Arthrophytum

Arthrophytum is a former genus of flowering plants belonging to the family Amaranthaceae, subfamily Salicornioideae (formerly Chenopodiaceae). These plants are halophytes, adapted to saline environments.

The name Arthrophytum is derived from the Greek words "arthron" (joint) and "phyton" (plant), referring to the jointed appearance of their stems.

Historically, species assigned to Arthrophytum were found in Central Asia, particularly in regions around the Caspian Sea and extending eastwards. They typically inhabit salt marshes, saline deserts, and other areas with high salt concentrations in the soil.

Arthrophytum as a genus is no longer recognized. The species formerly classified under this genus have been reclassified and are now generally included within the genus Halostachys. Consequently, the name Arthrophytum is considered a synonym of Halostachys. This taxonomic change reflects a better understanding of the evolutionary relationships within the Salicornioideae subfamily based on molecular and morphological data. Refer to Halostachys for current botanical information on these plants.