Physiological responses of Vicia faba to copper toxicity

Abstract

Abstract. Copper plays an important role in multiple plant physiological processes including photosynthesis and protein synthesis. Excess copper in tissues leads to physiological and biochemical disturbances. In order to determine the physiological response of Vicia faba L. to copper toxicity, two varieties (Sidi Aïch and Super Aguadulce) were grown in a substrate of sand and compost (3V/V) and contaminated by different doses of Cu (0, 80, 160, 240, 320, 400 mg kg-1). Dose rates ≥160 mg kg-1 led to the accumulation of copper in roots and shoots, in turn leading to decreases in photosynthetic activity and protein content and to the accumulation of proline, a stress indicator, and soluble sugars.