Insights into Physiological Responses of the HalophyteSuaeda fruticosato Simultaneous Salinity and Iron Deficiency

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Physiological responses of the halophyteSuaeda fruticosacultivated under combined effects of salinity and iron deficiency were addressed. Plants were grown hydroponically for one month with a complete nutrient solution containing iron (Fe) of 0 or 30 μM, without or with salinity (100 and 400 mM NaCl). Growth parameters, chlorophyll concentration, mineral status, Fe(III) chelate reductase (FCR) activity and the acidification capacity were evaluated. Fe deficiency restricted significantly the plant biomass production as well as Fe uptake. Interestingly, the exposure to salinity mitigated the impact of Fe shortage on the plant growth whereas the impacts of salinity and Fe deficiency were not additive with respect to the plant Fe status. Salinity had no effect on the root proton release except a slight reduction at 400 mM and the FCR activity. Interestingly, both Fe absorption and use efficiencies were significantly higher in salt‐treated plants under optimal Fe supply.