Abstract: Suaeda species are vital pioneer plants in the ecological restoration of saline-alkali wetlands. Seed germination represents a critical stage for overcoming environmental filtering, which directly determines the potential for population establishment and profoundly influences the process and effectiveness of ecosystem reconstruction. However, there are several challenges in current research: single-factor controlled experiments often fail to adequately simulate the complexity of natural habitats; the coupling mechanisms among multi-scale environmental factors remain unclear; and studies on plant stress resistance regulation are still limited, with underlying mechanisms yet to be fully elucidated. We systematically reviewed 181 papers published by Chinese researchers since 1995 on seed germination in Suaeda species, and then summarized key factors and research progress from both biological and abiotic perspectives. In terms of biological factors, we focused on seed traits (heteromorphism, dormancy) and external biological influences (allelopathy, phytohormones), and examined their inhibitory or promotive effects on germination. Regarding abiotic factors, we outlined the regulatory effects of environmental conditions such as temperature/light, water-salt interactions, and growth substrates on seed germination, and summarized the advances in novel germination enhancement methods, including brown algae oligosaccharide application and heat shock treatment. Based on identified research gaps, we proposed future directions, including enhancing the practical application of germination technologies in field conditions, deepening the exploration of stress resistance and adaptation mechanisms, and promoting the development of big data-driven predictive models for ecological restoration. This review would provide a theoretical foundation and practical guidance for the application of Suaeda species in the restoration of diverse habitats.

Key words: Suaeda, halophyte, seed germination, influencing factor, wetland restoration