Influence of UV-B supplemental radiation on growth and pigment content in Suaeda maritima L.

Abstract

In a field experiment with a mangrove species Suaeda maritima L. grown under ambient and supplementary UV-B radiation corresponding to 20% ozone depletion, changes in growth and contents of photosynthetic and UV-absorbing pigments were determined. Supplemental UV-B irradiation for 9 d significantly reduced the growth and concentration of photosynthetic pigments. However, anthocyanin and flavonoid contents were significantly increased in UV-treated plants and which could be reduce the UV-B penetration and damage to the underlying tissues.