Evaluation of NaCl tolerance in the callus cultures of Suaeda nudiflora Moq.

Abstract

Salt tolerance was studied in the callus cultures of Suaeda nudiflora Moq. a dicotyledonous succulent halophyte. Growth was significantly inhibited at 50, 100, 150 and 200 mM NaCl. Inorganic ions and proline accumulated in response to salinity. Ion accumulation pattern reflected the utilization of Na+ as an osmoticum. Na+/K+ ratio rose steadily as a function of external NaCl concentration. Salt stress enhanced the activity of peroxidase, whereas it decreased activities of superoxide dismutase and catalase.