ASSESSMENT OF THE CHROMIUM TOLERANCE LEVEL OF CAPSICUM ANNUUM L. UNDER BIOTIC STRESS OF SCLEROTIUM ROLFSII

Abstract

Crosstalk between metal ions and fungal pathogens induces negative effect on growth of sensitive plants. The present study was designed to assess effect of the chromium (VI) stress on germination, seedlings growth and metal accumulation in chili (Capsicum annuum L.), under biotic stress of Sclerotium rolfsii sacc. It was found that the chili seedling accumulated more chromium and
became more sensitive under combined application of S. rolfsii and Cr(VI), in comparison to the individual stress of either pathogen or metal. Inhibitory effect of Cr(VI) was increased at higher concentrations. Roots exhibited the highest sensitivity against the given stresses. The findings of this study are alarming for future evaluation of plant health risk associated with cultivation of edible plants in soil contaminated with fungal pathogens and toxic heavy metals