Physiological Aspects of Melon (Cucumis meloL.) as a Function of Salinity

This study evaluated the effect of saline water irrigation (4.5 dS m(-1)) on growth, gas exchange and mineral nutrient content in eight melon accessions and two cultivars classified as tolerant (Sancho) and susceptible (Caribbean Gold) to salinity. Results showed saline water irrigation reduced stomatal conductance, which consequently decreased transpiration and photosynthesis. Also, plants became more efficient in water use under salinity and increased K+/Na(+)in leaves as a mechanism to mitigate the ionic stress caused by Na(+)and Cl-. Moreover, the accessions responded differently from cultivars to saline water irrigation. However, we found accessions more efficient in water use, with more K+/Na(+)content and higher photosynthesis rate than Sancho under saline and non-saline water irrigation. Due to these traits, these accessions were more productive than Sancho under salinity.

Automated summary

The study evaluated the effects of saline water irrigation on growth, gas exchange, and mineral nutrient content in different melon accessions and cultivars. Results showed variations in response to salinity among materials, with some accessions demonstrating better performance under saline conditions.