ROLE OF PROLINE, K/NA RATIO AND CHLOROPHYLL CONTENT IN SALT TOLERANCE OF WHEAT (TRITICUM AESTIVUM L.)

Abstract

Studies to determine the role of proline, K/Na ratio and chlorophyll contents in salt tolerance of wheat genotypes were conducted in lysimeters using hydroponics technique. Seeds were allowed to germinate under normal condition (1.5 dS m-1) and salinity treatment of 12 dS m-1 was imposed after one week of germination. Crop was irrigated at the interval of two weeks or whenever required with 1/4th Hoagland nutrient solution of respective concentrations. Results clearly indicated that wheat genotypes with higher proline, K/Na ratio and chlorophyll contents had higher grain yield. On the basis of yield reduction, three genotypes viz. Lu-26s, Sarsabz and KTDH were found tolerant. These genotypes also maintained the higher concentration of proline, K/Na ratio and chlorophyll contents under saline conditions.