2025, Vol. 8, Issue 1, Part D

author(s)
Sheeba A, Yogameenakshi P, Chelvi Ramessh, Venudevan B, Kavimani M and Karthika K

abstract
Black gram is an important grain legume grown for its high protein content. Salinity is the major abiotic stress that adversely affects the yield of black gram. Ability to withstand salt stress varies among different genotypes. In the present study, twelve black gram genotypes were screened in the laboratory under two different salt concentrations viz.,100 mM and 150 mM NaCl at the Department of Plant Breeding and Genetics, Agricultural College and Research Institute, Madurai, Tamil Nadu during 2022. Germination and seedling growth parameters such as germination percentage, shoot length, root length, fresh and dry weight of the seedlings, vigour index and salt tolerant index were studied on 7^th day. Germination percentage was significantly reduced at 150 mM when compared to 100 mM and control. Seedling growth in terms of shoot and root length was significantly retarded with increase in salt concentration. The difference in shoot length in 150mM to control was 2.78 cm and the reduction in shoot length in higher concentration is half than that of control. The grand mean of root length was 2.19 cm at 100mM and this was shorter than control (2.93 cm) and the root length was drastically reduced at 150 mM (1.73cm). Vigour Index was significantly lower in 150mM (120.16) than 100 mM (249.26) and control (456.86). Salt Tolerance Index followed the same trend. Among the genotypes screened, VBN 11 and CO 5 were adjudged as salt tolerant genotypes in view of shoot length, fresh weight, dry weight and Vigour Index in the former and germination %, dry weight, Vigour Index and Salt Tolerant Index in the latter. Hence, VBN 11 and CO 5 could be utilized as donors in the evolution of salt tolerant black gram varieties.