Interpreting root architectural and physiological responses to alkaline pH Stress in onion (Allium cepa L.)

Köker Y., Ulaş F.

12th International Agriculture Congress, Kayseri, Türkiye, 21 - 23 Ekim 2026, ss.1, (Özet Bildiri)

  • Yayın Türü: Bildiri / Özet Bildiri
  • Basıldığı Şehir: Kayseri
  • Basıldığı Ülke: Türkiye
  • Sayfa Sayıları: ss.1
  • Erciyes Üniversitesi Adresli: Evet

Özet

The aim of the study was to determine the root morphological and physiological responses of two onion genotypes to high pH stress under hydroponic conditions. The experiment was carried out in a controlled climate chamber (25/22 °C day/night temp. 60-80% rh., 16/8 h of light/dark period). Two onion genotypes (Sarı Yalova and Mor) were studied as plant material and grown onto 8 L continuously aerated pots containing nutrient solution at two different pH levels (8.5 and 6.5). The experiment was set as a completely randomized block design with three replications. The root fresh and dry weight, total root length (TRL), root volume (RV), average root diameter (ARD) and root electrolyte leakage (EL) were determined in this study. The outcomes showed that, electrolyte leakage, root fresh and dry weight, root volume, average root diameter, and root length of onion plants were considerably (p<0.001) affected by high pH under hydroponic conditions. The onion genotypes presented contrasting root responses to alkaline pH stress. The onion genotype of Sarı Yalova maintained greater root fresh and dry weights and showed decreased EL, supplemented by increases in TRL, RV, and ARD under high-pH conditions. Conversely, the onion genotype of Mor represented enhanced EL and decreases in TRL and RV. In conclusion, these results showed that root morphological and physiological characters are crucial mechanisms of genotype-dependent responses to alkaline pH stress, with Sarı Yalova exhibiting better capability to sustain root extension under stress conditions. This research was funded by TÜBİTAK 2209-A (Project code: TBTK-0161-3717).