Influence of UV-B supplemental radiation on growth and pigment content in Suaeda maritima L.

In a field experiment with a mangrove species Suaeda maritima L. grown unde r ambient and supplementary UV-B radiation corresponding to 20% ozone deple tion, changes in growth and contents of photosynthetic and UV-absorbing pig ments were determined. Supplemental UV-B irradiation for 9 d significantly reduced the growth and concentration of photosynthetic pigments. However, a nthocyanin and flavonoid contents were significantly increased in UV-treate d plants and which could be reduce the UV-B penetration and damage to the u nderlying tissues.