The Photochemical Reflectance Index (PRI) as a water-stress index

Abstract

Measurements of leaf reflectance in two narrow wavelength bands centred around 531 and 570 nm were carried out during withering of two contrasting functional and structural plant types: Chenopodium quinoa (Willd.) and Arbutus unedo (L.). The Photochemical Reflectance Index (PRI) = (R531 - R570)/ (R531 + R570) was calculated. The results showed that PRI could be used as a reliable water-stress index. However, some limits to the use of PRI have to be emphasized, e.g. the wilting of leaves during dry periods. If such limits are under control, PRI could be a non-destructive and low cost method for assessing plant water status.