High Salinity Stunts Potato Growth, Threatening Food Security Worldwide
The study looked at how different levels of salt stress affect the growth, yield, and proline accumulation in 18 potato varieties. They grew the potatoes in soil and water with varying salt levels and measured various plant characteristics. The results showed that some potato varieties were more resistant to high salt levels, while others were more sensitive. Overall, the amount of proline in the plants increased with higher salt levels, especially in varieties with good above-ground growth. The study suggests that for assessing salt resistance in potatoes, focusing on relative yield reduction rather than above-ground growth may be more practical. Certain varieties like 'Sumi', 'Croda', 'Romana', and 'Dubaek' show promise for breeding salt-resistant potatoes and sustaining potato production in salt-affected areas.