Response of coriander (Coriandrum sativum L.) to waterlogging

Under waterlogging condition, behaviour of Coriandrum sativum L. var. Indoori revealed a significant increase in total soluble sugars and anthocyanins in the leaves which was >100% for four days and >200% for eight days waterlogging. Accumulation of ascorbic acid at eight days waterlogging condition was noticeable. A marked enhancement in reducing sugars and free amino acids (>75%) was also evident in the waterlogged plants. On the contrary total chlorophylls, carotenoids and flavonoids declined by about 50% but relative water content, leaf water potential and chlorophyll stability index followed a negligible reduction during stress. Lipid peroxidation (MDA content), superoxide dismutase activity and proline accumulation enhanced with a parallel decline in proline oxidase activity. After relieving the stress, relative water content and leaf water potential remained unchanged but proline and ascorbic acid content decreased. Similarly, proline oxidase, superoxide dismutase activities also recovered and MDA content declined. Total chlorophylls enhanced by 27–35%. These results indicated that the variety is sensitive and susceptible to waterlogging. Ascorbic acid and anthocyanins might function as antioxidant to face oxidative stress while total sugars, proline and free amino acids, as osmoprotectants. Four days waterlogging did not cause much damage to the crop but at eight days waterlogging stress physiological alterations were seen.