Elucidation of the morpho-physiological traits of maize (Zea mays L.) under salt stress

Abstract

Agriculture is an essential sector for the increasing world population, hence the need for more food production. However, the aim of increasing food crop production is mostly suppressed by abiotic stresses such as drought and salinity. Salinity is a major limiting factor that inhibits the potential of plant growth and productivity worldwide. Hence, understanding the mechanisms behind plant stress response is important for developing new biomarker approaches that will increase salt tolerance in crops. To survive, plants exhibit various morphological, physiological, and biochemical processes when faced with saline conditions. This study was carried out to explore and evaluate the morphological and physiological effects of salinity on maize grown in the absence/presence of NaCl, followed by measurement of the various growth parameters at the end of a treatment cycle. Results of the study revealed that salt stress significantly decreased growth parameters such as plant height, leaf number, leaf width, leaf area, leaf length, and shoot (weight and length). On the other hand, salinity decreased physiological traits such as stomatal count, stomatal density, transpiration, and respiration rates. This study has shown the negative effects of salt stress on the morphology and physiology of maize. These findings can be used as a reference tool in stress response studies focusing on salt stress pathways in maize and other related crops.