University of Isfahan Journal of Plant Biological Sciences 3041-9603 16 2 2024 08 22 Effects of humic acid and mycorrhizae species on chlorophyll index, quantum yield, malondialdehyde content, and some traits of wheat under different irrigation regimes Effects of humic acid and mycorrhizae species on chlorophyll index, quantum yield, malondialdehyde content, and some traits of wheat under different irrigation regimes 1 18 29375 10.22108/ijpb.2025.143429.1378 FA Shahram Shahmarzadeh Department of Plant Production and Genetic, Faculty of Agriculture and Natural Resources, University of Mohaghegh Ardabili, Ardabil, Iran Raouf Seyed Sharifi Department of Plant Production and Genetic, Faculty of Agriculture and Natural Resources, University of Mohaghegh Ardabili, Ardabil, Iran Journal Article 2024 11 18 This study evaluated the effects of humic acid and mycorrhizal species on chlorophyll index, quantum yield, malondialdehyde (MDA) content, and wheat traits under varying irrigation regimes using a factorial experiment in a randomized complete block design with three replications. Conducted at the University of Mohaghegh Ardabili research farm (38°15ʹ N, 48°15ʹ E) during 2018–2019, treatments included three irrigation levels (full irrigation, severe water limitation at booting [BBCH 45], and moderate limitation at heading [BBCH 59]) and eight combinations of humic acid and mycorrhizal species (Glomus intraradices, G. mosseae, their combinations, and a control). Severe water limitation without amendments resulted in the highest electrical conductivity (341.1 µS/cm), MDA (0.17 µmol/g FW), and H2O2 (0.36 µmol/g FW). At the same treatment, full irrigation with humic acid and both mycorrhizal species yielded the lowest values (115.4 µS/cm, 0.019 µmol/g FW, and 0.14 µmol/g FW, respectively). Maximum leaf protein (14.09%) and grain yield (951.2 g/m2) were recorded under full irrigation with combined treatments, compared to minimum values (11.3% and 701.43 g/m2) under severe drought without amendments. Among severe water limitations, humic acid with G. mosseae and G. intraradices increased grain yield by ~24% over the control. These results underscore the efficacy of bio-organic fertilizers in enhancing wheat yield and drought tolerance by improving agrophysiological traits. Introduction Water scarcity represents one of the most significant abiotic stressors affecting plant growth and productivity on a global scale. This condition disrupts critical physiological processes, including hormone synthesis, transpiration, photosynthesis, and nutrient translocation, while simultaneously elevating ethylene concentrations in roots and altering metabolic activities. Mitigating the deleterious effects of water deficit by applying humic acid offers a promising, cost-effective, and sustainable strategy for promoting resilient agricultural systems. Additionally, bio-organic fertilizers, such as arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF), constitute an effective approach to bolstering plant tolerance to environmental stresses. AMF enhances drought resistance and optimizes plant growth by maintaining ionic equilibrium, enhancing photosynthetic apparatus functionality, and improving photosynthetic efficiency, quantum yield, and chlorophyll content. The combined application of humic acid and mycorrhizal inoculation is hypothesized to be an environmentally sustainable method for improving drought tolerance in crops such as wheat. Accordingly, this study seeks to evaluate the effects of humic acid and AMF on key physiological parameters—namely, chlorophyll index, quantum yield, malondialdehyde levels, and selected agronomic traits—in wheat subjected to varying irrigation regimes. Material and Methods This factorial experiment was a randomized complete block design with three replications at the Faculty of Agriculture and Natural Resources research farm, University of Mohaghegh Ardabili, during the 2018–2019 growing season. The experimental site is located at 38°15ʹ N latitude and 48°15ʹ E longitude, at an elevation of 1,350 m above mean sea level. The region is characterized by a wet climate zone with severe winters and hot summers in northwestern Iran, classified under the Köppen system as a semiarid, cold temperate climate. The experimental factors comprised irrigation at three levels—full irrigation, irrigation withholding at 50% of the booting stage (severe water limitation, BBCH code 45), and irrigation withholding at 50% of the heading stage (moderate water limitation, BBCH code 59)—and the application of humic acid combined with mycorrhizal species at eight levels: Glomus intraradices, G. mosseae, combined G. intraradices and G. mosseae, humic acid alone, humic acid with G. intraradices, humic acid with G. mosseae, humic acid with both G. intraradices and G. mosseae, and a control (no humic acid or mycorrhizal inoculation). Each experimental plot consisted of five 2-m-long rows, with 1.5-m unplanted buffers separating plots and blocks. Mycorrhizal inoculum (G. mosseae) was sourced from Zist Fanavar Turan Corporation, and soil treatments were applied following the protocol of Gianinazzi et al. (2001). Chlorophyll index measurements were obtained using a SPAD-502 device (Konica Minolta Sensing, Inc., Japan), with three readings per plot taken from the top, middle, and base of leaves, and the mean value per plot was recorded. Quantum yield was assessed on the uppermost fully expanded leaf using a chlorophyll fluorometer (Optic Science-OS-30, USA). For this measurement, plants were dark-adapted for 20 minutes using specialized clamps, and fluorescence was quantified at 1000 µmol photons m-2 s-1. Grain yield was determined by harvesting the three central rows (equivalent to 1 m²) of each plot. Data were subjected to analysis of variance (ANOVA) and mean comparisons using the SAS software package (version 9.12). Significant differences among main effects and interactions were evaluated using the least significant difference (LSD) test at P ≤ 0.05. Results and Discussion The results indicated that the highest values of electrical conductivity (341.1 µS/cm), malondialdehyde (MDA), and hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) content (0.17 and 0.36 µmol/g fresh weight [FW], respectively) were recorded under severe water limitation (irrigation withholding at the booting stage) in the absence of humic acid and mycorrhizal inoculation. Conversely, the lowest values for these parameters (115.4 µS/cm, 0.019, and 0.14 µmol/g FW, respectively) were observed under full irrigation with the combined application of humic acid, Glomus mosseae, and G. intraradices. The maximum leaf protein content (14.09%) and grain yield (951.2 g/m²) were achieved under full irrigation with the combined application of humic acid, G. mosseae, and G. intraradices. The minimum values for these traits (11.3% and 701.43 g/m2, respectively) were recorded under irrigation withholding at the booting stage without humic acid or mycorrhizal application. Notably, under severe water limitation (irrigation withheld at the booting stage), the combined application of humic acid with G. mosseae and G. intraradices resulted in a grain yield increase of approximately 24% compared to the control (no humic acid or mycorrhizal application) at the same irrigation