Effect of simulated waterlogging on the levels of amino acids in groundnut at the time of sowing

The changes in the levels of amino acids and their loss as leachates in groundnut seed during different intervals of waterlogging were studied. Nineteen amino acids were identified in seed and leachates. New amino acids were synthesized at 48, 72 and 96 h of waterlogging in addition to those of the control. Asparagine, β-alanine, cysteine, cystine, isoleucine, lysine, γ-methylene glutamine, phenylalanine, proline, tyrosine and tryptophan in the seed and asparagine, cysteine, phenylalanine, tryptophan and valine in the leachates were accumulated from 24 to 96 h of waterlogging. In contrast, glutamine in the seed and glutamic acid and leucine in the leachates were decreased by waterlogging. The total contents of amino acids were increased by 96 h of waterlogging in both seed and leachates as compared to their levels in the control. The total amino acid quantities were higher in the seed than those of the leachates. It is inferred that with increased time of waterlogging there is increased fresh synthesis and accumulation of amino acids which appears to be an integral part of the seedling establishment, serving as an excellent strategy to overcome unfavourable or harmful conditions.