The effect of salinity on the yield and composition of Diplachne fusca (Kallar grass)

Abstract. Aspects of the response of Kallar grass ( Diplachne fusca ) to root salinity have been studied. Field observation on the high level of tolerance of this species have been mirrored in pot trials and a 50% yield (dry matter) was obtained at ECe 22.3. While salt stress led to Na and Cl uptake, most of these ions appeared to be secreted selectively from the leaves. The shoot K⁺ content on a tissue water basis remained unaffected by salt stress and the shoot tissue had a high K⁺ selectivity. Osmotic adaptation was mainly brought about by tissue dehydration and not net salt accumulation although the compatible solute glycinebetaine was accumulated in fairly high concentrations.
The organic and inorganic chemical composition of the shoots, including the trace elements Zn, Fe, Cu and Mn, is such as to make this species a highly promising plant for the exploitation of saline soils which might otherwise not be amenable to agriculture use.