level. Conclusion Based on the findings, bio-organic fertilizers' individual and combined application (humic acid and mycorrhizae) can enhance wheat grain yield under water-limited conditions by improving key agrophysiological traits. Acknowledgments Funding for the present research was provided by the Mohaghegh Ardabili University of Iran. The authors gratefully acknowledge the Mohaghegh Ardabili University. This study evaluated the effects of humic acid and mycorrhizal species on chlorophyll index, quantum yield, malondialdehyde (MDA) content, and wheat traits under varying irrigation regimes using a factorial experiment in a randomized complete block design with three replications. Conducted at the University of Mohaghegh Ardabili research farm (38°15ʹ N, 48°15ʹ E) during 2018–2019, treatments included three irrigation levels (full irrigation, severe water limitation at booting [BBCH 45], and moderate limitation at heading [BBCH 59]) and eight combinations of humic acid and mycorrhizal species (Glomus intraradices, G. mosseae, their combinations, and a control). Severe water limitation without amendments resulted in the highest electrical conductivity (341.1 µS/cm), MDA (0.17 µmol/g FW), and H2O2 (0.36 µmol/g FW). At the same treatment, full irrigation with humic acid and both mycorrhizal species yielded the lowest values (115.4 µS/cm, 0.019 µmol/g FW, and 0.14 µmol/g FW, respectively). Maximum leaf protein (14.09%) and grain yield (951.2 g/m2) were recorded under full irrigation with combined treatments, compared to minimum values (11.3% and 701.43 g/m2) under severe drought without amendments. Among severe water limitations, humic acid with G. mosseae and G. intraradices increased grain yield by ~24% over the control. These results underscore the efficacy of bio-organic fertilizers in enhancing wheat yield and drought tolerance by improving agrophysiological traits. Introduction Water scarcity represents one of the most significant abiotic stressors affecting plant growth and productivity on a global scale. This condition disrupts critical physiological processes, including hormone synthesis, transpiration, photosynthesis, and nutrient translocation, while simultaneously elevating ethylene concentrations in roots and altering metabolic activities. Mitigating the deleterious effects of water deficit by applying humic acid offers a promising, cost-effective, and sustainable strategy for promoting resilient agricultural systems. Additionally, bio-organic fertilizers, such as arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF), constitute an effective approach to bolstering plant tolerance to environmental stresses. AMF enhances drought resistance and optimizes plant growth by maintaining ionic equilibrium, enhancing photosynthetic apparatus functionality, and improving photosynthetic efficiency, quantum yield, and chlorophyll content. The combined application of humic acid and mycorrhizal inoculation is hypothesized to be an environmentally sustainable method for improving drought tolerance in crops such as wheat. Accordingly, this study seeks to evaluate the effects of humic acid and AMF on key physiological parameters—namely, chlorophyll index, quantum yield, malondialdehyde levels, and selected agronomic traits—in wheat subjected to varying irrigation regimes. Material and Methods This factorial experiment was a randomized complete block design with three replications at the Faculty of Agriculture and Natural Resources research farm, University of Mohaghegh Ardabili, during the 2018–2019 growing season. The experimental site is located at 38°15ʹ N latitude and 48°15ʹ E longitude, at an elevation of 1,350 m above mean sea level. The region is characterized by a wet climate zone with severe winters and hot summers in northwestern Iran, classified under the Köppen system as a semiarid, cold temperate climate. The experimental factors comprised irrigation at three levels—full irrigation, irrigation withholding at 50% of the booting stage (severe water limitation, BBCH code 45), and irrigation withholding at 50% of the heading stage (moderate water limitation, BBCH code 59)—and the application of humic acid combined with mycorrhizal species at eight levels: Glomus intraradices, G. mosseae, combined G. intraradices and G. mosseae, humic acid alone, humic acid with G. intraradices, humic acid with G. mosseae, humic acid with both G. intraradices and G. mosseae, and a control (no humic acid or mycorrhizal inoculation). Each experimental plot consisted of five 2-m-long rows, with 1.5-m unplanted buffers separating plots and blocks. Mycorrhizal inoculum (G. mosseae) was sourced from Zist Fanavar Turan Corporation, and soil treatments were applied following the protocol of Gianinazzi et al. (2001). Chlorophyll index measurements were obtained using a SPAD-502 device (Konica Minolta Sensing, Inc., Japan), with three readings per plot taken from the top, middle, and base of leaves, and the mean value per plot was recorded. Quantum yield was assessed on the uppermost fully expanded leaf using a chlorophyll fluorometer (Optic Science-OS-30, USA). For this measurement, plants were dark-adapted for 20 minutes using specialized clamps, and fluorescence was quantified at 1000 µmol photons m-2 s-1. Grain yield was determined by harvesting the three central rows (equivalent to 1 m²) of each plot. Data were subjected to analysis of variance (ANOVA) and mean comparisons using the SAS software package (version 9.12). Significant differences among main effects and interactions were evaluated using the least significant difference (LSD) test at P ≤ 0.05. Results and Discussion The results indicated that the highest values of electrical conductivity (341.1 µS/cm), malondialdehyde (MDA), and hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) content (0.17 and 0.36 µmol/g fresh weight [FW], respectively) were recorded under severe water limitation (irrigation withholding at the booting stage) in the absence of humic acid and mycorrhizal inoculation. Conversely, the lowest values for these parameters (115.4 µS/cm, 0.019, and 0.14 µmol/g FW, respectively) were observed under full irrigation with the combined application of humic acid, Glomus mosseae, and G. intraradices. The maximum leaf protein content (14.09%) and grain yield (951.2 g/m²) were achieved under full irrigation with the combined application of humic acid, G. mosseae, and G. intraradices. The minimum values for these traits (11.3% and 701.43 g/m2, respectively) were recorded under irrigation withholding at the booting stage without humic acid or mycorrhizal application. Notably, under severe water limitation (irrigation withheld at the booting stage), the combined application of humic acid with G. mosseae and G. intraradices resulted in a grain yield increase of approximately 24% compared to the control (no humic acid or mycorrhizal application) at the same irrigation level. Conclusion Based on the findings, bio-organic fertilizers' individual and combined application (humic acid and mycorrhizae) can enhance wheat grain yield under water-limited conditions by improving key agrophysiological traits. Acknowledgments Funding for the present research was provided by the Mohaghegh Ardabili University of Iran. The authors gratefully acknowledge the Mohaghegh Ardabili University.

