Comparative ionomics and growth factors alteration in Lotus corniculatus under salt stress.

In order to understand the response of Lotus corniculatus to salt stress, ions content and some growth factors were analyzed in three varieties of this plant, namely, Ardebil, Karaj, and Jolfa. Lotus corniculatus plants were exposed to 0, 50, 100, and 150 mM NaCl in hydroponic condition. The amounts of anions (Cl-and NO3-) and cations (K+ and Na+) in leaves as well as shoot and root dry weights, stem and root length, leaf area, and number of leaves were analyzed. The amount of Na+ and Cl- significantly increased in all varieties. However, with an increase in NaCl concentration, K+ and No3- content decreased significantly in all varieties (p<0.05). Growth factors (root and shoot length and weight, leaf area, and leaf number) declined significantly with increasing NaCl concentration. Considering alterations in growth factors and ions content, it seems that "Jolfa" and "karaj" have a higher capacity to tolerate salt stress particularly in100 and 150 mM NaCl compared to "Ardebil".