Distribution and effects of ionic titanium application on energy partitioninand quantum yield of soybean under different light conditions

Abstract

Soybean growth and development response to ionic titanium application have never been investigated. Therefore, such study is needed to better explain the titanium (Ti) application for soybean crop. For the first time, we studied the effects of application of two Ti concentrations (12.5 and 25 mg L–1) on photosynthetic and chlorophyll (Chl) fluorescence parameters of soybean under normal light (NL) and shade conditions (SC). Compared to NL, SC significantly decreased Chl contents, leaf area (LA), leaf thickness (LT), plant dry mater (PDM), photosynthetic and Chl fluorescence parameters, total soluble sugar, and Ti uptake. Overall, Ti application (12.5 mg L-1) had more distinct effects on LA, LT, PDM, Chl content and Chl fluorescence parameters. In conclusion, these results implied that an appropriate Ti content can improve plant morphological and anatomical features by enhancing the photosynthetic characteristics, especially under shade conditions.