https://ijpb.ui.ac.ir/article_29375_03415e7cfa7aa4bd9ac2aa92e185bf05.pdf

University of Isfahan Journal of Plant Biological Sciences 3041-9603 16 2 2024 08 22 Effects of endophytic fungi, Serendipita indica and Colletotrichum tofieldiae on the growth and morphophysiological traits of tomato plants at different phosphate concentrations in a hydroponic system Effects of endophytic fungi, Serendipita indica and Colletotrichum tofieldiae on the growth and morphophysiological traits of tomato plants at different phosphate concentrations in a hydroponic system 19 38 29383 10.22108/ijpb.2025.143232.1374 FA Fahameh Haghighat Department of Plant Production and Genetics, Faculty of Agriculture, Malayer University, Malayer, Iran Mehdi Ghabooli Department of Plant Production and Genetics, Faculty of Agriculture, Malayer University, Malayer, Iran Zahra Movahedi Department of Plant Production and Genetics, Faculty of Agriculture, Malayer University, Malayer, Iran Mohammad Abdoli Department of Plant Production and Genetics, Faculty of Agriculture, Malayer University, Malayer, Iran Journal Article 2024 10 30 This study explored the effects of inoculating tomato plants with the endophytic fungi Serendipita indica and Colletotrichum tofieldiae on their morphophysiological traits under low phosphorus conditions in a hydroponic system, using a completely randomized factorial design. Treatments included fungal inoculation (non-inoculated, S. indica-inoculated, and C. tofieldiae-inoculated) and phosphorus levels (1.25 mM and 10 μM monopotassium phosphate). Inoculation with these fungi markedly increased shoot and root fresh and dry weights, total chlorophyll, carotenoids, total sugar, protein, and nitrogen content, while reducing anthocyanin levels under phosphorus deficiency. The interaction between fungal inoculation and low phosphorus significantly boosted root nitrogen and phosphorus content. Phosphorus deficiency alone reduced shoot fresh and dry weights, total chlorophyll, nitrogen, and phosphorus, but increased root dry weight, anthocyanin, total sugar, and protein. Plants inoculated with S. indica and C. tofieldiae showed improved growth and reduced phosphorus stress symptoms. These findings underscore the critical role of these fungi in enhancing tomato performance under severe phosphorus deficiency. Introduction Phosphorus is one of the three major nutrients, along with nitrogen and potassium. It is critical in nucleic acids, phospholipids, proteins, NADPH, and ATP. Although phosphorus is abundant in many natural soils, the form that plants utilize, specifically, inorganic orthophosphate (Pi), is insoluble and diffuses slowly in the soil. This leads to phosphorus deficiency, negatively affecting plant performance, root development, metabolism, and overall yield. Numerous rhizosphere microorganisms form mutualistic relationships with plants, significantly enhancing nutrient uptake from the soil. The ability of endophytes to enhance plant growth and fitness highlights their potential as an eco-friendly strategy for improving drought stress tolerance and mitigating the effects of phosphorus deficiency. Therefore, for the first time, we investigate and compare the effects of two endophytic fungi, Serendipita indica, and Colletotrichum tofieldiae, on the growth and various morphophysiological factors of tomato, a key horticultural plant, in an aeroponic system. Materials and Methods This experiment was conducted in a completely randomized factorial design to investigate the effect of inoculation with the model endophytic fungi, S. indica and C. tofieldiae, on the morphophysiological traits of tomato plants under low phosphorus conditions in a hydroponic system in the research greenhouse of Malayer University. The treatments included fungal inoculation (non-inoculated, inoculated with S. indica, and inoculated with C. tofieldiae) and different phosphorus levels (1.25 mM and 10 µM mono potassium phosphate). Uniformly germinated seeds were selected and split into three groups for fungal inoculation. Two groups were inoculated with a spore solution of endophytic fungi, and the control group was treated with a water-tween solution. After a few days, the inoculated and non-inoculated seedlings were placed in pots containing Hoagland's medium with 10 µM and 1.25 mM mono potassium phosphate. Four weeks after applying the different phosphate concentrations, samples were taken from the aerial parts, and traits such as dry weight of shoots and roots, photosynthetic pigments, soluble sugar, phosphorus, nitrogen, protein, and anthocyanin were measured. Results and Discussion The results showed that inoculation with these endophytic fungi significantly increased traits such as fresh and dry weight of shoot and root, total chlorophyll, carotenoids, total sugar, protein, and nitrogen. Fungi seem to play an effective role in preserving and stabilizing photosynthesis by influencing the proteins involved in the photosynthesis process and the Calvin cycle, thereby increasing their expression (Ghabooli & Kaboosi, 2022). Additionally, inoculation with these fungi decreased the anthocyanin content under low phosphorus conditions. The interaction effects of inoculation with S. indica and C. tofieldiae and phosphorus deficiency on root nitrogen and phosphorus content were markedly, increasing these elements. Endophytic fungi increase the amount of phosphate and the growth of Arabidopsis plants under low phosphate conditions, indicating the fungi’s ability to dissolve insoluble phosphate forms (Hiruma et al., 2016). In the present study, phosphorus deficiency significantly reduced the fresh and dry weight of shoots, total chlorophyll, nitrogen, and phosphorus in shoots. At the same time, it increased root dry weight, anthocyanin, total sugar, and protein content. An insufficient amount of phosphorus causes a decrease in the production of RNA and, as a result, a decrease in the synthesis of proteins, including photosynthetic proteins. In addition, phosphate deficiency can lead to changes in the partitioning of carbohydrates in the plant, resulting in higher levels of sugars being transported and stored in the fruit (Hiruma et al., 2016). Conclusion The results indicated that plants inoculated with S. indica and C. tofieldiae exhibited better growth and performance under phosphorus deficiency conditions, with reduced symptoms of phosphorus stress. Overall, the results highlighted the influential role of these fungi in improving tomato growth under severe phosphorus deficiency conditions. This study explored the effects of inoculating tomato plants with the endophytic fungi Serendipita indica and Colletotrichum tofieldiae on their morphophysiological traits under low phosphorus conditions in a hydroponic system, using a completely randomized factorial design. Treatments included fungal inoculation (non-inoculated, S. indica-inoculated, and C. tofieldiae-inoculated) and phosphorus levels (1.25 mM and 10 μM monopotassium phosphate). Inoculation with these fungi markedly increased shoot and root fresh and dry weights, total chlorophyll, carotenoids, total sugar, protein, and nitrogen content, while reducing anthocyanin levels under phosphorus deficiency. The interaction between fungal inoculation and low phosphorus significantly boosted root nitrogen and phosphorus content. Phosphorus deficiency alone reduced shoot fresh and dry weights, total chlorophyll, nitrogen, and phosphorus, but increased root dry weight, anthocyanin, total sugar, and protein. Plants inoculated with S. indica and C. tofieldiae showed improved growth and reduced phosphorus stress symptoms. These findings underscore the critical role of these fungi in enhancing tomato performance under severe phosphorus deficiency. Introduction Phosphorus is one of the three major nutrients, along with nitrogen and potassium. It is critical in nucleic acids, phospholipids, proteins, NADPH, and ATP. Although phosphorus is abundant in many natural soils, the form that plants utilize, specifically, inorganic orthophosphate (Pi), is insoluble and diffuses slowly in the soil. This leads to phosphorus deficiency, negatively affecting plant performance, root development, metabolism, and overall yield. Numerous rhizosphere microorganisms form mutualistic relationships with plants, significantly enhancing nutrient uptake from the soil. The ability of endophytes to enhance plant growth and fitness highlights their potential as an eco-friendly strategy for improving drought stress tolerance and mitigating the effects of phosphorus deficiency. Therefore, for the first time, we investigate and compare the effects of two endophytic fungi, Serendipita indica, and Colletotrichum tofieldiae, on the growth and various morphophysiological factors of tomato, a key horticultural plant, in an aeroponic system. Materials and Methods This experiment was conducted in a completely randomized factorial design to investigate the effect of inoculation with the model endophytic fungi, S. indica and C. tofieldiae, on the morphophysiological traits of tomato plants under low phosphorus conditions in a hydroponic system in the research greenhouse of Malayer University. The treatments included fungal inoculation (non-inoculated, inoculated with S. indica, and inoculated with C. tofieldiae) and different phosphorus levels (1.25 mM and 10 µM mono potassium phosphate). Uniformly germinated seeds were selected and split into three groups for fungal inoculation. Two groups were inoculated with a spore solution of endophytic fungi, and the control group was treated with a water-tween solution. After a few days, the inoculated and non-inoculated seedlings were placed in pots containing Hoagland's medium with 10 µM and 1.25 mM mono potassium phosphate. Four weeks after applying the different phosphate concentrations, samples were taken from the aerial parts, and traits such as dry weight of shoots and roots, photosynthetic pigments, soluble sugar, phosphorus, nitrogen, protein, and anthocyanin were measured. Results and Discussion The results showed that inoculation with these endophytic fungi significantly increased traits such as fresh and dry weight of shoot and root, total chlorophyll, carotenoids, total sugar, protein, and nitrogen. Fungi seem to play an effective role in preserving and stabilizing photosynthesis by influencing the proteins involved in the photosynthesis process and the Calvin cycle, thereby increasing their expression (Ghabooli & Kaboosi, 2022). Additionally, inoculation with these fungi decreased the anthocyanin content under low phosphorus conditions. The interaction effects of inoculation with S. indica and C. tofieldiae and phosphorus deficiency on root nitrogen and phosphorus content were markedly, increasing these elements. Endophytic fungi increase the amount of phosphate and the growth of Arabidopsis plants under low phosphate conditions, indicating the fungi’s ability to dissolve insoluble phosphate forms (Hiruma et al., 2016). In the present study, phosphorus deficiency significantly reduced the fresh and dry weight of shoots, total chlorophyll, nitrogen, and phosphorus in shoots. At the same time, it increased root dry weight, anthocyanin, total sugar, and protein content. An insufficient amount of phosphorus causes a decrease in the production of RNA and, as a result, a decrease in the synthesis of proteins, including photosynthetic proteins. In addition, phosphate deficiency can lead to changes in the partitioning of carbohydrates in the plant, resulting in higher levels of sugars being transported and stored in the fruit (Hiruma et al., 2016). Conclusion The results indicated that plants inoculated with S. indica and C. tofieldiae exhibited better growth and performance under phosphorus deficiency conditions, with reduced symptoms of phosphorus stress. Overall, the results highlighted the influential role of these fungi in improving tomato growth under severe phosphorus deficiency conditions.

