Cytogenetic Indices, Germination Ability, and Content of Total Protein in Seed Progeny of Betula pendula from Various Areas of Voronezh City with Different Levels of Anthropogenic Pressure

Abstract

The chapter presents results of study of cytogenetic indices, germination ability, and total protein content of seed progeny of Betula pendula in areas of Voronezh city (Central Black Earth Region of Russia) with different levels of anthropogenic pressure. The seed progeny of Betula pendula has an increased indicators of germination ability and total protein in areas with low pollution levels as compared to control group (seeds collected in ecologically clean territory) and to the same parameters for areas with high levels of anthropogenic pressure. The study established a high positive correlation between seed germination ability and amount 138of total soluble protein. The parameter “amount of total protein” serves as a seed germination marker determining their germination abilities. It is believed that stimulation of protein synthesis is happening in seed progeny of European white birch collected in the area with low pollution levels.