Abstract

LI, G et al. Effects of plow pan on SPAD value and chloroplast ultrastructure in leaves of spring maize. Phyton (B. Aires) [online]. 2013, vol.82, n.2, pp.243-247. ISSN 1851-5657.

The aim of this study was to evaluate the impact of the plow pan on the production of spring corn. We evaluated SPAD values and chloroplast ultrastructure in premature ear leaves of spring maize at the grain-filling stage. The maize plants were grown in simulated plow pan or simulated subsoiling treatments. Plants in the simulated plow pan treatment showed irreversible damage to chloroplasts, including changes in chloroplast shape, disintegration and rupture of chloroplast membranes, and blurriness and cloudiness of grana lamellae. The chlorophyll content decreased, which is a typical characteristic of senescence. Subsoiling cultivation practices resulted in chloroplasts with a more stable ultrastructure in maize leaves. This extended the functional period of leaves after flowering, avoiding premature senescence of spring maize and increasing yields.

Keywords : Plow pan; Chloroplast; Spring corn; Premature senescence; Ultrastructure.

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