https://ijpb.ui.ac.ir/article_29383_a0b332aaa5023978c311b4b2eb401080.pdf

University of Isfahan Journal of Plant Biological Sciences 3041-9603 16 2 2024 08 22 Study of the Role of Nano-Silicon and Nano-Titanium in Yield and Yield Components of Durum Wheat Study of the Role of Nano-Silicon and Nano-Titanium in Yield and Yield Components of Durum Wheat 39 54 29404 10.22108/ijpb.2025.143469.1380 FA َAsghar Ebadi Associate Professor, Department of Plant Science, Moghan College of Agriculture and Natural Resources, University of Mohaghegh Ardabili, Ardabil, Iran Asghar Mehraban Assistant Professor, Dryland Agricultural Research Institute (DARI), Parsabad, Iran Hamid Ghorbanian Department of Plant Production and Genetics, University of Maragheh, Maragheh, Iran Journal Article 2024 11 26 This study examined the effects of silicon dioxide (SiO₂) and titanium dioxide (TiO₂) nanoparticles on durum wheat's yield and yield components. A factorial experiment was conducted using a randomized complete block design at the Moghan Faculty of Agriculture and Natural Resources during the 2019-20 crop season, focusing on cultivars and advanced durum wheat genotypes. Foliar application of nanoparticles was performed at three growth stages: late vegetative, early shooting, and early spike. Upon physiological maturity, 10 plants were randomly selected from each plot, and yield-related traits were recorded. Analysis of variance revealed significant genotypic differences in all studied traits. The foliar application of nanoparticles significantly influenced most traits, including plant height, peduncle length, spike length, grain number and weight per spike, straw weight, and grain yield per plant. Additionally, genotypes exhibited varying responses to different foliar treatments. Notably, the nano titanium dioxide (nTiO₂) application resulted in the highest overall plant yield, whereas nano silicon dioxide (nSiO₂) showed no significant yield difference compared to the control. The findings demonstrate that nanoparticle treatments positively affected key traits such as plant height, panicle length, grain number and weight per panicle, hundred-grain weight, straw weight, and grain yield per plant in most durum wheat genotypes studied. Introduction Durum wheat (Triticum turgidum L. var. durum) has always been crucial in people's nutrition in bread and pasta production. Durum wheat is a widely cultivated cereal crop in the Mediterranean basin and the tenth most cultivated species worldwide. Despite its low cultivation area, durum wheat holds significant economic importance, and estimates by the United Nations and FAO indicate that global demand for this product will increase by 2050. Several factors affect plants' growth and development, including chemical fertilizers' impact on increasing food production. Silicon (Si), the second most abundant element in the Earth's crust, has beneficial effects on the growth and productivity of various plant species under different environmental conditions. Reducing silicon in the soil is more significant for plants that do not have an efficient system for root absorption. Titanium has also been shown to stimulate plant growth, improve nutrient absorption, and enhance the quality and biomass of agricultural products. Titanium is also a helpful element and promotes the growth and development of agricultural products. The use of nanoparticles, such as silicon dioxide (nSiO2) and titanium dioxide (nTiO2), is emerging as a method to improve crop yield and sustainability. Nanoparticles can enhance plant physiological processes, improve chlorophyll levels, and reduce heavy metal toxicity. With the rise of nanotechnology, examining the effects of nanoparticles such as nSiO₂ and nTiO₂ on the yield of durum wheat is essential. In this research, an attempt has been made to investigate the impact of these two nanoparticles on the growth and development of durum wheat. Materials and Methods To study the effect of SiO2 and TiO2 nanoparticles on yield components of durum wheat, a factorial experiment was conducted using a randomized complete block design at the Moghan Faculty of Agriculture and Natural Resources during the 2019-20 crop season. In this study, two improved varieties and 16 advanced durum wheat genotypes introduced by the International Center for Agricultural Research in the Dry Areas (ICARDA) and the International Maize and Wheat Improvement Center (CIMMYT) served as the first experimental factor. Foliar application of nanoparticles at three levels (titanium, silicon, and control) was used as the second factor. Each experimental plot measured 3 meters long, with a row spacing of 20 cm and a planting density of 400 plants per square meter. Foliar spraying of nanoparticles was applied at three growth stages: late vegetative, early shooting, and early spike stages. After physiological maturity, 10 plants per plot were randomly selected, and their yield and other related traits were recorded. Results and Discussion Analysis of variance showed that there was a significant difference between genotypes for all studied traits. The effect of spraying with silicon and titanium nanoparticles was also substantial on most traits such as plant length, peduncle length, spike length, number and weight of grain per spike, straw weight, and grain yield per plant. Also, the results showed that the genotypes showed different responses to treatments of foliar spraying application. Genotypes G2, G3, and G13 exhibited the highest grain weight per plant. Overall, the nTiO2 application showed the highest yield per plant compared to control and nSiO2. However, no significant difference was observed between spraying with nSiO2 and control in grain yield. The results show that nanoparticles were effective in enhancing the vegetative growth of most genotypes and positively affected plant length, panicle length, grain number and weight per spike, seed weight, straw weight, and grain yield per plant in most of the studied durum wheat genotypes. Conclusion The results showed that the nanoparticles were able to increase the vegetative growth of most of the genotypes and had a positive effect on the traits of plant length, panicle length, number, grain weight per panicle, 100 seed weight, straw weight, and grain yield per plant in most of the studied genotypes. However, the response of the genotypes to the applied nanoparticles was somewhat different. This study's findings indicate that applying nSiO₂ and nTiO₂ nanoparticles in semi-arid regions can improve grain yield and serve as promising nano-fertilizers for durum wheat cultivation. This study examined the effects of silicon dioxide (SiO₂) and titanium dioxide (TiO₂) nanoparticles on durum wheat's yield and yield components. A factorial experiment was conducted using a randomized complete block design at the Moghan Faculty of Agriculture and Natural Resources during the 2019-20 crop season, focusing on cultivars and advanced durum wheat genotypes. Foliar application of nanoparticles was performed at three growth stages: late vegetative, early shooting, and early spike. Upon physiological maturity, 10 plants were randomly selected from each plot, and yield-related traits were recorded. Analysis of variance revealed significant genotypic differences in all studied traits. The foliar application of nanoparticles significantly influenced most traits, including plant height, peduncle length, spike length, grain number and weight per spike, straw weight, and grain yield per plant. Additionally, genotypes exhibited varying responses to different foliar treatments. Notably, the nano titanium dioxide (nTiO₂) application resulted in the highest overall plant yield, whereas nano silicon dioxide (nSiO₂) showed no significant yield difference compared to the control. The findings demonstrate that nanoparticle treatments positively affected key traits such as plant height, panicle length, grain number and weight per panicle, hundred-grain weight, straw weight, and grain yield per plant in most durum wheat genotypes studied. Introduction Durum wheat (Triticum turgidum L. var. durum) has always been crucial in people's nutrition in bread and pasta production. Durum wheat is a widely cultivated cereal crop in the Mediterranean basin and the tenth most cultivated species worldwide. Despite its low cultivation