Effect of different cadmium concentration on Growth. photosynthesis and ion relation of wheat

ABSTRACT

The effect of Cd2+ on growth, photosynthesis and ion relations of hydroponically grown wheat plants was studied in a greenhouse experiment. Four different concentrations of Cd2+ [0, 1, 5 and 10 muM cadmium sulfate] were applied. Root and shoot dry weight, relative growth rate [RGR], net assimilating ratio [NAR] were significantly reduced by 5 and 10 muM Cd. The application of Cd2+ resulted in reduction of photosynthesis and transpiration. Data concerning the accumulation of cadmium in root and shoot as function of time and external cadmium concentration indicated that cadmium content of the shoot was low as compared with that in root. The application of Cd2+ was found to affect the nutrient concentration of root and shoot tissue and their uptake by plant