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| Publication Type | J |
| Authors | Mahmood, S., A. Irshad and S. Ishtiaq |
| Title | Bunch Grass (Cenchrus ciliaris L): A Potential Forage Crop for Saline Environment |
| Source | Philippine Journal of Crop Science |
| Abstract | The growth and biochemical responses of Cenchrus ciliaris L. (Bunch grass) were investigated under varying levels of salinity under controlled growth conditions. C. ciliaris rhizomes were planted in pots acclimatized for 21 days, then subjected to 0 (control), 50, 100, 150 and 200 m mol L-1 NaCl in full strength Hoagland solution for 60 d. Elevated level (200 m mol L-1) of salinity induced a significant (P<0.05) reduction in fresh and dry biomass of plants. Macronutrient (Na+, Ca2+, Mg2+, K+)of the roots and the shoots were also influenced by salt stress, but more drastic change (P<0.05) was observed in the shoots. A steady K+ uptake by the shoots was observed with increasing salt levels. Both Fe and Zn contents of the shoot progressively declined, which was much profound at 200 m mol L-1 NaCl. An appreciable increase of (up to 3 fold was observed) in the amount of proteins and total soluble sugars were noticed after exposure to different salinity levels. C. ciliaris appeared to cope with salt stress through an integrated mechanism of salt tolerance, which includes greater K+ uptake, capacity to maintain Na+/Ca2+ ratios and enhanced biosynthesis of protein and sugars. The study has shown the salt tolerance potential of C. ciliaris, and has the potential to be grown as a substitute for traditional forage crops under saline condition. |
| ISSN | 0115-463X |
| ISBN | 0115-463X |
| Publication Date | Apr |
| Year Published | 2014 |
| Volume | 39 |
| Issue | 1 |
| Beginning Page | 52-57 |
| Unique Article Identifier | WOS:000334979900006 |
| Plants associated with this reference |