area, durum wheat holds significant economic importance, and estimates by the United Nations and FAO indicate that global demand for this product will increase by 2050. Several factors affect plants' growth and development, including chemical fertilizers' impact on increasing food production. Silicon (Si), the second most abundant element in the Earth's crust, has beneficial effects on the growth and productivity of various plant species under different environmental conditions. Reducing silicon in the soil is more significant for plants that do not have an efficient system for root absorption. Titanium has also been shown to stimulate plant growth, improve nutrient absorption, and enhance the quality and biomass of agricultural products. Titanium is also a helpful element and promotes the growth and development of agricultural products. The use of nanoparticles, such as silicon dioxide (nSiO2) and titanium dioxide (nTiO2), is emerging as a method to improve crop yield and sustainability. Nanoparticles can enhance plant physiological processes, improve chlorophyll levels, and reduce heavy metal toxicity. With the rise of nanotechnology, examining the effects of nanoparticles such as nSiO₂ and nTiO₂ on the yield of durum wheat is essential. In this research, an attempt has been made to investigate the impact of these two nanoparticles on the growth and development of durum wheat. Materials and Methods To study the effect of SiO2 and TiO2 nanoparticles on yield components of durum wheat, a factorial experiment was conducted using a randomized complete block design at the Moghan Faculty of Agriculture and Natural Resources during the 2019-20 crop season. In this study, two improved varieties and 16 advanced durum wheat genotypes introduced by the International Center for Agricultural Research in the Dry Areas (ICARDA) and the International Maize and Wheat Improvement Center (CIMMYT) served as the first experimental factor. Foliar application of nanoparticles at three levels (titanium, silicon, and control) was used as the second factor. Each experimental plot measured 3 meters long, with a row spacing of 20 cm and a planting density of 400 plants per square meter. Foliar spraying of nanoparticles was applied at three growth stages: late vegetative, early shooting, and early spike stages. After physiological maturity, 10 plants per plot were randomly selected, and their yield and other related traits were recorded. Results and Discussion Analysis of variance showed that there was a significant difference between genotypes for all studied traits. The effect of spraying with silicon and titanium nanoparticles was also substantial on most traits such as plant length, peduncle length, spike length, number and weight of grain per spike, straw weight, and grain yield per plant. Also, the results showed that the genotypes showed different responses to treatments of foliar spraying application. Genotypes G2, G3, and G13 exhibited the highest grain weight per plant. Overall, the nTiO2 application showed the highest yield per plant compared to control and nSiO2. However, no significant difference was observed between spraying with nSiO2 and control in grain yield. The results show that nanoparticles were effective in enhancing the vegetative growth of most genotypes and positively affected plant length, panicle length, grain number and weight per spike, seed weight, straw weight, and grain yield per plant in most of the studied durum wheat genotypes. Conclusion The results showed that the nanoparticles were able to increase the vegetative growth of most of the genotypes and had a positive effect on the traits of plant length, panicle length, number, grain weight per panicle, 100 seed weight, straw weight, and grain yield per plant in most of the studied genotypes. However, the response of the genotypes to the applied nanoparticles was somewhat different. This study's findings indicate that applying nSiO₂ and nTiO₂ nanoparticles in semi-arid regions can improve grain yield and serve as promising nano-fertilizers for durum wheat cultivation.

https://ijpb.ui.ac.ir/article_29404_c2d8d4ac9c607e9058df8badad2c6973.pdf

University of Isfahan Journal of Plant Biological Sciences 3041-9603 16 2 2024 08 22 The Effect of Exogenous Gibberellic Acid and Naphthalene Acetic Acid on Sex Determination and Yield Components of Cucumber (Cucumis sativus L.) cultivar Supernia F1 The Effect of Exogenous Gibberellic Acid and Naphthalene Acetic Acid on Sex Determination and Yield Components of Cucumber (Cucumis sativus L.) cultivar Supernia F1 55 70 29367 10.22108/ijpb.2025.144089.1393 FA Parissa Jonoubi Plant Sciences Department, Faculty of Biological Sciences, Kharazmi University, Tehran, Iran Masoumeh Arang Plant Sciences Department, Faculty of Biological Sciences, Kharazmi University, Tehran, Iran Journal Article 2025 01 19 To investigate the effects of auxin and gibberellin on the vegetative and reproductive growth of cucumber (Cucumis sativus L. cv. supernia F1), a factorial experiment was conducted using a randomized complete block design with 9 treatments and 3 replications. The treatments included auxin in the form of naphthalene acetic acid (NAA) at concentrations of 0, 50, and 100 mg L-1 and gibberellic acid (GA3) at concentrations of 0, 25, and 50 mg L-1, which were applied as foliar sprays every ten days from the 4- to 6-leaf stage until the end of flowering. The results indicated that treatment T9 (NAA at 100 mg L-1 combined with GA3 at 50 mg L-1) resulted in the lowest number of nodes, shortest internode length, and, consequently, the lowest plant height and leaf number compared to the control. The highest female flowers were observed in treatment T8 (NAA at 100 mg L-1 combined with GA3 at 25 mg L-1) and T9. Although treatment T9 exhibited the shortest height and fewest leaves, it also had the highest number of female flowers. The control plants showed the most significant height, leaf number, and male flower count. The highest fruit yield was obtained in treatment T8. Both treatments, T8 and T9, positively influenced plant yield and the conversion of female flowers into fruits. Therefore, simultaneous application of NAA at 100 mg L-1 and GA3 at 25 or 50 mg L-1 can increase yield in cucumber. Introduction Cucumbers (Cucumis sativus L.) are a globally valuable crop in the Cucurbitaceae family and are essential for nutrition and economic stability. Their improvement in yield and fruit quality is a priority for research. Cucumber sex expression in terms of hermaphroditism, monoecy, gynoecy, and androecy is genotypically and hormonally complex and is influenced by gibberellins (GAs) and auxins. While gibberellins (GAs) and ethylene are known to play roles in sex expression—promoting maleness and femaleness, respectively—auxins are also implicated in this process. Earlier research has found that NAA inhibits male flower formation, and GA3 induces cell division. This research investigates the combined effects of NAA and GA3 on cucumber sex expression. What is the effect of foliar sprays of NAA and GA3 separately and in combination on cucumber's vegetative growth, sex expression, and yield components? This research evaluates these effects on the Cucumis sativus L. Supernia F1 cultivar. The findings are of practical significance for enhanced fruit production in protected conditions. The hypotheses are that NAA increases female flowers, GA3 increases plant height but perhaps at the cost of female flowers, and the NAA/GA3 combination maximizes sex expression for higher yields. Materials and Methods The cucumber (Cucumis sativus L. cv. supernia F1) seeds germinated under greenhouse conditions. The experiment was a randomized, complete block design with nine treatments and three replications. The treatments included NAA at 0, 50, and 100 mg L-1 and GA3 at 0, 25, and 50 mg L-1. Foliar sprays of NAA and GA3 started at growth stages 4-6 and were repeated every ten days until flowering termination with a handheld sprayer in the evenings. The plant growth parameters (plant height, leaf number, node number, internode length) were measured every 7 days, and reproductive growth parameters (female flower number, male flower number, fruit number) were measured every 3 days. The data were analyzed with SPSS software version 26 and compared by Duncan's multiple