Growth, water status and nutrient accumulation of seedlings of Jatropha curcas L. (Euphorbiaceae) in response to soil salinity

Abstract

Effects of soil salinity on emergence, growth, water status, proline content and mineral accumulation of seedlings of Jatropha curcas L. (Euphorbiaceae) were assessed. NaCl was added to the soil and salinity was maintained at 0.3, 3.9, 6.0, 7.9 and 10.0 dSm-1. Salinity caused reduction in water content and water potential of tissues, which resulted in internal water deficit to plants. Consequently, stem and root elongation, leaf expansion and dry matter accumulation in seedlings significantly decreased. Salinity impaired succulence of stems and tap roots. Proline content in tissues increased as salinity increased. Likewise K, Na and N content significantly increased in tissues as salinity increased, while P, Ca and Mg content in tissues significantly decreased. We discuss changes in tissues and whole-plant accumulation patterns of nutrients, as well as possible mechanisms for avoidance of sodium toxicity in this tree species in response to salinity.