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Effects of salinity on growth and cation accumulation of Sporobolus virginicus (Poaceae)¹

The University of Arizona, Department of Plant Sciences, Tucson, Arizona 85721 USA

Optimal growth of euhalophytes requires moderate concentrations of salt and, in dicotyledons, is associated with succulence and accumulation of Na⁺ in plant tissues. However, reports of salt-stimulated growth in monocotyledons are rare. Relative growth rate (RGR), biomass accumulation, and water content were studied in Sporobolus virginicus (Poaceae), a C₄ chloridoid grass, grown hydroponically with different concentrations of NaCl. Cation concentrations were determined by atomic absorption spectrophotometry. Optimal growth occurred at 100–150 mmol/L NaCl and was not dependent on nitrogen levels or accompanied by accumulation of Na⁺ in leaves. Biomass accumulation and RGR in plants grown at 450 mmol/L NaCl were greater than in plants grown at 5 mmol/L. The Na : K ratios were lower in leaves than in roots, indicating discrimination in Na⁺ and K⁺ transport. Secretion of Na⁺ increased from 166.5 to 336.7 mmol · g^–1 dry biomass · d^–1 as the NaCl concentration of the nutrient solution increased from 125 mmol/L to 450 mmol/L. Water concentrations of leaves and shoots were significantly greater in plants grown at optimal levels of salinity than in plants grown at lower or higher salinities. These results demonstrate salt-stimulated growth in a monocotyledon.

Key Words: cation accumulation • chloridoid grasses • halophyte • osmotic adjustment • Na : K ratio • Na⁺ secretion • Poaceae • salt-stimulated growth • Sporobolus virginicus

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