Abstract

SANCHEZ-URDANETA, Adriana B et al. Efectos del potencial de agua en el crecimiento radical de plántulas de Agave salmiana Otto Ex Salm-Dyck. INCI [online]. 2004, vol.29, n.11, pp.626-631. ISSN 0378-1844.

The aim of this study was to characterise the effects of substrate water potential (y_W) of the physiological and biophysical characteristics of root seedlings of Agave salmiana Otto ex Salm-Dyck under laboratory conditions. Seedlings of 3-4cm root length were maintained in vermiculite at y_W of -0.03, -0.65, -1.48 and -2.35MPa for 24h. At the end of this period a group of seedlings was re-hydrated and from another group roots were harvested and the elongation, dry and fresh weight, and proline content were quantified. Electrical conductivity, pH and the concentrations of Cu, Fe, K, Mn, Na and Zn were determined in the root re-suspension media. The effect of re-hydration on root growth after 24h was evaluated. The low y_W of the substrate did not affect significantly root length, but fresh weight diminished (23.5 to 49.2%), and the damage index increased 36.0%. The ions leached to the re-suspension media were not significantly affected and the proline root content increased from 1.6 to 2.1µmol·mg^-1 of dry matter. Roots continued growing after re-hydration.

Keywords : Déficit Hídrico; Electrolitos; Maguey; Prolina; Raíz.