Changes in Morpho-Anatomical and Eco-Physiological Responses of Viburnum tinus L. var lucidum as Modulated by Sodium Chloride and Calcium Chloride Salinization

Abstract

Salinity in water and soil is among the major constraints to the cultivation of ornamental crops since it can affect their growth and aesthetic value. A greenhouse experiment was carried out to assess whether the application of two different salts (80 mM NaCl or 53.3 mM CaCl2, with a final ionic concentration of 160 mM) could differently modulate the anatomical and physiological acclimation of an important ornamental species such as Viburnum tinus L. var. lucidum. Eco-physiological analyses (e.g., leaf gas exchange and chlorophyll a fluorescence emission) were performed and leaves were subjected to light microscopy analysis to quantify functional anatomical traits through digital image analysis. Results showed that the two iso-osmotic solutions induced different structure-mediated physiological alterations in V. tinus plants. Photosynthesis was lowered by CaCl2 treatments (−58%) more than by NaCl (−37%), also due to the occurrence of photodamage apart from stomatal limitations. Neither Na+ nor Cl− exhibited toxic effects in leaf lamina structure which was reflected in the limited reduction in dry matter accumulation. Overall data were interpreted focusing on the coordination among leaf structural and functional traits suggesting that the fine control of functional anatomical traits contributes to physiological acclimation to both stressful conditions.

Hydrogen sulfide-mitigated salinity stress impact in sunflower seedlings was associated with improved photosynthesis performance and osmoregulation

“…In the present study, NaCl treatment caused a significant reduction in stomatal index percentage, stomatal area, and opened stomata, which was accompanied by wrinkling and shrinkage of epidermal walls. These findings agreed with those of Mohamed et al [ 50 ], De Micco et al [ 51 ], and El-Dakak et al [ 52 ], who reported reduced stomatal index percentage and stomatal width in different plant species under salinity stress. Additionally, many factors regulate stomatal mechanics, including ABA, NO, specific ions, and water channels [ 53 , 54 ].…”

Effects of NaCl and CaCl2 as Eustress Factors on Growth, Yield, and Mineral Composition of Hydroponically Grown Valerianella locusta

“…In fact, several studies have demonstrated the opposite. Mild and moderate CaCl 2 concentrations can lead to more intense phytotoxic effects than NaCl due to the bivalent nature of the former, the increased chloride concentration, and its toxic effects [ 86 , 145 , 146 ]. Moreover, Cl uptake and transport from the roots to the leaves is not as controlled as that of Na, thus drastically affecting plant metabolism and development [ 147 , 148 ].…”

“…Moreover, Cl uptake and transport from the roots to the leaves is not as controlled as that of Na, thus drastically affecting plant metabolism and development [ 147 , 148 ]. Nevertheless, the effect of Na, Cl, and Ca on the morphology, photosynthetic capacity, and ion accumulation might differ between plant species and can be a result of different salinity acclimation strategy [ 145 , 149 , 150 , 151 ].…”

Posidonia-Based Compost and Dredged Sediment in Growing Media Improve Tolerance and Nutrient Uptake in Ornamental Plants

“…The improved nutritional status of the CS growing media contributed to the high leaf nutrient concentrations, which results in an optimal growth [45]. The Mg leaf concentrations have been demonstrated to be similar in all CS growing media, indicating good maintenance of photosynthesis performance [46]. In addition, plants did not show changes in chlorophyll content, as chlorophyll degradation should be expected at Mg-limited conditions [47].…”