UNICONAZOLE (S-3307) INDUCED CADMIUM TOLERANCE IN WHEAT

Uniconazole, a triazole, was applied to seed at a concentration of 0.1 g kg-1 seed to protect wheat plants from the toxic metal cadmium (Cd). The degree of protection afforded by uniconazole against Cd toxicity was assessed by measuring fresh and dry weights of shoots and roots and by estimating the chlorophyll and solute leakage level in the leaves. Fresh weights and dry weights of roots and shoots were higher in Cd + uniconazole treated plants compared to uniconazole and cadmium treatment alone. Uniconazole + cadmium treated plants were darker in color, having more chlorophyll. Solute leakage was increased with the increasing concentrations of Cd and loss of membrane permeability was alleviated by the use of uniconazole.