range test at a level of 5%. Results and Discussion The T9 treatment had the lowest nodes (16.25), shortest internode length (3 cm), lowest height (48.66 cm), and lowest leaves (38.33), and the control exhibited the opposite trend (21.41 nodes, 3.81 cm internode length, 81.50 cm height, 61.08 leaves). T5 treatment (NAA 50 mg L-1+ GA3 25 mg L-1) possessed the maximum stem diameter (8.83 cm), and control possessed the minimum value (6.66 cm). T8 and T9 produced the maximum number of female flowers (14.5) and had a minimum in the control (10). The control had a maximum male flower number (122.26), and T9 had a minimum of 72.30. T8 provided a maximum fruit number (12.66) and fruit set percentage (87.28%), while that of control was 7.16 fruits and 71.94% fruit set. Treatment T9 positively affected fruit yield (12), and its effect was slightly lower than that of T8. The control had a minimum number of fruits, only 7.16 per plant. These findings reveal that hormonal balance is essential for fruit sets and that T8 treatment is the most appropriate combination for a maximum fruit yield under these specific experimental conditions. The results of this research corroborate the "one hormone" hypothesis of sex determination in cucumbers, suggesting that one hormone possesses both male and female cellular receptors, which suppress one sex while enhancing the other. Gibberellins have a dual role in suppressing femaleness and enhancing maleness, while ethylene promotes femaleness and suppresses maleness. There is a balance between stem cell self-renewal and differentiation in floral organ primordia development. Treatment with GA3 suppresses ethylene biosynthesis, consequently suppresses female flower formation and induces male flower formation. GA3 induces proteolysis of CsGAIP, eliminating transcriptional repression of class- B floral homeotic genes and resulting in stamen formation. Auxins positively influence genes that initiate ethylene biosynthesis and enhance female flower formation. Conclusion The use of NAA and GA3 together has been reported to regulate cucumber sex expression, vegetative growth, and production. Optimal concentrations of both hormones can promote female flower formation and improve fruit set and, ultimately, cucumber production. These findings provide insight into the hormonal regulation of sex expression in cucumbers and have implications for maximizing cucumber production in greenhouses. To investigate the effects of auxin and gibberellin on the vegetative and reproductive growth of cucumber (Cucumis sativus L. cv. supernia F1), a factorial experiment was conducted using a randomized complete block design with 9 treatments and 3 replications. The treatments included auxin in the form of naphthalene acetic acid (NAA) at concentrations of 0, 50, and 100 mg L-1 and gibberellic acid (GA3) at concentrations of 0, 25, and 50 mg L-1, which were applied as foliar sprays every ten days from the 4- to 6-leaf stage until the end of flowering. The results indicated that treatment T9 (NAA at 100 mg L-1 combined with GA3 at 50 mg L-1) resulted in the lowest number of nodes, shortest internode length, and, consequently, the lowest plant height and leaf number compared to the control. The highest female flowers were observed in treatment T8 (NAA at 100 mg L-1 combined with GA3 at 25 mg L-1) and T9. Although treatment T9 exhibited the shortest height and fewest leaves, it also had the highest number of female flowers. The control plants showed the most significant height, leaf number, and male flower count. The highest fruit yield was obtained in treatment T8. Both treatments, T8 and T9, positively influenced plant yield and the conversion of female flowers into fruits. Therefore, simultaneous application of NAA at 100 mg L-1 and GA3 at 25 or 50 mg L-1 can increase yield in cucumber. Introduction Cucumbers (Cucumis sativus L.) are a globally valuable crop in the Cucurbitaceae family and are essential for nutrition and economic stability. Their improvement in yield and fruit quality is a priority for research. Cucumber sex expression in terms of hermaphroditism, monoecy, gynoecy, and androecy is genotypically and hormonally complex and is influenced by gibberellins (GAs) and auxins. While gibberellins (GAs) and ethylene are known to play roles in sex expression—promoting maleness and femaleness, respectively—auxins are also implicated in this process. Earlier research has found that NAA inhibits male flower formation, and GA3 induces cell division. This research investigates the combined effects of NAA and GA3 on cucumber sex expression. What is the effect of foliar sprays of NAA and GA3 separately and in combination on cucumber's vegetative growth, sex expression, and yield components? This research evaluates these effects on the Cucumis sativus L. Supernia F1 cultivar. The findings are of practical significance for enhanced fruit production in protected conditions. The hypotheses are that NAA increases female flowers, GA3 increases plant height but perhaps at the cost of female flowers, and the NAA/GA3 combination maximizes sex expression for higher yields. Materials and Methods The cucumber (Cucumis sativus L. cv. supernia F1) seeds germinated under greenhouse conditions. The experiment was a randomized, complete block design with nine treatments and three replications. The treatments included NAA at 0, 50, and 100 mg L-1 and GA3 at 0, 25, and 50 mg L-1. Foliar sprays of NAA and GA3 started at growth stages 4-6 and were repeated every ten days until flowering termination with a handheld sprayer in the evenings. The plant growth parameters (plant height, leaf number, node number, internode length) were measured every 7 days, and reproductive growth parameters (female flower number, male flower number, fruit number) were measured every 3 days. The data were analyzed with SPSS software version 26 and compared by Duncan's multiple range test at a level of 5%. Results and Discussion The T9 treatment had the lowest nodes (16.25), shortest internode length (3 cm), lowest height (48.66 cm), and lowest leaves (38.33), and the control exhibited the opposite trend (21.41 nodes, 3.81 cm internode length, 81.50 cm height, 61.08 leaves). T5 treatment (NAA 50 mg L-1+ GA3 25 mg L-1) possessed the maximum stem diameter (8.83 cm), and control possessed the minimum value (6.66 cm). T8 and T9 produced the maximum number of female flowers (14.5) and had a minimum in the control (10). The control had a maximum male flower number (122.26), and T9 had a minimum of 72.30. T8 provided a maximum fruit number (12.66) and fruit set percentage (87.28%), while that of control was 7.16 fruits and 71.94% fruit set. Treatment T9 positively affected fruit yield (12), and its effect was slightly lower than that of T8. The control had a minimum number of fruits, only 7.16 per plant. These findings reveal that hormonal balance is essential for fruit sets and that T8 treatment is the most appropriate combination for a maximum fruit yield under these specific experimental conditions. The results of this research corroborate the "one hormone" hypothesis of sex determination in cucumbers, suggesting that one hormone possesses both male and female cellular receptors, which suppress one sex while enhancing the other. Gibberellins have a dual role in suppressing femaleness and enhancing maleness, while ethylene promotes femaleness and suppresses maleness. There is a balance between stem cell self-renewal and differentiation in floral organ primordia development. Treatment with GA3 suppresses ethylene biosynthesis, consequently suppresses female flower formation and induces male flower formation. GA3 induces proteolysis of CsGAIP, eliminating transcriptional repression of class- B floral homeotic genes and resulting in stamen formation. Auxins positively influence genes that initiate ethylene biosynthesis and enhance female flower formation. Conclusion The use of NAA and GA3 together has been reported to regulate cucumber sex expression, vegetative growth, and production. Optimal concentrations of both hormones can promote female flower formation and improve fruit set and, ultimately, cucumber production. These findings provide insight into the hormonal regulation of sex expression in cucumbers and have implications for maximizing cucumber production in greenhouses.

