Changes in growth and metabolic activity in seedlings of lentil (Lens culinaris Medic) genotypes during salt stress

The effect of salinity on growth, sugar metabolism and enzyme activities were studied in four lentil genotypes viz., L 145-4, L 187-3 (Tolerant), PL 406, Arun (susceptible). Shoot dry weight, total sugar and amylase activity decreased, whereas starch content increased with rise in salt concentration levels. Salt stress stimulated the catalase activity in lentil genotypes. Peroxidase activity, was higher in tolerant genotypes and lower in susceptible genotypes with rise in salinity levels. The changes in enzyme activities and their possible roles in salt tolerance of Lens culinaris Medic have been discussed.