Biology ETDs

Publication Date

12-8-1977

Abstract

Laboratory studies were conducted to determine effects of salts, metals, and their interactions on the germination and emergence of fourwing saltbush [Atriplex canescens (Pursh.) Nutt.] and alkali sacaton (Sporobolus airoides Torr.). These studies, coupled with soil evaluations, should allow one to predict and possibly alleviate germination and emergence inhibition of these two species due to excessive soil salts and metals. Fourwing saltbush germination and emergence is significantly greater with osmotic stress <-3 bars imposed by inorganic salts (NaCl, Na2SO4, MgCl2, MgSO4, or CaCl2) than by polyethylene glycol (PEG) (P <.05). Alkali sacaton germination and emergence is significantly better with osmotic stress <-3 bars imposed by NaCl, Na2SO4, or CaCl2 than by MgCl2, MgSO4, or PEG {P <.05). Data were summarized which enables prediction of percentage germination and emergence of these two species in substrates containing combinations of salts. Good germination and emergence of fourwing saltbush was observed in up to 900 ppm Zn or 150 ppm Cu, and good germination with appreciable emergence in up to 50 ppm B or 30 ppm Se. Good germination and emergence of alkali sacaton was observed in up to 75 ppm Zn, 15 ppm Cu, or 5 ppm Se, with good germination and appreciable emergence in up to 25 ppm B. Interactions of toxic concentrations of these metals combined with salts were investigated. Emergence inhibition of both species caused by 50 or 100 ppm B or 30 ppm Cu was alleviated by addition of low concentrations of salt tested. Emergence inhibition of both species with 30 ppm Se was somewhat reduced by Cl salts of Ca or Mg. The steady state diffusion gradient germination chamber developed will greatly simplify the study of the effects of various concentrations of water soluble compounds on germination. The chamber will also facilitate study of the interaction of two water soluble compounds on seed germination.

Language

English

Document Type

Thesis

Degree Name

Biology

Level of Degree

Masters

Department Name

UNM Biology Department

First Committee Member (Chair)

Gordon V. Johnson

Second Committee Member

James R. Gosz

Third Committee Member

Earl F. Aldon

Fourth Committee Member

Rex G. Cates

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