https://ijpb.ui.ac.ir/article_29367_bee25841efab37de9dab4705be7c41f5.pdf

University of Isfahan Journal of Plant Biological Sciences 3041-9603 16 2 2024 08 22 Salinity tolerance evaluation of rooted cuttings of some commercial grapevine cultivars (Vitis vinifera L.) Salinity tolerance evaluation of rooted cuttings of some commercial grapevine cultivars (Vitis vinifera L.) 71 94 29589 10.22108/ijpb.2025.144929.1406 FA Monir Ebrahimi 1Department of Horticultural Sciences, Campus 2, University of Guilan, Rasht, Iran Moazzam Hassanpour Asil Department of Horticultural Sciences, Faculty of Agricultural Sciences, University of Guilan, Rasht, Iran Abdollah Hatamzadeh Department of Horticultural Sciences, Faculty of Agricultural Sciences, University of Guilan, Rasht, Iran Rouholah Karimi Department of Horticulture and Landscape Engineering, Faculty of Agriculture, Malayer University, Malayer, Iran Journal Article 2025 04 14 In the present study, the salinity tolerance of 10 grape varieties, including Khalili, Rasheh, Bidaneh Sefid, Yaqouti, Siah-Qarabagh, Cardinal, Torkaman#4, Perlette, Flame Seedless, and Thompson Seedless, was evaluated using physiological and biochemical parameters under greenhouse conditions. After the rooted cuttings of the grape cultivars reached the fifteen-leaf stage, sodium chloride salinity treatments at two levels, including 0 and 100 mM, along with irrigation water, were given to the pots twice a week. The results showed that with increasing salinity levels, ionic leakage in leaves increased in all grape cultivars, and their relative water content decreased. The highest ion leakage and lipid peroxidation were observed in Bidaneh Sefid and the lowest in Rasheh and Crimson Seedless. In salinity of 100 mM sodium chloride, the highest relative water content of leaves was related to the Rasheh grape cultivar, and the least amount was associated with the Bidaneh Sefid grapevine. Under salinity stress, the amount of photosynthetic pigments decreased. The chlorophyll stability was higher in Rasheh and Flame Seedless cultivars compared to other cultivars. The accumulation rate of acclimation osmolytes, including proline and soluble carbohydrates, as well as the activity of antioxidant enzymes catalase, guaiacol peroxidase, and ascorbate peroxidase was higher in Rasheh and Flame Seedless cultivars in compared to other cultivars. Based on the measured indices, the cultivars were grouped into three groups: tolerant (Rasheh, Flame Seedless, and Yaqouti), semi-tolerant (Torkaman#4, Khalili, Siah-Qarabagh, Cardinal), and low-tolerant (Bidaneh Sefid, Perlette, and Thompson Seedless). Introduction Environmental stresses often affect the yield and quality of grapevines. Plants are equipped with a series of reactive oxygen species scavenging systems (enzymes and non-enzymatic antioxidants) to reduce or eliminate the damaging effects of salinity on cellular structures, especially biological membranes, which can significantly enhance adaptation to salinity through the removal of reactive oxygen species. In grapevines, increased salinity increases ion leakage and leaf membrane lipid peroxidation. Symptoms of salt stress in grapevines include reduced growth, leaf tip burn, leaf curling, flower wilting, branch loss, and leaf drop. The degree of necrosis develops first at the leaf tip and then spreads to the rest of the leaf. Tip burn appears earlier in mature leaves than in young leaves. Salinity stress decreases fruit growth, yield and quality in fruit trees, including grapes, through the decrease in water content and membrane elements and the accumulation of sodium and chlorine in leaves. Identifying the mechanisms involved in salt tolerance of cultivars and plant species is one of the first breeding strategies to select salinity-tolerant cultivars and genotypes in fruit trees. So far, the salt tolerance of some grape cultivars has been studied. However, the salt tolerance of the selected grape cultivars in this study has not been comprehensively investigated. Therefore, the present study aimed to screen the salt tolerance of ten commercial grape cultivars using morphophysiological indices and to identify the mechanisms involved in the salt tolerance of tolerant and salt-sensitive cultivars. Material and Methods This research was conducted in 2014 factorially (10×2) based on a completely randomized design with three replications (two pots per replication) under greenhouse conditions. The first factor included 10 grape varieties (Khalili, Rasheh, Bidaneh Sefid, Yaqouti, Siah-Qarabagh, Cardinal, Torkaman#4, Perlette, Flame Seedless, and Thompson Seedless), and the second factor was two salinity levels (NaCl; 0 and 100 mM). After the plants reached the 10-leaf stage, salinity treatments were applied along with irrigation water, and the pots were irrigated twice a week with Hoagland nutrient solution containing different salinity concentrations (including 0 and 100 mM (7.31 ds/m3) sodium chloride). Six weeks after the start of salinity treatment, samples of fully developed leaves from the middle nodes of the secondary branches were harvested. Indices such as chlorophyll and carotenoid content, ion leakage, membrane lipid peroxidation, hydrogen peroxide, relative proline water content, total soluble and insoluble sugars, total phenols and flavonoids, and antioxidant enzymes were measured. The extraction of sodium, chlorine, nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium nutrients from leaves was evaluated using the wet digestion method and concentration measurement of each nutrient separately with different devices. Statistical analysis was performed with SAS software (9.1.3) using Duncan's multiple range test. Results and Discussion According to the results, 100 mM salinity stress caused a decrease in morphological indices in all grape cultivars under salinity stress. Under 100 mM salinity stress, among the studied cultivars, the highest root length, root volume, and fresh and dry root weight were related to Rasheh and Flame Seedless cultivars, and the lowest root length and volume were associated with Siah-Qarabagh, Bidaneh Sefid, and Perlette cultivars, which indicates a greater sensitivity of the root cells of these cultivars to salinity stress and a decrease in growth under stress conditions. Among the cultivars studied, at 100 mM salinity, the content of chlorophylls a and b, as well as total leaf chlorophyll, in the Yaqouti cultivar showed more stability compared to other cultivars. According to the results, as the salinity level increased, the amount of ion leakage in leaves of all grape cultivars also increased, while their relative water content decreased. The highest amount of ion leakage and membrane lipid peroxidation was observed in the Bidaneh Sefid cultivar and the lowest in the Rasheh and Flame Seedless cultivars. At 100 mM sodium chloride salinity, the highest relative leaf water content was for the Rasheh grape variety and the lowest for the Bidaneh-Sefid variety. Under salinity stress, the amount of photosynthetic pigments decreased. Chlorophyll stability was higher in Rasheh and Flame Seedless varieties than in other varieties. The accumulation of compatible osmolytes, including proline and soluble carbohydrates, as well as the activities of antioxidant enzymes catalase, guaiacol peroxidase, and ascorbate peroxidase, was higher in Rasheh and Flame Seedless cultivars than in other cultivars. Increasing the enzymatic and non-enzymatic antioxidant system and the accumulation of compatible osmolytes while protecting macromolecules and cell membranes neutralizes the damage caused by oxygen free radicals caused by the increase in sodium ions and increases salt tolerance in grape varieties. Conclusion In general, it was found that there are differences between different grape cultivars in terms of salt tolerance, and cultivars with greater salt tolerance were able to show better salt tolerance by creating morphological and physiological changes compared to cultivars with less salt tolerance. Based on the measured indices, the cultivars were grouped into three groups: tolerant (Rasheh, Flame Seedless, and Yaqouti), semi-tolerant (Torkaman#4, Khalili, Siah-Qarabagh, Cardinal), and low-tolerant (Bidaneh Sefid, Perlette, and Thompson Seedless). Suggested for Conclusion: The findings reveal significant variation in salinity tolerance among the studied grapevine cultivars. Tolerant cultivars exhibited better growth and biochemical responses under salt stress, likely