Augmentative Role of Arbuscular Mycorrhizal Fungi, Piriformospora indica, and Plant Growth-Promoting Bacteria in Mitigating Salinity Stress in Maize (Zea mays L.)

Chitosan Regulates the Root Architecture System, Photosynthetic Characteristics and Antioxidant System Contributing to Salt Tolerance in Maize Seedling

“…In this study, salt stress induced a significantly detrimental effect on the photosynthesis of maize seedlings, such as Pn, Gs, Ci and Tr (Figure 4). Similar results have been reported in maize [8,49], creeping bentgrass [30], and tomato [57]. However, these characteristics were enhanced through CTS application (Figure 4).…”

“…In the present study, the maize height and main root length were significantly inhibited, while the dry weight of the shoot and root were both reduced and the absorption of Na was increased under salt stress (p < 0.05) (Figures 1 and 3, Table 1). Previous studies reported that salt stress inhibited photosynthesis and nutrient absorption, resulting in less biomass accumulation and shorter shoot and root length of maize seedlings due to the higher Na uptake [8,[49][50][51]. Chitosan could improve the absorption and transport of mineral nutrients, as well as photosynthesis, thereby increasing plant growth and height [10,22,52].…”

“…The Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) reported that more than 6% of total land area and a minimum of 20% of irrigated land globally are subjected to salt-related issues [3,4]. Additionally, salt has detrimental effects on seed germination, photosynthetic performance, ion homeostasis, and crop yield [3], which can be attributed to salt-induced oxidative stress, destruction of chloroplast structure, and inhibition of key metabolic pathways [5][6][7][8]. With the increasing degradation of arable land and the escalating frequency of extreme weather events, it has become imperative to comprehend and mitigate the adverse effects of salt stress on crops [9].…”