Accumulation and Distribution of Iron, Zinc and Manganese Ions in Pumpkin (Cucurbita Spp.) and Gourd (Lagenaria Siceraria) Accessions Subjected To Drought Stress

Abstract

The aim of this study was to observe the distribution of ions in different organs of pumpkin and gourd accessions commonly grown in Turkey, in order to better assess drought stress-tolerance mechanisms. Seedlings of 38 accessions of pumpkin (Cucurbita spp.) and gourd (Lagenaria siceraria) were cultured in cups containing Hoagland's nutrient solution in a controlled climate chamber. To simulate drought stress, 15% polyethylene glycol (PEG6000), equivalent to -0.60 Mpa of osmotic potential, was added to the nutrient solution. Following its application, the accumulation and distribution of iron (Fe), zinc (Zn), and manganese (Mn) ions in the roots, shoots, and leaves of the seedlings were observed using atomic absorption spectrometry (AAS) flame photometry. Ion accumulation increased in plants subjected to drought stress in comparison to the control plants. The greatest increase occurred in the leaves.