Influence of chromium on growth and cell division of sugarcane

Effect of chromium (VI) at graded concentrations (1, 2, 20, 40, and 80 ppm Cr) was studied on growth, biochemcial and cytological parameters of sugarcane (Saccharum sp. hybrid cv. CoLk 8102) under soil tray culture conditions. Higher chromium concentrations inhibited bud germination and induced chlorosis of young emerging settling which turned to necrotic at later stages. Biochemical studies revealed a decline in specific activity of catalase and increase in reducing sugar content in settlings supplied with chromium. Root growth was more affected than shoot growth by Cr. There was decrease in mitotic index and a reduction of more than 90% in metaphase and anaphase at 80 ppm Cr dosage. Higher dosages were more cytotoxic than lower dosages of Cr.