IMPACT OF CADMIUM-ZINC INTERACTIONS ON METAL UPTAKE, TRANSLOCATION AND YIELD IN PIGEONPEA GENOTYPES COLONIZED BY ARBUSCULAR MYCORRHIZAL FUNGI

Abstract

Cadmium (Cd) and zinc (Zn) are commonly associated with each other due to their similar geochemical behavior. Cadmium is a potentially toxic metal and Zn plays important role in counteracting Cd toxicity in plants. Arbuscular mycorrhizal (AM) fungi are known to be associated with plant metal tolerance. Aim of the study was to analyze Cd and Zn uptake and translocation and their impact on yield components in pigeonpea [Cajanus cajan (L.) Millsp.] genotypes under single and combined applications with and without Glomus mosseae. Cadmium and Zn contents varied greatly (roots > shoots > seeds). Yield parameters (number of flowers, seed weight, harvest index) were impaired with increasing Cd and Zn levels although Cd caused more reductions. ‘Sel 85N’ had lower metal accumulation and higher yield than ‘P792’. Combination of Cd₂₅+Zn₁₀₀₀ was most effective in decreasing Cd uptake and increasing yield. Association with G. mosseae was significantly beneficial in ameliorating metal toxicity.

Keywords:

• Cajanus cajan
• genotypes
• Glomus mosseae
• metal distribution
• translocation
• cadmium
• zinc
• yield

ACKNOWLEDGMENT

The authors are deeply grateful to University Grants Commission (UGC), New Delhi, India for providing the financial support required for undertaking this research.