We studied differences in salt stress response between two parental maize genotypes and their hybrid of the first filial (F1) generation. We determined their membrane stability index in addition to the content of photosynthetic pigments, superoxide radical, Na+, proline and sugars and the activities of ascorbate peroxidase, catalase and glutathione reductase. The F1 hybrid, known as Pusa Early Hybrid Makka 3 (PEHM 3), showed a higher membrane stability index and chlorophyll content and lower superoxide radical and Na+ content than its parents, the sensitive CM 142 line and the tolerant CM 213 line. This heterosis allows the conclusion that the hybrid might be better equipped to cope with salinity stress than both parental lines, although it did not show the best antioxidant protection or the highest sugar or proline content.
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