The Effect of Sodium Ions on the Anatomical Structure and Growth of Early Simmondsia chinensis (Link) C.K. Schneid. Roots under Reduced Water Potential and Temperature

Abstract

T HIS STUDY deals with the effects of tri-factorial interaction on some traits (elongation; weight and biomass accumulation efficiency of roots) and anatomical features of seedling Simmondsia chinensis roots. The obtained data indicated that, the moderate sodicity affected the root length which was enhanced by the sub optimal and optimal temperatures with low salinity stress. The decreased root elongation was inhibited under supra optimal temperature with decreased Ψ s . Statistically, the Ψ s had a dominant role while temperature effect was secondary on the root length and weight. It was found that, the temperature ranges from 20 to 28 was favorable for well development of the root anatomical structures and the root hairs formation, particular at low osmotic stress and moderate sodicity. Adversely, the elevated temperature had a deleterious effect on the root circulation which caused a wider vascular cylinder with narrower root cortex, as well as a distortion {lysis} of parenchymatous cells. The effect of the investigated factors and their combinations on the efficiency of cortical layer and xylem vessels was discussed.