Salinity effects on leaf development, photosynthesis and antioxidant enzymes in alfalfa (Medicago sativa L.) genotypes.

摘要

Lucerne genotypes: RL-88, T-9 and Anand-2, were subjected to three salinity levels: 2.9, 5.1 and 9.8 dSm-1. The total leaf area of the plant increased at salinity level of 5.1 dSm-1 and decreased at 9.8 dSm-1. Successive decline in leaf area ratio (LAR) was observed in the range of 7.3-25.0% with increase in salinity. Photosynthetic rate increased in all genotypes at 5.1 dSm-1 and decreased at 9.8 dSm-1. The salinity level of 5.1 dSm-1 increased peroxidase activity in genotypes RL-88 and Anand-2 whereas catalase activity increased for T-9 only. Both the enzymes act in coordination in the breakdown of H2O2. The total soluble protein also increased at 5.1 dSm-1 salinity. The characterization of esterase pattern showed genotypic differences as appearance/disappearance of bands in response to salinity..