T.A. Segatto, I.R. Carvalho, W.J.A. Bandeira, L.C. Pradebon, M.V. Loro, J.P. Sangiovo
Published December 30, 2024
Genet. Mol. Res. 23 (4): gmr2316
DOI http://dx.doi.org/10.4238/gmr2316

About the Authors
T.A. Segatto, I.R. Carvalho, W.J.A. Bandeira, L.C. Pradebon, M.V. Loro, J.P. Sangiovo

Corresponding author:
Ivan Ricardo Carvalho
E-mail: carvalho.irc@gmail.com

ABSTRACT

Nutritional disorders can lead to a decline in plant growth due to changes in nutritional efficiency. The present study aimed to evaluate the morphological development of corn plants grown in nutrient solutions with excess and deficit of macro and micronutrients. We used 30 scenarios with different combinations of nutrient presence and absence to simulate nutrient deficits and excesses. Incandescent and fluorescent lamps connected to a timer were used to simulate the hours of light and dark, in order to meet the demand for light for the photosynthesis process of the plants. The ambient temperature was controlled, remaining close to 30°C. The laboratory remained closed in order to prevent the entry of insects and pathogens. The nutrient solutions were replaced every 15 days, in addition to replacing the water lost in the process of evapotranspiration of the plants. Linear correlation analysis between pairs of characters, cluster analysis using Euclidean distance and principal component analysis were carried out. Excess aluminum had an influence on the change in the total biomass produced and the height of the corn plants. Sulfur, copper and zinc caused changes in the root system. Excess nitrogen and sulfur caused necrosis and yellowing of the leaves. Magnesium deficiency caused curling and chlorosis of the leaves. Nitrogen deficiency promoted lower values of root length, plant height and shoot green weight.

Key words: Zea mays; Nutrition; Correlation, Eucliadian distance.