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Doctoral Thesis | Biological Sciences | India | Volume 12 Issue 12, December 2023

Exposure of Rauvolfia Tetraphylla. L to Different Levels of Fluoride during the Germination and Seedling Growth Stages

Shankar T.

Abstract: Rauvolfia tetraphylla L., a medicinal plant with diverse pharmacological properties, plays a crucial role in traditional medicine. This study investigates the effects of fluoride exposure on the germination and seedling growth stages of R. tetraphylla. Seeds were exposed to various fluoride concentrations (0.0, 0.2, 0.5, 1.0, and 5.0 mg/L sodium fluoride). Germinating seeds were collected at 24 - , 48 - , and 72 - hours post - fluoride treatment to assess their impact on the early developmental stages of the plant. Germination rates, seedling morphology, and biochemical parameters were evaluated to understand R. tetraphylla responses to fluoride stress. Results revealed a concentration - dependent reduction in germination rates, with higher concentrations causing delayed and inhibited germination. Additionally, seedling growth parameters, including shoot and root lengths, were significantly affected by fluoride, showing dose - dependent decreases. Biochemical analyses demonstrated alterations in enzymatic activities and stress - related metabolites, suggesting that R. tetraphylla activates define mechanisms to cope with fluoride - induced stress. Oxidative stress markers, such as reactive oxygen species (ROS) and lipid peroxidation, were elevated under fluoride exposure, indicating potential cellular damage. This study provides comprehensive insights into the adverse effects of fluoride on the germination and early seedling growth stages of R. tetraphylla. Understanding the plant's response to fluoride stress is crucial for sustainable cultivation and conservation efforts, especially in regions where fluoride contamination may threaten the natural growth of this important medicinal plant. Application of different concentrations of NaF during germination induced more severe effects than during the seedling stage, resulting in high levels of fluoride (5.0 mg/L) in acid soils, reducing crop yield due to increased aluminum and decreased phosphorus uptake. Further research is needed to explore the molecular mechanisms underlying fluoride - induced stress responses in R. tetraphylla, facilitating the development of strategies to mitigate fluoride - related impacts on this valuable species.

Keywords: Fluoride, Sunflower, SOD, GSH. lipid peroxidation, germination, and seedlings

Edition: Volume 12 Issue 12, December 2023,

Pages: 1113 - 1117