ESTIMATION OF CHLOROPHYLL CONTENT AND DETERMINATION OF CHLOROPHYLL FLUORESCENCE IN BITTER CUCUMBER (MOMORDICA CHARANTIA L.) LEAVES UNDER SALINE STRESS CONDITIONS

It has been scientifically proven that one of the physiological processes most affected by salt stress is photosynthesis. In this context, it is important to identify the main mechanisms involved in increasing plant tolerance to salt stress. The photosynthetic intensity is directly related to the productive capacity of plant species, thus increasing the tolerance of plants to saline stress is a priority. The chlorophyll content and chlorophyll fluorescence were studied in two varieties (Rodeo and Brancusi) and three lines (Line 1, Line 3 and Line 4) of bitter cucumber (Momordica charantia), subjected to salt stress. Following the determinations, a higher concentration of chlorophyll was estimated in the control plants of the Brancusi variety and Line 4, in contrast to the Rodeo variety, Line 3 and Line 1. In the case of this variety and the two lines, the plants treated with the highest concentration of saline solution prepared by using sodium chloride (NaCl) (200 mM) shows a higher concentration of total chlorophyll content. During the treatments, the fluorescence was higher in the treated plants compared to the control plants.