EFFECT OF SUPPLEMENTAL UV-B RADIATION ON GERMINATION, SEEDLING GROWTH, AND BIOCHEMICAL RESPONSES OF SUNFLOWER (HELIANTHUS ANNUUS L.)

Authors

  • S. SHAHID SHAUKAT Institute of Environmental Studies, University of Karachi, Karachi-75270, Pakistan.
  • SAHAR ZAIDI Federal Urdu University of Arts, Science and Technology, Gulshan-e-Iqbal Campus, Karachi-75300, Pakistan
  • MOAZZAM A. KHAN Institute of Environmental Studies, University of Karachi, Karachi-75270, Pakistan.

Abstract

This investigation attempts to examine the effect of UV-B radiation on germination, seedling growth, chlorophyll a and b content, soluble phenol, anthocyanin and flavonoid contents of sunflower (Helianthus annuus L.). Final germination percentage was significantly reduced but germination velocity was enhanced. Chlorophylls a and b and total Chlophyll a+b content declined significantly in response to UV-B exposure. However, chlorophyll a/b ratio was substantially increased. Marked accumulation of soluble phenol was observed as a result of UV-stress. Anthocyanin and flavonoids were increased in response to UV-B radiation as they provide a protective mechanism to UV-radiations. These results are discussed in the light of the mode of action of UV-B radiation.

Author Biography

SAHAR ZAIDI, Federal Urdu University of Arts, Science and Technology, Gulshan-e-Iqbal Campus, Karachi-75300, Pakistan

Department of Botany,

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Published

2011-06-18

Issue

Vol. 1 No. 1 June (2011): Fuuast Journal of Biology

Section

Articles