Salinity index in relation to leaf chlorophyll content and enzyme activities in barley under saline conditions

Soil salinity levels of 10 and 15 dSm⁻¹ reduced chlorophyll content and activities of nitrate reductase, catalase and peroxidase in leaves of five barley varieties. The varieties K-204 and Azad showed better adaptability under moderate saline conditions while variety K-141 appeared to be susceptible. Correlation studies further revealed that decrease in barley grain yield under salinity is associated with low nitrate reductase, catalase and peroxidase activity and reduced chlorophyll content in the leaves at various growth stages.