water of gypsum rocks is a relevant water source for plants". nature.com. Retrieved 10 September 2014.
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