Abstract
The aim of this work was to assess the possible coordination mechanisms between leaf functional anatomical traits and physiological acclimation of potted Callistemon citrinus plants when subjected to two saline iso-osmotic solutions using NaCl or CaCl2. Digital image analysis was applied to quantify anatomical parameters with a specific focus on the occurrence of signs of structural damage as well as on alterations, such as the occurrence of shrunk tissues and accumulation of phenolic compounds. Morpho-anatomical analyses were accompanied by measurements of leaf gas exchange and chlorophyll fluorescence emission. Results showed that C. citrinus plants, when irrigated with the CaCl2 solution, induced a leaf morpho-anatomical structure which did not allow the maintenance of high photosynthetic performance under such conditions, compared to both controls and plants treated with the iso-osmotic solution of NaCl. Data collected seem to suggest a close relationship between anatomical traits and eco-physiological strategies in maintaining the photosynthetic efficiency under saline stress conditions and highlight the fundamental role of leaf anatomy in imposing the limits of plant physiology.
Highlights
The canopy volume, total leaf area per plant height and leaf dry weight were significantly lower in plants treated with the CaCl2 salinity solution
Specific leaf weight was significantly higher in salinity-treated plants compared to the controls, with maximum values in CaCl salinity treatment (CaT) plants
The overall results indicate that the exposure to NaCl induces the development of leaf quantitative anatomical traits in C. citrinus plants responsible for a better physiological acclimation under stress conditions compared to CaCl2, notwithstanding the same salinity level
Summary
Publisher’s Note: MDPI stays neutral with regard to jurisdictional claims in published maps and institutional affiliations. Callistemon citrinus, known as red bottlebrush, is an ornamental shrub belonging to the Myrtaceae family, commonly used in urban areas and in xeriscaping [1,2]. It is known that this species is tolerant to drought stress and salinity, attributes making it suitable for cultivation in arid areas [3,4], its flowering could be altered under prolonged water deficit [5]. The interest in understanding the mechanisms of plants’
Sign-in/Register to view highlights & summary Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
