Physiological and morphological responses of three rice varieties under NaCl stress

¹ Biotechnology Study Program, Department of Biology,Faculty of Sciences and Data Analytics, Institut Teknologi Sepuluh Nopember, Jawa Timur, Indonesia
² Department of Plant Science and Biotechnology, University of Jos, Plateau State, Nigeria

^* Corresponding author: trionobsaputro@gmail.com

Abstract

Salt stress is a critical abiotic factor that adversely affects rice (Oryza sativa L.) growth and development, leading to significant yield reductions. This study investigates the physiological responses of three tolerant rice varieties—F478, INPARI35, and SIAK RAYA—under 100 mM NaCl stress. Several parameters were measured, including plant height, root length, shoot fresh weight, root fresh weight, shoot dry weight, and root dry weight, and Chlorophylls were measured at intervals of 0, 3, and 6 days after salt exposure. Results indicate that salt stress significantly impairs growth parameters across all varieties, with varying degrees of tolerance observed. Notably, plant height and root length exhibited a marked decline under stress conditions. The correlation analysis revealed intricate interrelationships between growth traits under salt stress. The correlation matrix visualized these relationships, highlighting both positive and negative associations among traits. For instance, root length has almost negative correlation with all other parameters. Out of three rice varieties, Inpari35 demonstrated enhanced resilience, maintaining higher growth rates and biomass under stress conditions. Taken together, identifying salt-tolerant rice varieties will be crucial for mitigating the impacts of salinity on crop productivity and ensuring food security in saline-prone regions.