Effects of Nitrogen Limitation on Antioxidant Enzymes, Chlorophyll Content and Grain Yield of Rice Genotypes

Abstract

Nitrogen is one of the important elements for rice production. Nitrogen utilization was rapidly increased from the time of green revolution, which resulted in environmental hazards. Increasing rice yield with optimized usage of fertilizers has become important for sustainable agriculture. A field study was conducted to study the effects of nitrogen limitation on antioxidant enzymes, chlorophyll content and yield of four rice genotypes. Nitrogen limitation has increased the antioxidant activity and membrane lipid peroxidation of the studied genotypes and reduced leaf chlorophyll, yield components and nitrogen uptake. Grain yield and total dry matter were positively associated with plant nitrogen uptake under both the nitrogen levels. Among the studied genotypes, narendradhan 359 showed relatively higher antioxidant activities, leaf thickness, higher grain yield, while pooja showed low yields under due to limited N conditions with lower grain yields efficiency. Among the studied genotypes narendradhan 359 could be chosen for further yield increment under limited nitrogen conditions.