due to enhanced antioxidant defense and osmolyte accumulation. Based on physiological and biochemical indicators, cultivars were classified as tolerant (Rasheh, Flame Seedless, Yaqouti), moderately tolerant (Torkaman#4, Khalili, Siah-Qarabagh, Cardinal), and sensitive (Bidaneh Sefid, Perlette, Thompson Seedless). These results provide valuable information for breeding programs targeting salinity-resilient grape cultivars. In the present study, the salinity tolerance of 10 grape varieties, including Khalili, Rasheh, Bidaneh Sefid, Yaqouti, Siah-Qarabagh, Cardinal, Torkaman#4, Perlette, Flame Seedless, and Thompson Seedless, was evaluated using physiological and biochemical parameters under greenhouse conditions. After the rooted cuttings of the grape cultivars reached the fifteen-leaf stage, sodium chloride salinity treatments at two levels, including 0 and 100 mM, along with irrigation water, were given to the pots twice a week. The results showed that with increasing salinity levels, ionic leakage in leaves increased in all grape cultivars, and their relative water content decreased. The highest ion leakage and lipid peroxidation were observed in Bidaneh Sefid and the lowest in Rasheh and Crimson Seedless. In salinity of 100 mM sodium chloride, the highest relative water content of leaves was related to the Rasheh grape cultivar, and the least amount was associated with the Bidaneh Sefid grapevine. Under salinity stress, the amount of photosynthetic pigments decreased. The chlorophyll stability was higher in Rasheh and Flame Seedless cultivars compared to other cultivars. The accumulation rate of acclimation osmolytes, including proline and soluble carbohydrates, as well as the activity of antioxidant enzymes catalase, guaiacol peroxidase, and ascorbate peroxidase was higher in Rasheh and Flame Seedless cultivars in compared to other cultivars. Based on the measured indices, the cultivars were grouped into three groups: tolerant (Rasheh, Flame Seedless, and Yaqouti), semi-tolerant (Torkaman#4, Khalili, Siah-Qarabagh, Cardinal), and low-tolerant (Bidaneh Sefid, Perlette, and Thompson Seedless). Introduction Environmental stresses often affect the yield and quality of grapevines. Plants are equipped with a series of reactive oxygen species scavenging systems (enzymes and non-enzymatic antioxidants) to reduce or eliminate the damaging effects of salinity on cellular structures, especially biological membranes, which can significantly enhance adaptation to salinity through the removal of reactive oxygen species. In grapevines, increased salinity increases ion leakage and leaf membrane lipid peroxidation. Symptoms of salt stress in grapevines include reduced growth, leaf tip burn, leaf curling, flower wilting, branch loss, and leaf drop. The degree of necrosis develops first at the leaf tip and then spreads to the rest of the leaf. Tip burn appears earlier in mature leaves than in young leaves. Salinity stress decreases fruit growth, yield and quality in fruit trees, including grapes, through the decrease in water content and membrane elements and the accumulation of sodium and chlorine in leaves. Identifying the mechanisms involved in salt tolerance of cultivars and plant species is one of the first breeding strategies to select salinity-tolerant cultivars and genotypes in fruit trees. So far, the salt tolerance of some grape cultivars has been studied. However, the salt tolerance of the selected grape cultivars in this study has not been comprehensively investigated. Therefore, the present study aimed to screen the salt tolerance of ten commercial grape cultivars using morphophysiological indices and to identify the mechanisms involved in the salt tolerance of tolerant and salt-sensitive cultivars. Material and Methods This research was conducted in 2014 factorially (10×2) based on a completely randomized design with three replications (two pots per replication) under greenhouse conditions. The first factor included 10 grape varieties (Khalili, Rasheh, Bidaneh Sefid, Yaqouti, Siah-Qarabagh, Cardinal, Torkaman#4, Perlette, Flame Seedless, and Thompson Seedless), and the second factor was two salinity levels (NaCl; 0 and 100 mM). After the plants reached the 10-leaf stage, salinity treatments were applied along with irrigation water, and the pots were irrigated twice a week with Hoagland nutrient solution containing different salinity concentrations (including 0 and 100 mM (7.31 ds/m3) sodium chloride). Six weeks after the start of salinity treatment, samples of fully developed leaves from the middle nodes of the secondary branches were harvested. Indices such as chlorophyll and carotenoid content, ion leakage, membrane lipid peroxidation, hydrogen peroxide, relative proline water content, total soluble and insoluble sugars, total phenols and flavonoids, and antioxidant enzymes were measured. The extraction of sodium, chlorine, nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium nutrients from leaves was evaluated using the wet digestion method and concentration measurement of each nutrient separately with different devices. Statistical analysis was performed with SAS software (9.1.3) using Duncan's multiple range test. Results and Discussion According to the results, 100 mM salinity stress caused a decrease in morphological indices in all grape cultivars under salinity stress. Under 100 mM salinity stress, among the studied cultivars, the highest root length, root volume, and fresh and dry root weight were related to Rasheh and Flame Seedless cultivars, and the lowest root length and volume were associated with Siah-Qarabagh, Bidaneh Sefid, and Perlette cultivars, which indicates a greater sensitivity of the root cells of these cultivars to salinity stress and a decrease in growth under stress conditions. Among the cultivars studied, at 100 mM salinity, the content of chlorophylls a and b, as well as total leaf chlorophyll, in the Yaqouti cultivar showed more stability compared to other cultivars. According to the results, as the salinity level increased, the amount of ion leakage in leaves of all grape cultivars also increased, while their relative water content decreased. The highest amount of ion leakage and membrane lipid peroxidation was observed in the Bidaneh Sefid cultivar and the lowest in the Rasheh and Flame Seedless cultivars. At 100 mM sodium chloride salinity, the highest relative leaf water content was for the Rasheh grape variety and the lowest for the Bidaneh-Sefid variety. Under salinity stress, the amount of photosynthetic pigments decreased. Chlorophyll stability was higher in Rasheh and Flame Seedless varieties than in other varieties. The accumulation of compatible osmolytes, including proline and soluble carbohydrates, as well as the activities of antioxidant enzymes catalase, guaiacol peroxidase, and ascorbate peroxidase, was higher in Rasheh and Flame Seedless cultivars than in other cultivars. Increasing the enzymatic and non-enzymatic antioxidant system and the accumulation of compatible osmolytes while protecting macromolecules and cell membranes neutralizes the damage caused by oxygen free radicals caused by the increase in sodium ions and increases salt tolerance in grape varieties. Conclusion In general, it was found that there are differences between different grape cultivars in terms of salt tolerance, and cultivars with greater salt tolerance were able to show better salt tolerance by creating morphological and physiological changes compared to cultivars with less salt tolerance. Based on the measured indices, the cultivars were grouped into three groups: tolerant (Rasheh, Flame Seedless, and Yaqouti), semi-tolerant (Torkaman#4, Khalili, Siah-Qarabagh, Cardinal), and low-tolerant (Bidaneh Sefid, Perlette, and Thompson Seedless). Suggested for Conclusion: The findings reveal significant variation in salinity tolerance among the studied grapevine cultivars. Tolerant cultivars exhibited better growth and biochemical responses under salt stress, likely due to enhanced antioxidant defense and osmolyte accumulation. Based on physiological and biochemical indicators, cultivars were classified as tolerant (Rasheh, Flame Seedless, Yaqouti), moderately tolerant (Torkaman#4, Khalili, Siah-Qarabagh, Cardinal), and sensitive (Bidaneh Sefid, Perlette, Thompson Seedless). These results provide valuable information for breeding programs targeting salinity-resilient grape cultivars.

https://ijpb.ui.ac.ir/article_29589_dd63973ffcf621ec4e2e03aef7462763.pdf