Effects of UV-Radiation on Photosynthetic Pigments and UV Absorbing Compounds in Capsicum longum (L.)

Abstract

The objective of this study was to evaluate the effects of UV radiation on photosynthetic pigments and UV absorbing compounds of pepper plants (Capsicum longum L.) inthe greenhouse. Pepper plants were grown ina uniform environment and after 35 days they were exposed to UV-A and UV-C radiation for 15 and 8 days, respectively. Changes in photosynthetic pigments, chlorophyll and carotenoids and UV absorbing compounds, flavonoids and anthocyanins were measured. Inthis study it was found that the content of Chl-a and Chl-b slightly decreased inUV-R exposed plants and although this reduction was not significant, the total chlorophyll (Chl-T) amount decreased significantly especially in UV-C exposed plants. Carotenoids concentration was also reduced in UV-R exposed plants and this reduction was significant in UV-C exposed plants. UV absorbing compounds were increased. Concentration of flavonoids was significantly increased in both UV-A and UV-C treatments. Although anthocyanin concentration was also increased in UV-R exposed plants, this rise was not significant. UV-C radiation significantly reduced number of leaves per plant, but no significant effect was found on leaf numbers of UV-A treated plants. The fresh weight was significantly decreased inshoot of UV-C treated plants but there was no significant change infresh weight inUV-A treated plants. Inthe root of UV-R treated plants no significant changes were observed infresh weight.