Response of macrophyte Berula erecta to low concentrations of NaCl in vitro

Abstract

Macrophyte Berula erecta, grown in tissue culture, was exposed to various low concentrations of NaCl in the water (1–100 mg L-1). Added NaCl had a positive effect on plant’s growth and development. The number of shoots increased, as well as the length of the roots. The lowest concentration (1 mg L-1) increased photochemical efficiency of photosystem II (Fv/Fm) while the highest (100 mg L-1) slightly decreased it. Chlorophyll content was negatively affected by NaCl addition after 3 weeks. Carotenoid and anthocyanin levels were firstly raised and later lowered in NaCl treatment comparing to control. Overall, added NaCl had no negative effect on plants morphology, while decreased amount of pigments was observed.