We hypothesized that sub-optimal root zone temperature (RZT) will cause a reduction in the bioactive components contents, adversely affect PS II and hinder uptake/partitioning of mineral elements in the ‘‘Light Green Variant’’ of the African snake tomato (Trichosanthes cucumerina L.). Three RZT temperatures (20, 25 and 30℃) were evaluated in a digitally controlled growth chamber. Results showed that for all the mineral nutrients analyzed (Ca, Mg, P, K, Fe and Mn), the amounts absorbed by the plant increase as RZT increases with each nutrient displaying different characteristics with respect to the quantity partitioned into root, stem and leaf at the different RZT. At sub-optimal RZT (20℃), significantly higher amounts of Ca and K were found in the root, whereas at normal RZT (25 and 30℃) higher amounts of Ca were recorded in the stem, and about 50% of the amounts in the stem were found in the leaves. For all the RZT, the amounts of Mg in the leaves were significantly higher than in the root and stem, while the amounts in the stems were also significantly higher than the amounts in the roots. At normal RZT (25 and 30℃) almost equal amounts of P were present in the root, stem and leaf. The amounts of phenolics, ascorbic acid, chlorophyll a and b and total chlorophyll increase as the RZT increases. Photosystem analyses showed that at 30℃ the Fv/Fm (relative photochemical efficiency) was 0.76, while at 20 and 25℃ the values were 0.35 and 0.60, respectively. The Fv/Fm value (0.35) obtained at 20℃ confirmed the adverse effects of suboptimal RZT on the photosystem II (PS II). Photosynthetic measurements showed that as the RZT increased, A (net photosynthetic efficiency), E (transpiration rate), Ci (intercellular carbon dioxide concentration) and g1 (stomata conductance) also increased. We postulate that the higher E and g1 at high RZT have a great physiological implication on plant performance, because transpiration cooling would be improved, especially during the summer; but the lost water must be complemented by adequate irrigation. The totality of the results confirm our hypothesis that sub-optimal RZT will cause a reduction in the bioactive components contents, adversely affect PS II and hinder uptake/partitioning of mineral elements in T. cucumerina.
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