Induction of Betalain Pigmentation in Hairy Roots of Red Beet under Different Radiation Sources

The effect of different radiation sources - blue (B), red (R), R plus B (RB), B plus far red (BFr), R plus far red (RFr) - was tested on the growth of hairy roots and betalain accumulation in Beta vulgaris L. (red beet). Light emitting diodes were used as radiation sources. The growth of hairy roots under different radiation treatments depended on radiation quality. Highest biomass accumulation was under the BFr treatment. BFr treatment efficiently induced betalain pigmentation in hairy roots. Total sugar and sucrose contents of hairy roots were also greater in this treatment. Thus, the betalain pigmentation in the cultured hairy roots can be influenced by radiation quality and BFr is most suitable for accumulation of betalains.