Comparative study of cowpea genotypes under salinity stress with Arbuscular Mycorrhizal Fungi

Abstract

The aim of present study was to examine the effect of arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF) on the morphological and biochemical attributes in cowpea (Vigna unguiculata [L.] Walp.) subjected to salt stress. Salt stress (0.25%, 0.35% and 0.45% NaCl) reduced germination, shoot length, no. of leaves and biomass in cowpea leaves. AMF ameliorated the negative impact of salinity on the growth parameters studied. The activity of antioxidant enzymes such as superoxide dismutase (SOD) and total soluble protein (TSP) enhanced under salt stress and AMF inoculation further enhanced their activity, thus strengthening the plant’s defense system. AMF-inoculated plants providing efficient protection against salt stress. AMF also increased uptake of mineral elements of plant. The present study shows that AMF possesses the potential to enhance salt tolerance of cowpea.