Chromium Alters Iron Nutrition and Water Relations of Spinach

Spinach (Spinacea oleracea L. cv. 'Banarasi'), known to be responsive to potentially toxic elements, was investigated for chromium (Cr6 +) effect on iron metabolism and water relations. After 40 days growth in sand culture, a set of plants was supplied with 100 and 400 M Cr6 + (potassium dichromate, K2Cr2O7), superimposed over the complete nutrient solution (control). Excess Cr6 + produced visual symptoms of toxicity and increased accumulation of Cr, more in roots than in leaves. Decreased concentration of chlorophylls and the activities of heme enzymes, catalase and peroxidase in excess Cr6 + may suggest interference of Cr in iron metabolism of plants. These changes associated with decrease in iron (Fe) accumulation in Cr6 + treated plants, indicate that by reducing absorption of Fe, Cr6 + impairs the Fe requiring steps of chlorophyll and heme biosynthesis. In spite of lower water saturation deficit, the leaves of Cr6 + treated plants showed a decrease in leaf water potential, associated with increase in diffusive resistance and lowering of transpiration rate along with proline accumulation indicates water stress. The changes observed in water stress parameters in Cr6 + treated plants indicate that excess supply of Cr6 + reduces the physiological availability of water.