Effects of Different Concentrations of NaCl On Seedling Growth and Physiological Responses in FourVarieties of Zea mays L

Studies were planned to analyze the response of Zea mays L. genotypes to salt stress (0, 50, 75, 100, 125, 150 and 200 mMNaCl ) at seedling stage . Four varieties, (Conquest, Sundance, Reward and Jubliee) were used and data for seedling growth and physiological responses of 14-day old seedling grown in 1/10 strength of Long Ashton were determined. Negative response had happened in length of shoots and roots. In contrast a considerable increase was observed in the total soluble sugar , total amino acids, proline, total organic solutes and osmotic potential in response to various salt treatments . Furthermore , Sodium and chloride content significantly increased in tissues as salinity increased with a high accumulation rate in roots than the translocation to shoots. Meanwhile, anon significant increase in K level in roots. On contrary, a substantial decrease in potassium / sodium ratios in both shoots and roots was observed in all varieties. The highest accumulation of inorganic solutes however, were observed in Jublieevariety shoots and in Conquest roots. Meanwhile the highest accumulation of organic solutes were observed in Sundance variety either in shoots or roots.