Evaluation of Capsicum annum L. genotypes against salinity induced by NaCl

Soil salinity harmfully effect bell pepper production being salt sensitive crop. The aim of this study was to compare capsicum (bell-pepper) cultivars for their ability to tolerate salt stress. Electrical conductivity of different levels i.e., control (no sodium chloride), 1.5, 3.0, 4.5, and 6.0 dS m-1, was developed by using NaCl, after 30 days of seedling emergence of six cultivars (Yolo Wonder, California Wonder, Cop-amber Hybrid, F1 Pangs No. 206, Sweet Pepper F1, Kaka F1). These cultivars were evaluated based on morphological (shoot and root length, plant fresh and dry biomass), physiological (chlorophyll content) and biochemical attributes (nitrogen concentration, and protein contents). Minimum chlorophyll contents (SPAD units) in Kaka F1 (16.77 SPAD units) at 1.5 dSm-1. However, maximum value of chlorophyll contents was observed in Sweet Pepper F1 (49.23 SPAD units) at control followed by “Yolo Wonder” (41.53 SPAD units) at control. Maximum dry biomass was found in California Wonder (0.468 g) at 1.5 dSm-1, while minimum value of dry biomass (g) was observed in Kaka F1 (0.095 g) at 4.5 dSm-1. Six cultivars of capsicum were categorized into three groups. Salt tolerant cultivars included “California Wonder” followed by “Yolo Wonder”. “Kaka F1” was proved most salt sensitive and all others were moderately salt tolerant.